The Atlantean Chronicles Ii Shadow's Of Enlightenment e3n52

THE ATLANTEAN CHRONICLES BOOK II: SHADOW’S OF ENLIGHTENMENT By Kip Hartzell and Thomas DeHay Published by Kip Hartzell and Thomas DeHay at Smashwords Copyright 2016 Kip Hartzell/Thomas DeHay

Smashwords Edition

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The Atlantean Chronicles Book II: Shadow’s of Enlightenment

Chapter One: Reunion Another tremor shook the cave, as rocks began to fall. Jay was on his back wiping blood away from a superficial head wound when a strong hand reached down and picked him up. A man, resembling his Grandfather, swished away rocks like a person swatting away flies. He half carried, half dragged Jay through the bright doorway, where, as soon as they entered, all was calm. The doors shut quietly to a massive room. Jay felt the coolness of the smooth, polished floor on his face. A group of shadowy people stood over him. He couldn’t make out what they were saying over the ringing in his ears. He managed to roll over. A large shadowy creature loomed large in his view, and suddenly backed away. His vision started to clear and the ringing subsided. Again, a person much like his Grandfather knelt beside him. “How is he, Rhe-A?” The Grandfather figure asked. The person he was talking to, was holding a device over him. “Slight concussion, minor lacerations.” She stood up. “He’ll survive, so, now should I inject the memory inhibitors?” “No, not yet.” “John, you know we don’t bring Cousins in because of their limited intelligence and inability to accept things outside their norms. Madness ensues and creates a whole other round of problems. You’re going to need Council approval.” “I know the rules. It’s just...I think he’s here for a reason. How did he know where to find us? There’s something more here.” “You act like you know him?” Rhe-A asked, as she moved closer to him. She hesitated in recognition. “I do, I think, I mean, he called me Gramps. I believe that’s a term of endearment. I also feel, I know him.” “Hello, I’m right here,” Jay said, rolling over and rising to his knees. He wiped blood and dirt away from his sun-tanned face. He pushed his sandy colored hair

out of his eyes. “What’s going on?” He stood up and became dizzy. John steadied him. Rhe-A reached over with an injector and stuck it to his neck for a second. He immediately felt better, and his head cleared. “Gramps, you look so...young.” John looked at him oddly. His hair had been graying for centuries. They knew they were no longer immortal, and the longer they stayed out of the Temporal Storage Device, the more they aged. Its accumulative affect was evident on his middle-aged face. Without the high concentration of agoam crystals, they were all doomed to grow old and die, eventually. “I’m sorry, who are you?” Jay felt as though he had been stabbed in the heart. Rhe-A moved her handheld over Jay. “Sub-DNA confirms he’s related to you. He’s from the United States.” “Hey, stop talking as if I’m not here. Who are you people?” “Rhe-A looked at him as if acknowledging his existence for the first time. “We are Atlanteans.” Jay waited for the punchline. They all looked serious. “Bullshit.” He heard footsteps behind him, he turned to see the biggest bipedal creature he had ever seen. The bull-man looked down at him with infinite black eyes. “What an odd expression.” Jay stumbled backward into a very tall Atlantean woman, pale, long black hair, the bluest eyes he had ever seen, he was drowning in them, then she smiled showing two large fangs. “Ahg,” he screamed, and ran to the center of the circle of people and darted around like a cornered animal. “I’m losing my mind,” Jay said as he stumbled around, “Yah, I hit my head, hard, or I’m simply dead, no, I’m dying of hypoxia. Yah, that’s it. I need to wake up and get out of this cave.” He felt a gentle touch

on his shoulder, he quickly turned. “Grandma!” He hugged Athene-A tightly. “Please say you know who I am.” He pulled away. “Why are you so young?” “I’m actually quite old, by your standards.” “You know me? Right?” He looked at John, then back at Athene-A. “I don’t feel so good.” He leaned down and put his hands on his knees. Rhe-A moved toward him with an injector. “Shall I ister the memory inhibitors, now.” John stepped between them. “No, there has got to be a reason he is here. I think we should investigate.” “Your name is...Jay,” Athene-A said, slowly studying his face. “I used to call you...JJ.” John looked at the two. “Your name is John Jay Rodgers...right?” “Yes, yes, you me.” “Only fragments, dreams.” Rhe-A ran her handheld over Jay. “The sub-DNA structure is uncannily close to both of you. I would say he’s related in some cosmic crazy way. If we’re going to keep him, let’s go to the infirmary to continue this family reunion.” John and Athene-A gently took him by the arm and guided him away. Jay’s head and eyes darted around. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing, the difference, his Grandparents were his size, but most everyone around towered over them. He recognized all manner of mythical creatures, from Minotaur to Centaur. Paintings on the walls showed spacescapes so real he thought he might fall into space. Spaceships battling each other, all types of creatures from Earth’s ed. Statues of Greek and Roman gods, Architecture was that of ancient Greece. He began to compose himself and realized this was not his imagination. His imagination wasn’t this good. The door to the infirmary was open when he walked in behind Rhe-A, and in front of John and Athene-A. Jay’s vision was clearer, now, and he tried to focus on one thing at a time. He focused on how tall Rhe-A was, with her gray deep

shimmering jump suit that could as a tight scuba outfit. Rhe-A tapped on a table and said, “Sit here, we’ll have you checked out in a second.” Jay looked at the high table and hesitated. “Do you need some help?” Rhe-A asked, in a condescending way. “No, I can do it,” Jay blurted back, and hopped on the table, not quit as elegantly as he had wanted. “If there’s one constant in the universe, it’s the male ego. Now, be still.” Jay was trying to shake out the cobwebs when he stopped and studied Rhe-A. “I know you, but...younger, and blonde. Rhea Wilkenson!” “Rhe-A, you knew us in our external dissociated form?” “Apparently, you don’t read reports, either. I wasn’t absolutely positive until I finished my scan, but, yes, I was there at the end.” “How did you know?” “The computers are tied into the primitive world network; it’s designed to look for external dissociated travelers. As an experiment, I tracked you for a couple of years. When you got sick, it afforded me the opportunity to examine you up close.” “Was it you who extended my life?” “Yes.” “Why?” “It seemed to me that you had...unfinished business.” “Did you know me?” Athene-A asked. “No, you had long ed, before I became aware of John’s existence. Only now do I realize who you were. Although, I should have deduced it. You two

seemingly, travel in pairs. I have yet to ascertain why.” “Another mystery,” John said, as he looked at Athene-A, thinking he might know the answer. Perhaps, love was a force that could transcend time and space, or even death. Jay sat there in silence, and within ten seconds, Rhe-A knew everything about his physiology. She reached over and gave him another shot. “I’m not going to forget, am I?” “Not yet, but we do need a Council meeting.” “He is integral to the past and future,” Pandor-A said, in her Inquisitor voice. Jay saw another, younger looking, tall dark-haired woman in the doorway. She was wearing much the same type of outfit. “How?” John asked. “They don’t know, exactly, but it seems he holds some vital information, maybe subconsciously,” Pandor-A said, in her own voice. “I can have all his memories extracted,” Rhe-A commented. “Whoa, wait a minute, you’re kidding, right?” Jay said nervously. “Yes, Jay, she’s joking. I won’t let anything happen to you,” John said, as he came around the table to face him. “We need to catch up. Rhe-A is he fit to go?” “He is now. But I’m not sure how he’ll handle the experience.” “I think he’ll be fine. Jay, come with me and I’ll show you a world you’ve only imagined, or only heard about in stories. Pan see if our guests can give us anything more than cryptic sayings. Athene-A, shall we give our Grandson a tour.” Athene-A was wiping the blood away that had clotted on his head and face. The wound was almost gone, while she combed his hair back with her fingers. Suddenly, she stopped, and wondered why she was doing this parental task. She

stepped away. “Come JJ, are you hungry?” He hopped down with no pain, and realized he was not hallucinating. When he ed by Pandor-A, he recognized her from the story. He slowed as they made eye , and then moved into the main hallway, Jay couldn’t believe the acoustics. There was no echo in such a large place, no sense of grandness, it was as if you were standing in a normal room. He couldn’t help but stare at the number of creatures that moved about with a purpose. Some, he recognized, others, he did not. “Who are you, really?” Jay asked, as he marveled at the technological heart of the complex. “We’re Atlanteans,” John answered without hesitation. Jay stopped. “Those stories my crazy Grandfather told, I mean, you told, were true?” John smiled. “I’m really not sure what I told you. The external dissociation trips are pretty rough on our memories.” “You told me of escaping a planet called, Terrah, circled a star called Solest. It went super nova and you escaped, only to be confronted by many other challenges.” “Yes, that’s true, but I’ve never known anyone to so much outside the Temporal Storage Device. This is not a coincidence. “Let’s get something to eat and sit down.” They sat in a large common area, Jay thought, looked like a cafeteria. He darted his head around to see all manner of beings staring back at him. He had always been a little self conscious about being the center of attention, even during his college party days. He was usually good at blending in with the crowd. When he sat at a table, he jumped up when the 3-D menu popped into view in front of him. John and Athene-A suppressed a laugh. Jay sat back down trying not to look any more foolish. “Just, touch what you want, or just tell it. It will adjust to all known languages,” Athene-A told him putting her hand on his to calm him down.

“Uh, thank you.” There were thousands of selections, he would never get through them all. “Uh, ham and cheese sandwich, on white bread.” “What type of cheese would you like?” a sultry female voice asked. “Uh, Swiss, please,” he said, a little louder than he intended. The table opened up and presented a dish with the desired sandwich. “Would you like something to drink?” “Uh, yes, water, cold, please.” “You don’t have to say, please. It’s a machine, kind of like an automated drive through, or a-” “Because you fought a war against machines, and you put inhibitors on them, right?” “Yes, but how did-” “I told you, Gramps told me the story of your trip here.” It was Jay’s turn to smile. He began to relax and eat as he took in his surroundings. “How did you know to come here?” John asked. “Mostly by coincidence.” “Too many synchronized random events to be coincidence.” “I see your point. All my life, I heard you tell stories, but none so vivid as near your...death.” Jay noticed the term didn’t bother John at all, as if, he had heard it before. “You talked about Atlantis, Terrah, I have the whole thing recorded. Funny, I came on this archaeological dig to get away...and now, here I am.” “How did you know to come, here?” “You gave me a set of coordinates before you...I recognized them while I was surveying the area.”

“You mean there’s going to be a dig sight, here?” “You cannot let them dig here. It’s imperative this facility remain secret.” “Yes, I do understand.” “Sorry, It’s really important. If I led you here, then you’re here for a reason. We must determine what I was trying to tell you, consciously, or subconsciously. Oh, and we are going to need that recording. There might be something on it that can help.” “So, you guys are aliens?” “We’ve been here since before countries, or written language. We could consider you alien.” John smiled. “Nevertheless, we prefer, extraterrestrial.” “You’re not going to stick a probe in my butt, are you?” “Uh, no, that’s something the Destroyers do.” “Perhaps,” Athene-A said, while thumping her finger on her chin, “we can tie our brain functions together with the facilities computer. It might be able to correlate the things we have in common. Maybe we can narrow down the list of possible reasons for this reunion.” Pandor-A unceremoniously sat down at the table and spoke without invite, “You are linked,” she said in the Inquisitor voice, “A solution must be found. Time is short.” Her eyes refocused on the group. “You know, that is really creepy,” Jay said, without thought. “You should be in my position,” she replied in her own voice. “I believe,” she continued, “that they are saying you should start at the beginning and sift through the past in order to discover the future.” “Great,” John said, “now, you’re starting to sound like them.” “I think I can narrow down some parameters that link us together, maybe it will shorten the time connected to the data link,” Athene-A said.

“Sounds good. When can we start?” “I’ll need some time to program the computer, with Pandor-A’s help.” “I probably should get back to the dig sight, before they send someone to find me.” John and Athene-A looked into space for a brief second. “We have a Council meeting. But, with this new information, I believe we will be able to proceed. Stay here, while we take care of Council business.” They got up and John waved a Minotaur over. He gave him some quick instructions, and they walked off. Jay sat there and stared at the bull man, that sat across from him. He no sooner finished his sandwich when John and Athene-A came back. “When can you get back?” Athene-A asked. “As soon as I can, without drawing suspicion.” “The Council approved all our requests, but it is imperative that this remain a secret, JJ, or else it could have dire consequences. Do you understand?” AtheneA said, as if talking to a small child. “I understand, Grandma.” Getting up from the table, he was led to the tunnel entrance. “We will be ready with the program within a day. Be cautious, JJ. The Destroyers have eyes and ears everywhere.” “I will Grandma-Athena-or how about, Anita.” “It’s alright with me, whichever you chose.” She smiled. “How do I get back?” “The same way you got here. The tunnel’s been cleared and reinforced,” John explained. Jay was excited about his discovery, even though he couldn’t tell anyone. He rifled through his backpack to find his flashlight, gathering up his surveying

equipment, he marched off into the starry darkness. John and Athene-A stood at the mouth of the tunnel and watched him go. “Can we trust him?” she asked. “I feel he has important information that we need. We need to trust him. I just hope we’re not too late.”

Chapter Two: If We Don’t Look “Where the hell have you been?” the old man screeched, as Jay walked into the well-lit camp. He dropped his equipment, with little regard for delicacy. He started toward his tent when the old man intercepted him. His tan dungarees and floppy hat lightly ruffled in the breeze. “Aren’t you going to answer me young man?” he gruffly asked. “I got lost after the earthquake, Professor Snodgrass. Now, I’m tired, and I would like to get some sleep.” The Professor eyed him suspiciously. “For someone who has always had a keen sense of direction, I’m not sure I believe you. What did you see out there?” Jay hesitated. “Nothing, just a wild goose, the one you sent me on, to get me out of your hair.” The old Professor’s jaw slacked. “That’s not true, I, I needed that information to correlate settlements.” “There’s nothing there. Since I have your attention, I’m going to need the next couple of days off.” “Out of the question. I need you to help excavate section B-214.” “I really need the time off.” “If you leave, don’t come back.” Jay mellowed, if he were fired, he wouldn’t be able to keep an eye on them in order to keep them away from Chrysalis. “Alright, but I’m going to need some time off, soon.” “We’ll see.” The old man turned toward his own tent and marched away. Jay turned and almost bumped into Shelly. The woman was almost as tall as Jay. Her blue eyes sparkled in the camp lights, while her dirty blonde hair shifted in

the light breeze. Her fare skin had been tanned by the outdoors. “Oh, hello, Shell.” He started to go around her. “Jay, are you going to quit again?” “Maybe.” “Is it because of me?” Jay smiled at her self-importance. “No, not this time.” “Look, I know you’re angry with what happened between us and Amy Mae, but I can’t change things. We were drunk, and Amy was playing grab ass with that intern from the financial backer’s family.” “Yah, I know, to make me jealous, but when she left with him...it made me crazy.” “I saw the whole thing...and I took advantage of the situation, of you.” “Yes, you did. Imagine the look on my face when I found out she didn’t sleep with him.” “But she did.” “Only after she found out .” Shelly looked away. “I’m sorry.” Jay calmed down. “Don’t worry about it, I guess deep down there wasn’t really anything there. It was inevitable. You just made it happen sooner. I see it as a life lesson. I saw what kind of person she really is.” His anger stirred. “I saw what kind of person you are. If you’re trying to move up the ladder, move on, and please leave me behind.” “That’s an awful thing to say.” Shelly’s anger flared. “I learned a lot about you, too. If things aren’t easy, you quit.” “Get a room!” someone yelled from an enclosed tent. After what Jay had experienced at the mountain site, this all seemed trivial.

“Goodnight.” Jay turned and went to his tent.

Jay was in a bad mood, while he brushed away sediment from a piece of pottery. He didn’t sleep well from all the nightmares. His mind was so scrambled, he wasn’t even sure Chrysalis was even real anymore. He was half heartedly working the deep end of a trench of what was thought to be a temple, when he felt something tugging at his senses. He stood up and moved a few yards down the trench, the sensation was leaving, he moved back a little. Kneeling down, he racked his trowel across the bottom of the trench wall. A metal sound was heard. He carefully dug around a thin strip of metal about two inches by three inches. He sat on his haunches as he brushed the dirt away. It felt slightly warm to his touch. He rubbed, and spit, until he could make out a series of small lines connected to almost unperceivable row of stones. He studied it closer with a pocket magnifying glass and determined it to be Atlantean. “I’ll be damned.” “Have you discovered something, Mr. Rodgers?” Professor Snodgrass asked, as he waddled through the trench. Jay put the piece in the thigh pocket of his khaki cargo pants, before the old man came around the corner. “No Sir, just the usual pottery pieces.” “Well, let’s keep looking,” he skirted by Jay and continued talking, “If we don’t look, we won’t find. Carry on.” “Professor, about that time off?” He looked around. “Perhaps, in two more days.” He turned and left.

After dinner, Jay went to his tent. He was waiting for the sun to go down before he made a run for Chrysalis. He was about to make his move when Shelly unzipped the tent door and stepped in. She had always made a pair of overalls look good, matter of fact, she made anything she wore look good. Jay met her at the opening. “Shell, it’s not a good time.”

“But I thought you were always good for a good time.” “Uh, not tonight.” “Are you sure,” she said as she unbuckled one of the over shoulder straps. Jay became confused, then he felt the piece of metal in his pocket. “Shell...I have to go to the head, make yourself at home.” He took off into the darkness. “Now, had I known ignoring her was the trick, I would’ve tried that instead,” he said, under his breath as he got his bearings. “Halt, who’s there?” a man with a heavy Greek accent, said. “Damn, I forgot about you guys,” Jay said, to the guard the institute had hired from the local government to oversee their protection. Jay raised his hand to his eyes as the man shined a flashlight taped to a rifle in his face. “Hello, I’m Dr. Rodgers from the archaeological team.” “Yes, I recognize you. What are you doing out here?” “Bathroom.” The excuse had worked before, and since they frequently moved the port-a-potties, it made sense. “The other side of the compound, now go.” “Yes Sir.” Jay immediately turned around and fast walked away. A few people were still scurrying around as he wandered through the camp. He began watching the contingent of guards come and go. He watched their patterns, and after several hours, determined he would have to wait for the next night to time his escape just right. He opened the tent flap, stepping in with his flashlight on, he saw Shelly asleep on his air mattress. With a slight sigh, he removed his boots, and laid back on the lone cot against the tent wall.

Jay was up early, probably the first time in his adult life, and was at the site, hoping to finish, so he could get time off. He scrapped and dug, moving along a predetermined path. He squared the corners, recognizing what things were, where things used to be, categorizing, and catag. He had been there a couple of hours when he turned and bumped into thin air. “What the hell?” he said, reaching out to nothing. “Don’t be alarmed,” a male voice said. “Ahh!” Jay stumbled backward but caught himself. “Gramps?” “Yes.” Jay moved cautiously with his hand out to feel solid air. “It’s a cloaking device, small scale, but efficient.” “What are you doing here?” “You didn’t come back, and your Grandmother was worried.” “The Professor won’t let me go without becoming suspicious. I think I should keep this job in order to keep an eye on them-lead them away, if necessary.” “Good idea. Will you be released soon?” “Tomorrow, I hope.” “The program is set up, and we’re ready to proceed. Shall I incapacitate the sight director for a few days.” Jay smiled at the thought. “No, no, that would only draw more attention. Let’s keep this routine, and boring.” “Shhh,” a wisp of air said. “Who are you talking to?” Professor Snodgrass asked, coming over the rise. Jay tuned quickly. “Uh, myself, just talking to myself.”

“Oh, you’re making great progress, I don’t know what’s gotten into you, Mr. Rodgers, but I like it. At this rate you should be able to take some time off in a couple of days.” He turned to go to another section. Jay grabbed the shovel, and started toward him, but was stopped by an invisible force. “Don’t you think assault might draw some attention?” Jay cooled down. “Yah, you’re right. Does that incapacitation invitation still stand?” He could sense the humor in the non-existent voice. “Here,” Jay’s hand rose on its own. Suddenly, a flexible titanium metal band curved around his wrist. “This is your cloaking device.” John shimmered and appeared before him. “Two fingers, press here, and here, if you do it twice, say the name of the person you wish to communicate with, and we’ll answer.” “Whoa,” Jay said, as he examined the bracelet. “When you’re released tonight, go west one mile, a shuttle will be waiting for you.” “Isn’t that a little obvious.” He thought about what he just said. “It’s cloaked, too.” “Yes, as long as you have the personal cloak engaged, you’ll be able to see it. Board it, and say, Chrysalis. It’ll do the rest.” “Aw, this is so cool. At first, I thought I was dreaming. I’ll be-” John vanished. “Jay, why didn’t you wake me?” Shelly said, coming toward him from the low side. “Ah, well, you looked so peaceful.” “What took you so long?” “Ah, well, it must’ve been something I ate, was there half the night.” “Jay, you’ve been acting very strangely since your Grandfather died. What’s the

matter?” “He’s very important to me...I mean, he was very important to me.” “I always found him interesting, and kind,” she purred, as she moved in close to him. “This is why I have you on the opposite side of the site, Ms. Masters,” Professor Snodgrass said, standing on a mound above them. They both looked up quickly. “When you two are together, not much gets accomplished. Now, Ms. Masters, section B253 awaits your attention.” “Yes, Sir.” She looked back at Jay, as she crawled out of the trench on her way to her assignment, with the Professor close behind. “We’ll see you tonight,” John whispered. “Gramps, I found this.” Jay brought out the strange piece of metal and held it out. It disappeared. “Very old tech, it was very hard for us to find it all. How’d you find it?” “I more or less, felt it.” “You may be more Atlantean than we thought.” “What is it?” “All will be explained. See you soon.”

Jay had his sweaty shirt off before he stepped into his tent. He toweled off and searched for a fresh one. He found it, and as he was putting it on, he heard Shelly call his name, as she walked up to the tent. She opened the flap to an empty room. She called his name several times but remained confused. She called his name several more times, nothing. She could have sworn she saw him walk in here. She looked around one last time, and then stepped out. While she was asking a co-worker about Jay, the tent flap flicked to the side, then fell back into place.

Jay walked right ed a guard without so much as a suspicion. He practically ran toward the shuttle as it got dark. To his surprise, the device also allowed him night vision, but much more clearer than the human kind. He pushed a tree branch to the side, and there it sat. A sleek delta winged ship, much larger than he expected, with a long nose and flight deck up front. Jay touched in awe; the sigil of a tear drop outline with a nova burst behind it. Its 3-D effect kept his attention as he moved down the ship. He couldn’t help but run his hand down the side, as if caressing a through-bred horse. The hatch opened at his arrival, and he slowly stepped in. As soon as he cleared the door, it shut, lights blinked on as the ship came alive. Jay turned off his cloak and walked around the much more spacious ship than it looked, marveling at the 3-D displays that surrounded him. “Chrysalis.” The ship powered up, and he could tell he was moving by the view out of the forward window. There was no sensation of movement, just the sight of trees and mountain silhouettes moving ed. He staggered a little as he finally tore his vision away and looked at something more stable. It took only a few minutes for the shuttle to stop in front of a mountain side. It quietly slipped inside the man-made tunnel and set gently down in a large cavern-hangar. He stepped out to be greeted by his pseudo-Grandparents. “Welcome back, JJ,” Athene-A said, as she put her arm around his, and led him away. “We have a quick tour for you before we start.” Jay gave up trying to everyone’s names. He found the Minotaurs intimidating, and the Centaurs standoffish. He tried to satisfy a Cerberus by scratching all three heads behind the ears simultaneously, but that was futile. He was beginning to feel at ease by the time they made it back to the common area to make plans on how to proceed. “We should get started as soon as we’re done here. I don’t know how long this will take,” John said. “Pops, used to say, take your time and do it right the first time, you may not get a second chance.” “That would be my son, John-Athain?”

“Close, his name is Jonathan.” “Yes, I him,” Athene-A said, staring into space. “He was our first born.” Her eyes teared up. “He is fine, spoke to him...a few months ago. Still doesn’t have much of an imagination. Kind of a, straight forward, only believe what he can touch, and see what’s right in front of him, kinda guy.” “I hope our deaths were not too painful for him.” “He took them hard; he loves you both very much. He has immersed himself in his construction jobs in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. The separation didn’t help either. Mom’s a little estranged right now.” “We know where Las Vegas is.” They looked at each other for a second, as if ing something. “So, how long have you been on Earth?” “The cerebral information transfer device will answer all those questions. We should probably get started. We have to have you back by morning.” “Do I have to go back...oh, alright. Lead the way.”

“Hold still, you hairless monkey,” Rhe-A said to Jay, as she adjusted the thin clear band around his head. “Rhe-A be civilized,” Athene-A said, with a warning in her voice. “I’m joking,” she said, while she recalibrated the device, “I meant, hairless chimpanzee.” She half smiled at Jay, and then walked over to her wall of instruments. “I think I just got an upgrade. I think she likes me,” he whispered. “Is she married?” “I don’t court younger men,” she said, handing John, and Athene-A, a similar

headband. “But you did, or were you just using me?” Jay spitefully said. “Yes, you’re all synched up.” Rhe-A continued to change the subject. “The computer will scan all of you, looking for commonalities, hopefully the reason you gave him so much information will present itself. There are possible sideeffects, like hemorrhaging of the brain, spontaneous aneurisms, loss of all memory, and of course, the all-encoming, death.” Jay’s eyes were wide. “If any of you should die before I can get you disconnected, a part of the others will die also.” She saw the near panic in Jay’s eyes and put her hand on his shoulder. “Don’t worry, it’s less than a one percent chance.” “Oh,” Jay relaxed. “We have to have him back by morning.” “The brain moves more quickly than our linear perceptions. Well, some of ours do. You can only go as fast as the slowest brain. So, we could be here for a while.” Rhe-A gave him a sarcastic look. “I still think she likes me,” Jay smirked back. “Alright everyone, sit back and enjoy the show.” At first, Jay felt nothing. He was starting to wonder if this experiment was going to work at all. Without warning, he took off at the speed of light. Pictures, images, colors, all became a garbled mess. He was nearing a panic stage, wheneverything stopped. He found himself in a hangar, or what looked like a hangar, it was bright, spaceships coming and going. He was looking down on it, like a god checking on his subjects. A focal point became clearer as Jay’s mind raced toward it.

Chapter Three: Before the Beginning He blew out an exasperated breath, and then climbed down from the short ladder. He opened a , letting the tool fall to the floor. The hangar bay was very noisy as space-bound, and planet-bound craft, came and went. The air lock inner doors were massive and made people’s ears pop every time they opened. As he reached for the spanner wrench that lay under the latest model of the Achilles Mark III shuttle, he heard, “Asa-Avion!” He jumped and hit his head on the engine cowl. He turned quickly to see who yelled his name, even though he knew who it was, he cursed anyway. A shorter than normal Terrahnian stood stoically with her hands on her hips. Her determined complexion was darker than his as she stomped toward him. He maintained his temper. “Is my ship going to be ready by the sixteenth hour?” “Yes, Science Councilor Samari-A, it will be ready.” “Good.” She turned quickly in her full-length gray body dress and marched away. Asa half smiled, he always thought she was pretty, for someone older than himself, but she had the personality of a Terrahnian Tibber Wolf. He cleaned off his wrench and went back to work.

“I need you to fly at these altitudes,” Science Councilor Samari-A ordered, as she handed Asa a data pad. “I need precise information.” He took the data pad and set it on the consol, where, the data was immediately transferred. He brought it up on his bigger consol. She stood close behind him, watching. That always made him nervous. He made a few calculations, letting the ship do the flying. “You know, a drone could do all this.” “Yes, I am aware,” she snobbishly said. She noticed the perturbed look on his face and relaxed a little. “I want first hand information so I can make the appropriate adjustments,” she explained a little softer. “Look,” she leaned in closer, “the ultraviolet band changes slightly when oxygen particles

through, and different levels make calculations astronomically variable.” Asa noticed her flowery smell, and lost his concentration for a few seconds, while he ired her ion for science. “In other words, you don’t know why?” Leaning over, she looked at him square in the face. Asa couldn’t stop staring into her blue eyes. “I just haven’t found the answer yet.” She went back to her arrogant attitude, and her instruments. Asa shrugged it off, and finished his flight plan, and then it was back to Pantheon Base. The base had been there for hundreds of years as a mining colony on the planet Assillins. The orophyte was essential to the function of almost everything. Most of the planet was made of it, but retrieving it, and processing it, was extremely difficult and dangerous. Its fragility combined with its volatility, made human involvement a must. Machines helped but did not possess the intuition of humans. Many inventions had been tried, all but the actual human doing the dirty work was all that produced what was needed. The New Enlightenment Order contingent was still fighting the Old Enlightenment Group, albeit, sporadically, but they needed the orophyte, pressure was mounting from the NEO Councilors to have a solution. Samari-A was only a bit player in the scheme of things, but she aspired to be great. Her research led to several discoveries for the other nine departments to advance. She worked tirelessly on the solution the Council approved, sometimes to the point of obsession. Some of her methods would be suspect by any Old Enlightenment Group er, but she was mild, and conservative, compared to her New Enlightenment Order constituents. The ship landed softly in the bay. Asa manipulated the controls and opened the hatch. “Same time tomorrow?” “Yes, but mount the spectrilliograph.” “Aye, aye,” he mocked. She huffed and exited. Asa watched her go, what was that? He thought. She looked back, he smiled.

“No, no, no,” Samari-A said, to the defenseless data tablet, as she threw it to the deck of the shuttle. Asa stood in the flight deck doorway watching the spectacle. “New tactic-beat the information out of the computer-I like it.” “Oooh, shut up, and run that scan again.” “The shuttle’s already working on it, unless you want to beat it, too.” “Uww, don’t you have some flying to do?” “For this mundane work, the shuttle is quite capable of handling it. What’s going on, you are much more irritating than usual.” “What?” “I said, you are much more irritated than usual.” He smiled. She found it contagious, and hid it, by picking up the data pad and sitting down. “The Council wants results-soon.” “Or what? They will take away your seven science degrees.” “No, something worse, take away the backing, and possibly mention my name to the wrong person.” “Really, would that be so bad, not to have this kind of stress.” “This human gene-splicing project means more to me than accolades. I have a nephew that has Aka-Ars disease. My work could pave the way for a vaccine, or perhaps, a cure.” “Oh.” Asa sat down beside her. He took the data pad from her and tapped on it. “I think you should concentrate on the CO2 content in the planet’s atmosphere as it relates to the intensity of sunlight, and not on the Ph levels.” He handed the pad back to her.

She nonchalantly looked at it as she showed, for the first time, actual worth in this person. She stood up; mouth open. “How do-where did-” “Maybe if you interacted with people instead of commanding them, maybe you would learn something more beneficial, besides degrees in Mechanical and BioEngineering doesn’t hurt either. Now, I have a ship to fly.” Asa made his way to the flight deck and closed the door. Samari-A was stunned into silence by the truth, and just sat there.

Asa set the shuttle down easily and made his way to the cabin. Samari-A was packing up her things without making eye . He felt bad now and was contemplating apologizing for the truth when she opened the hatch and stepped out. She turned back to see him in the hatchway. “I know tomorrow is your off day, but would you be available in the late evening, planet time?” Asa had nothing better to do. “Around the sixteenth hour?” “Yes.” Her face brightened. “You have given me quite a few things to think about. I’ll see you then.” Asa smiled as he closed and secured the shuttle. A few more months of this and he would own the craft. He clapped his hands together, before making his way to his favorite restaurant.

“I can’t tell you how frustrating she is,” Asa said to the pale man next to him at the restaurant bar. “So, when are you going to court her?” Asa rolled his eyes. “Honored Jonah-Athain, haven’t you been listening to anything I’ve said?” “Yes, I have listened to you talk about her all night. Ask her and be done with it.”

Asa just stared at the blue-eyed light complexion of a man, who’s been away from a real sun for a long time. “Uh, I can’t right now. She is still my employer.” “Is that just an excuse, or do you still have feelings for your first wife?” “Well, perhaps. She was the one who let the contract expire, not me.” Jonah knew he had struck a nerve and moved to change the subject. “How is your boy? how old is he now?” “He’s growing like a Tarsas Weed. He’ll be ten next month. They are coming to visit me soon. I haven’t seen him in person in over a Solestial year.” “Are they still living on Talis?” “Yes.” “You don’t sound very enthusiastic about it. Is it because of the heavy NEO influence?” Asa looked at him suspiciously. “That’s supposed to be a secret.” “If it is, it’s the worst kept one.” “True,” Asa relaxed. “I can see the NEO influence she’s inflicting on him every time I vid-talk to him.” “You are not a NEO?” “Personally, I could care less about either one.” “Oh, I have an independent in my midst.” “Perhaps, but don’t tell anyone.” “Your secret is safe with me. So, is Samari-A getting any closer to her goal?” “I don’t think so, even though I don’t know what her goal is. You are asking a lot of questions.” “Just trying to keep the conversation alive. Since she’s still using an ‘A’ at the

end of her name, I guess she is still uncommitted.” “Some OEG traditions still linger.” “Well, you had better find out something soon, or you’ll never know. I’ve got to run, Asa, got some boring rescue training in the morning. Goodnight.”

“Beep...Beep...Beep... Asa rolled over and pressed a button. “Yes?” “Honored Avion,” Samari-A said, through the communication system, “I trust we are ready to leave?” “What?” He looked at his chronometer. “It was this evening, not this morning.” “I think I’ve made a breakthrough, and I want to test it as soon as possible.” Asa rolled out of bed wearing only his baggy night pants, and went to his ship’s main hatch to opened it. He stepped back, allowing it to open, while he rubbed his eyes. She stepped in with a satchel full of instruments and data pads. She briefly ired his well chiseled body. He caught her looking before she could turn away. He reached over and closed the hatch. “I was told I would find you here.” “Sorry about the accommodations. The funding hasn’t cleared yet. Are you hungry?” “Yes, perhaps a little.” “Good, you’re cooking. Kitchen is that away.” Asa pointed, and walked away before she could protest. He took his time cleaning up, and getting dressed, just to see how far he could push her. But to his surprise, she had a traditional morning meal ready and waiting as he came into the Galley.

“Smells good,” he said, as he sat down and started to eat. “Umm, not bad for a Scientist.” “You do know I just read the package.” He smiled. “Yes, but heating can be tricky.” “Your insight yesterday was enlightening, what do you know of the project?” “Not much. My clearance has been delayed.” “Not anymore.” She handed him a data chip. “Your clearance has been approved.” He took the chip. “How did you manage?” “I told them you were vital to the project, and I called in a few favors.” “Alright then, what is this vital project?” “Orophyte recovery, it is vital to our cause. As you know, it’s very fragile and human interaction is essential. The conditions on Assillins are less than desirable to human physiology. So, instead of spending hundreds of years changing the planet, we will change our physiology, by reconstructing our DNA to help us cope with the harshness of this planet.” “So, you want to make people-miners capable of surviving with less protection?” “No, we want our miners to not need any protection.” Asa stopped in mid-chew, then swallowed hard. “You want to make a new species. That is radical, even for NEO’s.” “Forward thinking,” Samari-A went into her, superior-than-thou, mode. “Computer simulations show positive results. Besides, we are years away from human trials. Further testing and prescreening could theoretically change them back to their original selves in a matter of months.” “But at what cost?” “You do not sound like a NEO.”

“Perhaps, I am more of an independent. I need to survive, and you are paying. I don’t really care what you do.” “Then maybe we should get started.” Her cold attitude let Asa know the conversation was over.

“Should it be this bumpy?” Samari-A asked through rattling teeth, as she grabbed the seat armrest. “No, not really,” Asa replied, fighting with the controls of the shuttle. “My flight plan read, to expect class three solar flares.” The vibrations became worse. “This shuttle is rated to class five solar flares, but something is different. Asa’s stomach sank as the shuttle lost altitude. He was losing control and couldn’t figure out why. “It should be responding.” The shuttle flat spun out of control toward the unforgiving blue-gray desolate planet. Gravity generators went out, and sparks erupted from parts of the console. “Switching to manual, hold on.” Asa stopped the spin, and slowed the craft by gliding into the high carbon dioxide wind. He bounced the shuttle off of the ground and slid it to a rough stop. He shut down all non-essential systems and initiated the emergency transponder. He looked over at Samari-A, who had wide eyes, and the look of shock on her face. “Samari-A are you alright?” he asked calmly, as he put his hand on her forearm. The sound of his voice snapped her out of the trance. “Yes, yes, I am unhurt.” “Good.” Asa manipulated what controls he could. “O2 scrubbers are nominal, battery power, good, structural integrity is in the green. Looks like we’ll be fine until help arrives.” “How long?” “A few hours.” She didn’t look convinced.

“The ship is stable, just no propulsion. We are fine. All we have to do is wait. The emergency beacon is designed to cut through all kinds of atmospheric interference. Plus, once they realize we’re overdue, they’ll follow my flight plan right to us.” Samari-A relaxed, unbuckled, and went aft. Asa followed her up the slight incline of the unlevel ship. She quietly began picking up data chips and equipment. She was putting them neatly in their place, when Asa came in, sat on a counter, and watched. “It will be okay, Samari-A.” “I am sure it will. Crashing on a hostile planet is the least of my worries. The Science Council is going to replace me if I don’t have progress for them soon. I will not be able to work anywhere.” “Maybe the OEG can use you.” She smiled. “Well, they get most of their research from us anyway.” Asa was about to say something, when a next to his head blew off an struck him. He fell off of the counter as sparks flew around. Samari-A raced to him, and helped him up to get a better look at the wound. He brushed her off, and flicked a few buttons on the wall unit. The sparks stopped, and the lighting went back to normal. “An overload, I have byed it. It’ll be fine.” Samari-A was there with a first aid kit in seconds. “Sit, I have to close that wound.” Asa had a trickle of blood from his temple to his chin. “Huh, it isn’t that bad.” “Bad enough, sit.” He did. She pulled out the gauze and wiped the drying blood away. She moved in close with a small dermal regenerator, moving it around the small cut. Asa found her blue eyes deep and inviting. She stared back, and allowed him to kiss her. It

lasted only a few seconds before she pulled away, blushing. “So,” she said, recalibrating the instrument, “you went to great lengths to get me alone.” She began moving the device around the wound again. Asa snickered. “We are alone all the time. Had I known it would take a shuttle crash to get your attention, I would have done it long ago.” She blushed again as he moved in for another kiss. It was returned without hesitation. Asa moved back to assess the situation. She smiled, and then ran the scanner over his head again. “What is wrong with this thing,” she said as she took her other hand and smacked it. She ran a diagnostic on it, but it displayed no malfunctions. She reached for another one, and it also wouldn’t work, and it too displayed no malfunctions. She reached for a scanner, becoming a little worried, and ran it over the wound. She read the results several times before she smiled. “That’s it.” “What?” She reached her arms around his neck and gave him a long sultry kiss. Samari-A, then took the scanner, ran for her data pad, and began tying it into the main computers. “What did you find?” Asa said, approaching her, holding a sterile patch to his head. She worked the computer frantically, as she spoke, “The combination of solar flare photons, orophyte activity, radiation concentration, and our shielding failing for a few seconds, exposed these things to oxygen in the cabin.” “That sounds bad.” “No, it mutates our DNA to adapt to certain atmospheres. That is why the cell regenerator didn’t work. It could not identify your DNA.” “How long until we mutate into frogs?” She smiled. “A few weeks, but, by then we will have our DNA restructured back to original. Unless you didn’t leave a pure sample for storage.” She looked worried.

Asa smiled. “It is a prerequisite for the job.” “Good, now if we can only get rescued.” Asa didn’t show it, but he was getting worried. It had been four hours since their crash and the backup generators were starting to strain. The radiation shielding might not hold for much longer, but he kept a cheery smile, as he watched Samari-A all her information into a portable data base. He began shutting down more and more systems. He was reluctant to tell her he was going to have to cut power to her computers. She begged for a few more minutes, he relented. Five hours ed, and he was really getting worried. “There, it’s all in here,” she said, patting the book sized data storage box. Asa shut down everything, but life , and the radiation shielding. They sat in the dim emergency lighting, quietly waiting for death. “Well,” Samari-A started, with a faint laugh, “at least the information will survive in this shielded data case. I would hate to think our sacrifice will be for nothing.” She looked at him lovingly. “I would trade all of this if I could go back before the beginning.” Asa put his arm around her. “Don’t give up yet, the Great Creator may have bigger plans for us.” “You believe in that mythical stuff?” “Well, let’s just say it helps me sleep at night.” She lightly laughed. “You sound like an OEG spy.” “No, no such theatrics from me.” Asa stirred; his stomach churned. Samari-A, too, felt nauseated. “It’s the DNA metamorphosis. If we are not treated soon, I don’t know exactly what will happen, but it won’t be good. That’s if we live that long.” “Don’t worry so much, they’ll be here soon,” Asa said, as Samari-A put her head on his shoulder.

Asa had dozed off, but the pounding in his head woke him-no, it was pounding coming from the hatch. He stirred to life, and moved Samari-A against the bulkhead. She had the data satchel gripped tightly to her chest. He went to the hatch and opened the shade; he was immediately blinded by a beam of light. Blinking it away, while listening to the metal echo, he took a tool out from a cabinet and beat it twice on the door. He got two pings back. Relieved, he opened the manual handle, a gushing stream of fresh air, along with a spacesuited person stepped in. It saw that Asa was breathing, and began removing its helmet. “There you are,” Jonah-Athain said, with a big pale smile. His jet-black hair slightly matted to his head. “I’ve been looking all over this planet for you. You missed our game night.” Asa held up a hand, and smiled. “Sorry, orbital traffic.” Jonah laughed as he ran a scanner over him. His smile faded, as he read the readouts. “We need to get you two to the infirmary.” “I agree.” Jonah moved ed him as another rescuer helped Asa through the force field and into the large emergency ship. He saw Samari-A leaning against the bulkhead half conscious, clutching a data book. Jonah tried to remove it while helping her up, but she had a death grip on it. He ed her off to a fellow emergency tech. He watched them leave, then looked around the dimly lit cabin. He spied the rows of dead computer banks that wouldn’t power up. “Are you coming?” came a voice from a fellow comrade. “Yes, I’ll be right there. I need to make sure there are no others.” Jonah quickly looked around, and then took out a small data pyramid, and magnetically stuck it to the bottom of a row of computers and left.

“Your turn,” Jonah said to Asa through the pliable steel window of the hermetically sealed medical chamber.

“I know. I just can’t concentrate today.” “The good thing is, you’ll be out tomorrow.” “Good, they keep telling me my DNA, and sub-DNA sequencing is back to normal. But it is still unsettling.” “Unsettling-I had to get a shot because of you, and I think they used a needle on purpose.” “Asa smiled at the exaggeration. “Thanks for rescuing us.” “You have already thanked me, besides, it’s my job. I’m sorry we didn’t get there faster, but we couldn’t lock in on your bio-signs. Oh, and checkmate.” Asa had a disgusted look on his face. “I like the 3-D version of chess better.” “No excuses. You owe me drinks when you get out.” “I know.” “You two are trying to manipulate DNA, why?” “I was told it was for medical reasons.” Jonah could tell he wasn’t being totally honest, and dropped the subject. He got up and put his jacket on. “Are you going to need a ride to the ship repair facility, tomorrow?” “No thank you, when Samari-A and I get out, we’ll be going to collect my wages and repair credits.” “Alright call me if you need anything.” “How about an escape plan.” Jonah, smiled, waving him off as he left.

It felt good to breathe fresh re-circulated air again, Asa thought as he followed Samari-A to the research center. He was given a clearance tag, and they made their way to the Chief of Research office. She was a tall woman with the rare blonde hair. Her eyes were more blue-green than most Terrahnians. She wore brown slacks with a tan collarless button up shirt. “I am happy to meet you Honored Asa-Avion,” she said, moving forward to shake his hand. “Pleased to meet you Honored Chief Councilor Abatea.” “Please, call me Amand-A. Samari-A, you look well.” “Yes, quite well,” Samari-A said with little affection. “Honored Avion, your ship will take a few more days of repairs. We have credited your , and the repair fees have been taken care of. Samari-A, you must be exhausted from your harrowing experience. Your health is of great concern. The Council wants you to take a week off to recover.” “But I am fine. I’ve already spent two weeks-resting. I wish to reassess my findings.” “I already have people working on it. Now, go home and rest. Next week we are going to proceed with synthezation. Your findings were a step forward. Honored Avion, would you escort Samari-A home.” “But...but...” “We can handle the details until you get back, now, go home, recover.” “Come, Samari-A, I know a great restaurant in the Ecological District.” Asa began pulling her away, she gave up with little resistance. Amand-A just folded her arms, and watched them go. Out in the hallway, Samari-A was furious. “They are stealing my project.” “I know.”

Samari-A stopped her ranting. “Let us not talk here. I know some people who might be able to help us.”

“Oh, this is good,” Jonah said, savoring the imported Terrahnian dish. “You only owed me a drink, but thanks for dinner anyway.” “It’s the least we can do for what you did for us,” Asa said, as he looked affectionately at Samari-A. “Should I have waited longer to rescue you two?” “No, your timing was impeccable.” “Asa tells me that you, or someone you know, can get sensitive information,” Samari-A blurted out. “Samari-A! That is not how this is handled.” “You are right, Asa, she is not very subtle.” “My apologies, Jonah.” “That’s alright, Asa. I think we are done here.” Jonah wiped his mouth, got up and started to walk away. “Is your ship available?” “The inside has been cleaned and repaired. The outside will take another day.” “Good, let us talk there.” Asa jumped up, dragging Samari-A with him. They silently rode the tram to the repair facility, and soon, Asa was fingering the security code on his shuttle. When the hatch shut, Asa powered up the main computer. When he was satisfied there were no listening devices, he told Jonah so. Jonah walked around the main cabin. “So, what do you really want?” Asa put his hand on Samari-A’s shoulder. “We would like to gain access to the

Science Council’s computer information on Samari-A’s research.” Jonah stopped, and then sat down next to the shuttles computer banks. “That is a tall order. What would I get in return?” “So, you can do this,” Samari-A stated. “It won’t be easy,” Jonah said, as he leaned forward, and casually took the data pyramid from the bottom of the console. “I may know someone...” he trailed off, and stood up, waving his other hand while, inconspicuously putting the device in his jacket pocket. “If you share your information with me, I will get you in.” “What?” Samari-A said, not quite understanding. “I deal in commodities, and information is one.” Asa looked at her. “Sounds fair, otherwise we will know nothing while they stall, and the project will be lost to us.” She squinted her face in thought. “Very well.” She relented. “Good, I will you in a few days.”

Beep...beep...beep... Asa moved Samari-A’s hair out of his face, and gently moved her over, and then rolled to the side of bed. He touched the audio only button on the comm and said, “Hello.” “Asa, Jonah, meet me at the Industrial Section in one hour.” Jonah cut the connection. Asa rolled back over and took a deep breath. He moved some dark hair away from her face and paused. Letting the moment , he woke her, and they ventured out. The Industrial Section on Assillins was massive. It was mostly automated, but the large green park was set aside for the human workers. There were even birds

and small animals loose on the grounds of the partially subterranean complex. “Glad you could make it,” Jonah said from behind a long-forgotten statue of an honored woman. The two jumped a little, and then smiled at each other. “We thought you might have changed your mind,” Asa said as he steepled his hands and slightly bowed. “No, this seems really important to you two. We should go. There is a small window of opportunity.” They marched through an underground tunnel that led them through several noisy machine rooms. A few lefts, and then a right, found Jonah standing in front of a secured door. He waved his hand over the security pad, and then put in several alpha-numeric symbols. Pushing a pictograph depicting a bird made the door slid open, allowing them to move into a dark room, with only small monitoring lights to see. Jonah pressed a button, and the large quiet room hummed with monitoring devices all around. The control room made little protest as they moved further in, finding a sizable computer to work with. He brought out a data pyramid and set it on the console as a ghostly keyboard hovered over it. Jonah moved data around like a chess game, until he came to the one, he was looking for. “There.” He pointed at the floating symbols. “I need a verification code before I can proceed.” He looked at Samari-A. “They will track the break in to her, this is the highest level of treason,” Asa commented. “I have a very sophisticated program that will not let them know we were here. Also, when the program is being chased, it moves further away from the host, erasing its path as it goes. It is quite remarkable, and you’ll never be found out. Time is short, however. Do we have a deal?” Samari-A looked at Asa, moved forward with a retinal scan, and then a . Jonah went to work manipulating the symbols as if born to it. The two bystanders could barely keep up, until he came to an abrupt halt. He stared at the cryptic writing. Asa finally put his hand on Jonah’s shoulder. “Jonah, what’s wrong?”

Jonah spun around. “Is this what you two have been working on?” He raised his voice, “Genocide!” “What?” Samari-A asked, “No, what. Let me see.” She pushed Jonah out of her way, and began reading. “What is it, Jonah?” Asa asked, not knowing if he should be scared or not. Samari-A scanned the data, faster and faster. “No, no, this can’t be.” “What is it?” Asa asked again, irritably. “My research was to help, but...” “The NEO Council,” Jonah started, “apparently wants to synthesize a compound that will render the hosts docile, or near comatose, thus, being able to walk in and slaughter them like Aries mountain sheep.” “Samari-A?” Asa said with disbelief in his voice. “I, I think I can develop a vaccine, or cure. I need access to a lab.” She looked at Jonah. Jonah shook off his shock. “I have gone as far as I can in the system. We will have to work with what information we have.” Jonah was backing out of the system when alarms went off. “We were in the system too long-we must go,” Jonah said as he began leaving diversions and traps along the way. He grabbed the pyramid and headed for the door. Asa and Samari-A followed close behind.

The two co-conspirators sat nervously on the tram to the Ecological Section, while Jonah manipulated his hand-held computer. “Do you think we were discovered?” Asa quietly asked Jonah. “They definitely know there was a breach, and are still searching. I think we just got very lucky.” “Where to, now?”

“I’m going to take you two to a laboratory, where you can work in peace. Asa, take us to your ship.”

Chapter Four: A Little Out of Control Asa dialed in the flight plan Jonah had given him, and slid out of the hangar bay. Once out of range of prying eyes, Jonah directed him to circle around and slip into a maintenance tunnel that led to the underbelly of Pantheon, the largest city on Assillins. “Clever,” Asa said to Jonah, in between instructions on where to go, “Hiding under their noses.” Jonah smiled. Asa brought the small ship to a quick halt as he faced a large wall. “You could have warned me.” Jonah raised his data pad, and the tunnel wall rolled aside. The ship went through, letting the door close behind them. Jonah pointed to a landing pad, and Asa gently set the craft down. A force field flared up while a door opened to reveal an old man walking toward the ship as it powered down. The old man was at the hatch by the time Jonah stepped out with his entourage. The two men smiled and double-handedly, shook hands. “Good to see you again, Honored Krios-Alcmeaon. It has been a long time,” Jonah responded to the exceptionally tall Terrahnian, with short gray hair, and chiseled face. His eight and a half feet height towered over the group. “The honor is mine, Honored Jonah-Athain. I didn’t expect you so soon. Now, who do we have here? Your message was very vague.” Jonah led Krios to the disorientated two, and introduced them. “Can we trust them, Jonah?” “We have to. The situation is too desperate.” “Very well, come with me.” They made their way through the door he had previously come out. A few security checks, and they stepped through another door into a deceptively large room with walls of computers, work stations, tables with the latest tech. In the far corner was an isolation chamber. Jonah gave Krios the data pyramid. He set it on the computer and began pouring through the data.

Asa, and Samari-A, walked around with their mouths partially open. She saw several computers flipping through surveillance feeds from all over the planet, and others were running simulations. “May the Great Creator forgive us,” Krios said loud enough for the two strangers to hear. They moved in close as the blinking information raced across the air. Jonah moved away from the noise, and took out his data pad and spoke into it, “OEG Command, this is Agent Zeta Blue Fire, with an Alpha-Omega message, respond.” Jonah repeated the message, as a stunned Asa and Samari-A approached him. He got a buzzing noise from his device. “Damn, Krios, they’ve jammed off-planet communications.” “Affirmative, only intra-planet comm only. The planet has been locked down.” “You are OEG spies,” Asa said, not wanting to be ignored. “More like-OEG sympathizers, as you used to be.” Samari-A looked at Asa as if he betrayed her. “That was a long time ago. I prefer Independent.” “What will happen to us now?” Samari-A asked, blankly looking at Krios, while he quickly sorted the data. Jonah quit trying to communicate. He went to a consol and pulled up security feeds. “Well, it appears you two have made the top ten most wanted list. You are now Old Enlightenment Group spies, congratulations.” “This is not funny, Jonah,” Asa’s voice spit anger. “I know Asa, sorry. I will do everything in my power to keep you two safe. But we must get this information out to stop a slaughter.” “Why do you think that?” “Because there is a plan for distribution as soon as human trials are complete.” “Human trials,” Samari-A broke in, “we are nowhere near human trials.”

“That’s not what Chief Councilor Amand-A-Abatea thinks.” Jonah pulled up several memorandums, showing dates, and how to distribute the chemical agent. “Biological warfare has been outlawed for centuries. This will only inflame the OEG into desperate measures.” Asa became pale as he read. “She plans to use neutral enger ships to get the agent deep inside the OEG, especially to Terrah.” Jonah saw the distress in Asa’s eyes. “What is it, Asa?” “My son and wife are coming here on a neutral ship.” “Wife? Son?” Samari-A said in a wounded tone. Asa snapped out of it. “Former wife, I was going to tell you, but things have gotten a little out of control. I am sorry.” Samari-A looked as though she was going to cry from the information overload. “Here, sit down, my Dear,” Krios said, pulling up a chair. She sat and stared at the computer screens. “Krios, can we monitor the Chief Councilor?” Jonah asked, while he continued to manipulate the computer. “Our programs have been infiltrating for months. We have been waiting for an emergency to use them.” “I think this qualifies.” “Alright, initiating, now.” Several screens flickered and then refocused. The video was colorless, grainy, and only two-dimensional. Only the larger objects could be made out clearly. The screens flicked from one camera to another, until the Chief Councilor was spotted leaving her office. “Program is locked,” Krios said, and got up. “It will automatically track and record her. Now, shall we get started on a cure?”

Samari-A still had a look of disbelief. Jonah put a hand on her shoulder and handed her some water. “Don’t worry, ironically, we will be safe here in the belly of the beast.” “You got anything stronger?”

“It has been three days,” Jonah started, “are we making any progress?” “No, not much,” Krios responded. “Damn, the Councilor is going to try something soon, my observation of her tells me that.” “Maybe sooner than you think,” Asa said, as he pointed to a far screen. “She has quartered off your habitat section, Samari-A. Troops have been moved in. People are trapped.” They all moved to the screen and studied it. Doors were closed, people were screaming in the confusion, men, women, and children, huddled together in fear of the unknown. A soldier hooked up an apparatus to the ventilation shaft and gave the Councilor a nod. She handed him a vile and he attached it to the top of the device. It soon disappeared. Watching closely, their screen showed a vapor entering the section, the small group stood there in horror as the mist made its way through the section. People tried to filter it with wet cloths, or whatever they could find, but it was not use. They all succumbed in a matter of minutes. “Did she kill them?” Samari-A asked. “Did she kill them because of me?” “Look,” Asa said pointing to one screen, “there, see, they’re moving. They are not dead.” Samari-A breathed a sigh of relief as person after person stood up, but there was no other movement. They stood up and stared straight ahead. “I believe,” Krios said, “she thought she was going to find you hiding near your habitat section. They look only sedated. Thank the Great Creator.”

Soon, the mist was evacuated, and the troops moved in, leading the people calmly away. “Well, if she can distribute this quickly, we may have a problem. But with a little warning the OEG can double the filtration systems, and this will all be forgotten.” Suddenly, a mist started coming out of the vent. “Do you smell that?” Krios asked, looking around. “Everybody, into the hyperbaric chamber. Samari-A got the closest, but she, too, soon lay unconscious on the floor.

Jonah rolled over and opened his eyes. A few seconds went by as he focused on the ceiling. Movement, and feeling, in his extremities came back. He rolled back over and was on his hands and knees when he saw Asa stir, and try to focus. Soon, the two were up. Jonah checked on Krios as Asa picked up Samari-A and placed her on a table. As he moved, she groggily opened her eyes. He left her on the table, and went to help Jonah move Krios to a padded examining chair. By the time they made Krios comfortable, Samari-A was up, and testing her balance. “How long have we been out?” she asked, holding her head with one hand, and her stomach with the other. Jonah went to the computers. “About fifteen minutes.” “That was a fast-acting neuro-toxin,” Asa said, walking up and studying the screens. “Why is Krios not waking up?” “Neuro-toxins affect different people differently. We will have to keep an eye on him,” Samari-A sadly said. “Have we been discovered?” “It doesn’t appear so,” Jonah went on, “They purged the toxin into the extraction tunnel, they accidentally got to us. The computer was set to warn us if anyone came close, we didn’t think of gas. Let’s keep working, and see what we can do for Krios.”

Hours went by, and their frustration grew. Krios had been moved to an adjacent room. Jonah kept trying to signal out, but it was no use. His next plan was to take Asa’s shuttle clear of the interference, but he couldn’t move on that idea, yet. Samari-A rubbed her eyes and stood up. “I’m going to check on Krios, do either of you need anything?” Both shook their heads, no. She disappeared into the adjacent room. A few minutes later, a loud scream came from the room. Asa, and Jonah, ran to see what had happened. They rushed into the darkness. Jonah waved his hand in front of the light switch and the room illuminated. They stopped in their tracks at what they saw. In one corner of the room was Samari-A, squatted down, her back to the corner with her arms over her head. In the opposite corner was Krios, or what was left of him. The humanoid that faced the corner had tattered clothes, and grunted as he slowly beat his head against the wall. Asa went to Samari-A, while Jonah went to check on Krios. Jonah noticed the heavy, gurgling, breathing, as he approached. He reached up to touch the back of the old man’s shoulder. “Krios?” His breathing calmed, he put the palms of his hands on each corner wall and lowered his head into the corner. Jonah immediately noticed his hands were dark brown with wrinkles the shape of tree bark. His fists clinched, and then he jumped up and turned, facing Jonah. He growled like a wild animal. His friend and mentor was a crazed animal with thick brown wrinkled skin, sharp fanged teeth, with blood red eyes. Jonah was stunned into inaction, Krios had lost two feet of his height and Jonah found out where it went when he was struck across the room. The creature’s muscles were easily three times bigger than normal. It moved forward on long arms and short muscular legs. Jonah shook off the attack, as Asa and Samari-A came to his aid and helped him up. “Krios, can you understand me?” The monster didn’t even blink as it lunged, growled, and quickly retreated. It moved around to get closer to Samari-A, making the group move slowly toward the door. Then it lunged again, briefly making Samari-A, and Asa, let go of each other. She squealed and regained Asa’s arm. “He’s trying to separate Samari-A from us,” Asa said. “I think he’s trying to

protect her from us. Maybe that’s why he has not attacked,” “Perhaps, but he’s strong enough to kill us both. Make for the door. Samari-A, you’ll be the last one out, so get ready to lock it. Go!” They raced the creature to the door, Samari-A saw Krios’s distorted face in the resemblance of the man, as she closed the door and locked it. What used to be Krios, beat and howled at the metal door. Dents protruded with every crash. “I don’t think that door is going to hold him, “Asa said as he looked around for a solution. He picked up a small surgical laser and looked at it. “I doubt that will help much,” Jonah said, looking around, himself. “Wait, the original metamorphic design was for people to breath CO2, right?” “Yes,” Samari-A said, putting her fear aside. “Grab those oxygen generators.” They grabbed a canister just as the door was knocked off its hinges, and the Krios creature leaped out into the room. It growled, and started to circle them, sometimes on all fours, other times on two muscular legs. “Alright, open the canisters.” Asa stood there with his canister spewing oxygen, and a puny knife. While the other two held a canister in both hands. The creature rolled from side to side as if fighting for breath. It lunged at them, but retreated. It began to stagger, suddenly with a crazy run toward the main door, it hit it solidly, and drove the door almost to the shuttle. It roared and ran off down the main extraction tunnel. “May the Great Creator have mercy on us,” Jonah said, watching the creature disappear down the tunnel. “I’m sorry old friend. Asa, give me a hand with this door.” The two propped the battered metal door against the gaping hole, and went back to the computers. “Is anyone hurt?” Jonah asked, spying the two. “I’m unhurt,” Asa said, trying to shake off what he had just experienced. As if being reminded, Samari-A raised her arm to reveal a bit mark near her elbow. The blood had already dried, but the bruising around it was purple. Asa

retrieved a first aid kit, and began treating the wound. “What the hell just happened?” “I surmise,” Samari-A began, “that the compound we were infected with, was to change our aggressive DNA into a more docile sequence.” She ran her hands over the computer, quickly identifying what she was looking for. “May the Great Creator forgive us.” Asa and Jonah looked at her strangely, as she showed molecular cells capturing others and then multiplying. “The fools, they have mutated the compound when they exposed it to a heavily enriched oxygen surrounding, add in the animal DNA, and sub-DNA strands, it has mutated into a virus.” “Is it still contagious?” “Yes, highly.” “Then why didn’t we mutate?” “The contagion is no longer airborne. It is blood-borne.” Samari-A slowly raised her arm to closely examine the bloody bandage Asa installed. “How long does she have?” Jonah asked. Asa looked at her, then Jonah. “Approximately six hours.” “Samari-A,” Jonah said, as tenderly as possible, “I know this is terrible, but we need your expertise in finding a cure.” Samari-A took a deep breath, and a quiet determination came over her face. “I shall get started.”

After four hours, determination started to give way to frustration. Samari-A used both hands to smack the top of the work station. Asa put his arm around her shoulders. “You need to take a break, go to the room and rest.” “No, because the last person who went into that room came out a monster.” “I am not going to let that happen to you.” They embraced.

“Promise me you will not...let me become a monster. I already feel like one for inventing the compound.” “It was not your fault; you played a small part in a much larger diabolical plan.” “I have more bad news,” Jonah said while moving 3-D pictures. “I’ve been going back through the surveillance system to find Krios, but I found the Councilor and forty troops boarding the neutral ship, Icarus. I think she plans to send the ship to OEG territory and release the virus.” “How long ago?” “About seven hours.” “With the planet wide black out, she may not know about the mutation sideeffects.” “Whether she knows about the virus mutation or not, she needs to be stopped.” “Wait, did you say, Icarus? That’s the ship my former wife and son are on. We have to stop her.” “You two, go. I will continue to work as long as I can.” “No, I will not leave you.” “You must.” “Samari-A,” Jonah said, with a puzzled look on his face, “why did the initial exposure not affect us? Why have you shown no signs of the transformation?” “Uh, well, there could be hundreds of reasons. Maybe,” she got a studied look on her face, tapped her chin with a finger, and then grabbed a blood extractor and took some of her blood. She then moved to Asa, and then to Jonah. Setting the device on the computer scanner, she gave it time to process the information. The computer beeped and she waved the program around as quickly as she could. “It was right in front of me the whole time. We were inoculated from the conditions in the shuttle. Why did I not see it?” “Things have been a little chaotic,” Asa tried to console her.

“More bad news, it’s not a cure. We are only vaccinated against the virus.” “So, our blood is a vaccine,” Jonah said, watching Samari-A shake her head. “ all information to the shuttle and make your own back up.” Jonah made his way to a locker, inputting some symbols, he reached in and pulled out a large carrying bag and looked back at the two. “We are leaving.”

The shuttle moved through the underground tunnel as quickly as possible, while Asa flew where his co-pilot told him. Samari-A stood in the flight deck doorway. “Samari-A,” Jonah started, “can you manufacture the vaccine from what equipment we have on board?” “It is possible, but I can’t make very much.” “Make as much as you can.” She left without another word. “How are we going to escape the force field?” Jonah tapped in some coordinates. “Take us there.” He pointed at the coordinates. “There was a high probability that a lockdown might happen, so we made an escape hatch, of sorts.” The shuttle zipped out of the drainage system into daylight. It was immediately detected, and armed drones were sent after them. “You need to impress me with the power of your ship. Faster is better.” “Alright, but that shield better be down, or we’ll be bug splats on the inside of a windshield.” Jonah smiled. “Trust me.” Asa gave him a wry look. The shuttle rocked from blasts from the drones trying to slow them down.

“We have ten seconds before the drones have a lock, and then it will be the shortest escape in history.” “The window will only be open for a few seconds.” Jonah held his hand over the console as he watched it intently. “Four, three,” Jonah pressed a button activating the program. Asa gritted his teeth and half squinted, as the shuttle ed through nothing. The rear camera showed several drones crashing into the shield, and falling back to Assillins. Jonah started sending a message. “I hope this message gets to the OEG. Without a direct comm booster, the contaminated ship may get there before the message.” “We must help stop the spread of the virus on Icarus. Jonah, I have to save my son and former wife, and I need your help.” “And I’ve got to save an entire race.” Jonah’s face showed doubt and conflict. “I’m certain the communication system on board the Icarus is far more powerful than this shuttle.” Asa let that sink in. Jonah blew out a frustrating breathe. “Very well, take us to the space liner.”

The shuttle finally caught up to the massive space liner, and roughly engaged the airlock on the amidships on the upper beam. The shuttle blended in as starlight streaked by. “Alright, this is as close as I can get to the bridge,” Asa said. “Jonah, go for that and I’ll find my family, Samari-A, stay here, and work on more of the vaccine.” “No, I’m going with you. I will inoculate people as we go.” Asa knew better than to argue with her when she had that look. “We should go, then.” Jonah took out his large bag and began putting on a projectile proof vest, which also had the capability to deflect laser and particle beams. He handed one to Asa and Samari-A. He then pulled out several projectile weapons that had particle

beam conversions on them, and tossed one to each of them. He slipped a few impact grenades in the vest pockets with ammo and power cartridges. The other two watched while putting on their gear. He then tossed a set of comm-scanners at them, and put his in his vest. Zipping up the bag, he stood up, and strapped it to his back. Handing them some nutritional bars, he said, “If my oldest and best friend was willing to kill me, I can only assume there will be no way to talk the infected down. Most likely we will have to kill them to stop them.” The shock on their faces gave way to that realization. “The comm-scanners should have the schematics of the space liner. When you find your family, let me know, and I’ll meet you to help in your evacuation back to the shuttle. May the Great Creator be with us all.” They stepped out into a dimly lit corridor. It was cold, a light breath could be seen in the shadows. The air was stale and thick. Samari-A took out her scanner and pressed a few buttons. “CO2 levels are very high, but only enough to slow oxygen breathers down.” She reached into her bag and handed each one a small vile of pills. “Take one when you need it. They’re blood oxygenators, use sparingly.” Jonah looked at his scanner as he adjusted his rifle. “We’ll stay together until we reach this juncture, then you two are on your own. Move out.” They moved slowly at first adjusting to the dim lighting. Ghostly echoing screams could be heard in the distant corridors. Jonah moved quickly to the noise, and burst into a large room full of panic and mayhem. Krios looking creatures were circling a small group of uninfected. The five bark-faced humanoids turned to look at Jonah. They saw him as a threat, and charged. Jonah fired several projectiles, hitting them center mass and knocking them down. The others seemed confused and ran, or loped, out of the room. The two that got hit, shook it off, and ran after their comrades. “I was hoping that would have had a bigger impact on them, it only startled them. Next time, I don’t think they’ll scare so easily,” Jonah said. Asa moved forward to the crowd of four women and a child huddled in the corner of the room. They were relieved and started to slowly move to him. “Is everyone alright?”

One young, dark-haired, blue-eyed, woman came forward. “Thank you. What is happening?” “It will be alright. What is your name?” “Shawn-A.” Jonah interrupted, “We can do this on the way. Inoculate them. They can either come with us, or stay, but we need to move.” He went hastily to the doorway, while studying his handheld. Samari-A gave the group a cursory look over and vaccinated them as she went. The last young lady was hesitant. Samari-A lifted the young woman’s arm and spied a bite mark. “Jonah, Asa.” The two came to her as she raised the girls arm. The two looked at each other as if wanting the other to make a suggestion. Jonah relented, “Vaccinate her anyway, and maybe it will be in time.” Samari-A did so, and the girl flinched. Jonah turned to leave, and almost ran over the child. She was small and fragile looking, but held a presents. He noticed right away that she had the rare blonde hair, cut relatively short, and blue-green eyes. She looked so familiar to him, but he couldn’t place her, then again, he didn’t have time worry about it. “Is she going to be alright?” the little girl asked. Jonah hesitated as he considered the little girl’s plight. “I won’t lie to you, I don’t know. I hope we got to her in time.” “Thank you for trying,” she said, with strange confidence for such a small person. Jonah smiled and nodded to her, then reality set in, and he put on his warrior face. “We are going.” Jonah took off down a corridor. “Are you soldiers here to save us?”

“No, Dear,” Samari-A answered directly. “We are here to stop the infection as best we can, now come with us.” The group caught up with Jonah as he was checking out an elevator. “The power is still on, and most everything is still working. We can take it to our juncture. Everyone get in.” “Are you sure you are not military,” Shawn-A remarked, while stepping in. “Should we not be trying to get off the ship, instead of going deeper into it?” “We need to the authorities and warn them,” Asa answered, “and find my son.” Shawn-A, and the others got into the elevator. The lighting was even dimmer and the air stale as they moved through the decks. “What is happening?” the young girl asked. Asa looked at Samari-A, who began to explain, “A DNA virus has gotten loose from the research lab, and is turning people into-” “Monsters,” the little girl finished. “Essentially.” “I want to go home.” “We are trying, please be patient.” The elevator stopped and the doors opened to suck all the oxygen out of the elevator. Samari-A began ing out O2 pills to the new comers before they ed out. Jonah and Asa took one of their own. Jonah stepped out and looked left, and then right, he made eye with an infected. It charged, followed by whoops and screams from a half dozen more. “Back!” He fired as he backed into to the elevator. The projectiles only knocked them down for a few seconds, just long enough for the group to get back into the elevator. As the doors closed, a dark brown wrinkly set of hands slashed between the doors. The safety sequence began to

open the door again. Jonah put a boot into the stomach of the culprit, sending him flying back into his comrades, while Samari-A frantically waved her hand over the control , the others just screamed. The doors tried to closed again. Jonah raised his rifle, and shot the creature in the head, sending blood and bone into its group. The doors shut this time, and quiet settled over the elevator. Jonah checked his scanner, and then rerouted the elevator. Samari-A began studying her scanner. “There seems to be a large concentration of people in the lower mid-section of the ship. Your son should be there.” “How can you tell?” Jonah asked. “The shielding of this ship should prevent scanning of over thirty feet.” “I have partially tied into some of the ship’s internal sensors.” “Huh.” Jonah reconfigured his scanner. “That’s better. We will be further away from our objectives, but it will do.” The elevator stopped. Asa and Jonah took precautions and secured the area. Jonah knew they couldn’t travel with the new comers, so he gave Shawn-A instructions on how to get back to the shuttle, with the code to get in. They were to remain there until they got back. The elevator whisked them away. “I will you when I get to the bridge.” “We will keep you informed of our progress,” Asa said. “We do not have a lot of time, so find them quickly.” Jonah took off down a corridor.

The creature was hanging from the ceiling when Asa fired. It fell with a loud thud and twitched. The two stepped over it, watching blood and brain ooze out of its eye socket, that seemed to be their only weak spot. “This way,” Asa said, looking at his handheld and trying not to gag. “As long as they don’t attack in groups, we should be alright.” They stopped and hid in a small utility room, letting Asa get his bearings.

“Asa, what if...you know...what if they are infected?” He stopped and stared into space for a moment. “I don’t know. I will make a decision when I find them.” He moved out, with an even more determined look on his face. They skirted two more clusters of afflicted. By now, he was able to distinguish the dots on his scanner from what was human, and which was not. They came to a locked door. Asa tried to open it, but he was no lock breaker. Samari-A moved in and took the down. She then hooked up some leads from her scanner to the door lock. After pressing a few keys, the door slid open. “You still amaze me,” Asa said, as he moved into the dimly lit room. Samari-A smiled as she followed. “Hello,” Asa said loudly, “Hello, I know you’re in here. I am not afflicted. We want to help.” Slowly a closet door opened to reveal an elderly woman and a couple of children hanging onto her legs. Asa inched forward, and stumbled over something. He shined his light down, with startled quickness, he jumped back. An afflicted male lay there with substantial wounds. Its head almost caved in, and missing a few body parts. Asa scanned it as Samari-A welcomed the woman and children. Soon, they came out of everywhere, ten women and children in all. Samari-A commenced to inoculate them, while Asa stood guard. Once that was complete, Asa asked about his wife and son. None knew of them, but they did mention the afflicted rounding up survivors, and taking them to the grand ball room. Asa gave them instructions on how to get to the shuttle, and he, and Samari-A were off again. The limited range and interference on Asa’s scanner made travel slow. 3-D maps on the walls helped them progress. As they went, they found more small pockets of survivors, they were inoculated, and instructed on how to get to the shuttle. But none knew of his former wife and son. Hours had ed, and they stopped to rest in a state room to drink some water. Food processors and all the other amenities functioned, allowing Samari-A to take advantage of them.

As she came out of the bathroom, Asa watched her in the dim orange glow of the lights. She looked like the ancient Goddess, Aphrodite, many today still used the ancient names. He moved in closer, she accepted his attention.

Jonah wiped some blood off of his temple as he checked the charge on his beam rifle. Low, and it was his last power pack. He was going to have to go back to projectile rounds. Although, they were not very effective, they did slow them down enough for an escape. The resistance was thinning, as he made several lucky shots through an eye or an ear. He moved cautiously down a hallway, confirming the body was dead as he stepped over it. The afflicted clusters kept him away from the bridge, so he skirted around to avoid confrontation. The thought of killing, ever, even if they were not human anymore, made him sick. He pressed on, but it was taking way too long. Several times he felt the ship accelerate. He had to stop it, before it made it to a new population. If this epidemic got out to control, it could mean the end of his civilization as he knew it. Jonah had to rest, he was at his breaking point, and took up residence in a ventilation shaft. He fitfully dozed in and out of nightmares, as he tried to make as little noise as possible. At times, the proximity alarm beeped several times before Jonah stirred to shut it off. He turned on the screen and saw several afflicted heading his way. Their grunts and hisses could be heard below him. They are now working as a group, Jonah thought, very bad. He heard them leave and checked his scanner. The air was hot and stale, he was weary, but he had to move on. Wiping sweat from his brow, he imagined this is what it must feel like being eaten by a beast, this would be hell, being digested alive. He pushed the grate aside and jumped down. The patrolling of the small band left him an opening, but he had to move fast, so he raced down a corridor and up several flights of stairs. A large set of double doors stood in front of Jonah. It was sealed. Prying the off, he connected several leads and started running a security program. The security was tighter than he thought, as he waited impatiently. Then he heard it, grunts and whistles.

The three creatures came around the corner and sniffed the air. Jonah watched them from across the hall with the door slightly cracked open. His weapon was ready, hoping he had enough charge for all of them. One of the creatures walked down the hallway with its nose up. The other two bumped into each other and began scuffling. Jonah noticed the leader was wearing shredded military pants, the other two, he couldn’t tell. The handheld dangled from the leads from the access , quietly running through its routine. The leader became so irritated by his cohorts that he turned and ran back, knocking them both down. Once they were out of earshot, Jonah heard the beeping of completion. He slipped out, retrieved it, and pushed a button, allowing the doors to part. Slipping in quietly, he shut and sealed the doors behind him. He turned to almost complete darkness, only the lighting from the instruments could be seen. He stopped and listened, not hearing anything, moved in closer to the rows and rows of instruments. Setting his rifle down on the nearest console, he accessed the ship’s systems, several warning sirens sounded as he pressed the wrong symbols. He quickly silenced them. He then migrated his way around the bridge, studying the readouts. Slowly, he sat down at the comm console, and cursed. Someone had smashed the controls. He put his head in his hands. Hope and despair was creeping into his usual optimistic self. But wait, there had to be a way, he thought, yes, there is always a backup system, maybe two. While searching for the backup, he came across their coordinates. It was a wonder the engines had not burned out. He then found the internal sensors, tied his handheld into it, and found Asa and Samari-A. Similar DNA traces showed another dot near their own. Jonah pulled up schematics of the comm system, and found the backup on an obscure on the other side of the large room. He moved to the wall and plugged in his handheld. The program sent out a message to the OEG command, repeating continuously. He then called Asa.

Beep...Beep...Beep

Asa’s handheld sounded quietly as he, and Samari-A, floor crawled to the edge of the balcony. Asa answered, while looking down three stories to the banquet hall. “Jonah, go ahead,” he whispered. “Asa, are you and Samari-A alright?” “Yes.” “I made it to the bridge. This ship, for some reason, has made it deep into Terrahnian space. We could be coming up on Terrah anytime. Our new objective is to disable the propulsion system. The commands have been locked out, here. We have to do it from the engine room. Have you found your son?” “Negative, but we have found a colony.” “The ship’s internal DNA scans show him to be nearby, toward the port hull.” Asa leaned further over the balcony and saw a troop of the creatures guarding a large group of un-infected humans in the corner. Un-transformed humans lay scattered about with their skulls caved in. A larger than normal creature waded into the room. He wore tattered military pants, no shirt or shoes, as he inspected the group. Others in the troop backed away, or made sure they were clear of him, as he moved near the group of women and children. The two spies watched in horror, as he leaped into the group with tree bark hands, grabbed a woman and began dragging her away. She screamed as the huddled mass moved back closer together. In the movement, Asa saw her, his former wife, clutching their son. Both looked unharmed, but that would not last for long. “Jonah, I found them, but they are being held captive. It appears there is an alpha male, and he kills any rivals. He picks and chooses his subordinates, and mates. I have to rescue them, soon.” “I’m going to tie all the internal sensors into your handheld, this should give you more advanced warning. I have to go to the engine room, meet me there as soon as you can, understood?” “Understood, good luck.”

Jonah disconnected his handheld, and made his way back to the console, where he left his rifle. It was gone. He looked on the floor and around the console, nothing. “I knew we had a spy, but you never sent up any flags, Jonah-Athain, quite a feat. I am impressed, but I still have to kill you,” Amand-A-Abatae said, as she leveled the rifle on Jonah. Her blonde hair was a little disheveled, and her full-length gray dress was torn in spots. She had a wild look in her blue-green eyes as she readjusted the rifle, and moved further out of the shadows. “Counselor, I can honestly say it is not good to see you.” “Likewise, but I’m going to need the codes to send to your OEG cronies that all is well.” “Why are you doing this?” Jonah asked, stalling to figure a way out of his situation. “I mean, I know it’s war, but this could have the potential to wipe out both sides.” “Because, we have advanced beyond our wisdom. My husband used to say: we have advanced beyond ourselves, and since the OEG has seen fit to take him from me and the NEO’s have taken my daughter from me, I see no advantage in advancing. Do you not see, we have been given a chance to evolve by devolving. We can start over, not from scratch, but at a time when we can chose our progression.” “You knew about the virus mutation?” “Our tests confirmed a possibility of genetic alteration, but this,” she waved her arms slowly around, “was far better than I anticipated.” “So, you want to destroy all our civilizations because your husband and daughter were killed.” “Not just them, you fool, for all the people who have suffered.” The large entrance doors boomed with impacts. Amand-A looked over quickly with her eyes, but did not seem surprised. “If anything, they are persistent.” More pounding, and growling disturbed her rhetoric.

“Listen, Amand-A, I can get us out of here. Just give the weapon to me, and we’ll go. I can keep you safe.” She laughed. “I do ire your idealism, and consistency. No, this is my chance to make a difference, to mold the future. Once I have changed, my dominate nature will lead these new people to a new beginning.” “Why have you waited so long?” “I had to make sure the infection took hold, and to secure the bridge, so something like you would not happen.” Jonah saw the madness in her eyes. “You will kill billions just for the sake of revenge.” The pounding on the door became louder, prying and scratching became more pronounced. “You have not been listening.” “Yes, I have been told that before.” “We will be on Terrah, soon. So, I must say goodbye.” Amanda-A held up a handheld. “Wait, how will you know if any of ‘you’ will remain. You could just be a concubine of the strong.” “By my own observations, and computer simulations, the will, or essence of a person lingers. The basic spirit remains.” “How can you be sure?” “There is only one way to find out.” She raised the handheld and pushed a button. The entrance doors slid open, and three afflicted came racing in. They stopped and growled, gnashing their teeth, they moved toward Jonah, who, slowly made his way near Amand-A.

“Come my children, I will you.” She raised the rifle in the air. “Come, welcome me.” Jonah moved quickly to her grabbing the arm, that held the rifle and injected her with the vaccine. She screamed in anger as she grabbed her throat. The three creatures sniffed the air. They angrily howled and hopped about. Deciding the two humans were now worthless, they attacked. Jonah took the rifle and fired its last shot. He missed the first assailant’s eye, but hit his head instead, sending it tumbling backward. Jonah threw the rifle at the second one, and rolled out of the way. One attacked Amand-A, as Jonah raced for the door, he dove through the entrance door with his handheld in hand, sliding and twisting sideways, he pressed a button and the doors shut, causing the second creature to crash into the inside of it. Jonah saw, in those few seconds, a creature tearing the Councilor apart, he could hear her death screams through the door.

“We will need a diversion, I’ll draw them away, you get my family to the ship, alright?” Asa excitedly instructed. “There are only four, maybe we can just take them out.” “Uh, alright, but if things go wrong, I will draw them away, and you get them to the ship.” Samari-A just smiled at being able to manipulate Asa, as they made their way down. Asa crept around to the side door where the leader had gone, Samari-A came in from the other side. The four guards seemed to be more interested in torturing the humans than worrying about an attack from the outside. They would hop about like primates and suddenly lunge at the crowd, causing them to scream, and back away. Once they assumed their dominance, they would back out and start the hopping over again. Asa moved quietly to the leader’s door without notice. He took a quick look and latched the manual lock with a loud click, he flinched and slowly turned toward

the creatures. The monsters looked his way immediately. “You, there!” came Samari-A’s voice from the other side of the room. The four stopped and looked back and forth, not knowing which one to attack first. They quickly decided to split up, and charged. Asa took carful aim, the head of the first one snapped back, and the second stumbled over its comrade’s lifeless body. It recouped and slobbered, as it resumed its charge. Asa took careful aim again as the leader’s door was being pounded on. The creature lunged; Asa fired as he dove out of the way. A lifeless body smashed into the hatch behind him. The other two had a longer distance to travel. Samari-A got off several shots, dropping the first and wounding the second. It lay on the deck, panting and moaning. Samari-A approached it, the look on its face was a human in pain. Her eyes blurred, as she wiped away a tear. She moved closer, it had once been a civilian, her heart broke, as she saw firsthand, the handiwork her research had provided. She leaned in closer wondering if she could relieve its suffering. It reached out and grabbed her foot, she squealed, and fired a projectile through its head, which landed her on her butt. “Samari-A, are you alright?” Asa asked, helping her up. “Yes, yes, I’m fine.” The crowd began to gather about them as Asa called out his son’s name. He heard his name in return, and the crowd parted to reveal the dark complexion of a boy running to his father. The young man jumped into his arms, and they hugged. “Asa-Avion, I might have known you would be involved,” a slender tanned faced woman with gloss black hair, said as she approached. “Ari-A.” He reached out an arm and hugged her, too. Samari-A felt a surge of jealousy, but was reminded of their situation by the howling and pounding on the far door. “Asa, that door won’t hold for long.”

“Right,” Asa said, going into leader mode. “Listen, everyone, make your way to the escape pods. You cannot jettison at this speed, you will disintegrate. I’m going to the engine room to slow us down, or stop the ship. Lock yourselves in, when it is safe, you will be notified by the computer, and then you can escape this nightmare.” Samari-A began inoculating people, who then, began to run for their lives. “Stick to the outer corridors,” she said, as they went by. “Engine room?” Ari-A asked. “Yes, I have to help in stopping this ship before it contaminates the Terrahnian system.” Ari-A looked confused. “Asa, what is happening?” “I will explain on the way.”

Chapter Five: Family Ties Ever since the elevator stopped working about half way to the engine room, things had gone horribly wrong for Jonah. He was completely out of beam power, and now, was running low on projectiles. He was running as fast as he could through corridors and maintenance hatches. He sucked down another oxygen pill, while he read his scanner. This corridor, right at a maintenance access area, and he would be there. Snarls and growls could be heard close behind him as he turned the corner and headed down the single file tunnel. He glanced back to see at least five dehumanized beings gaining on him. “Asa, where are you?” He yelled in his scanner. “We are at juncture J-34 and M-16.” “I hope you got ammo; I have company.” “We ran out on the trip here.” “Great, just great. I have an idea, but it’s a bad one. Get away from the maintenance hatch door.” “Understood.” Jonah turned another corner, he pulled the safeties off the impact grenades and tossed them behind him. He reached for the hatch door and closed it. He only made it a few steps before the explosion blew the metal hatch door off its hinges, and careened into Jonah, brushing him aside like a fly. Asa, and his group, stood at the opening of the T-intersection that Jonah just flew ed. They went to his assistance through the lingering smoke and debris. The fires were dying down because of the low oxygen, the smoldering heaps of flesh didn’t move. Asa gently rolled Jonah over, he groaned, as he held his right arm with his left. Samari-A knelt beside him with her scanner out.

“Jonah, Jonah, can you hear me?” Asa worriedly asked. Jonah opened his eyes. “Yes, barely, my ears are still ringing,” Jonah screeched. Asa smiled. “Well, at least you were right, this time.” “About what?” he loudly asked. “It was a bad idea.” Jonah tried to laugh, but doubled over in pain. Samari-A injected him with a pain killer. “His arm is fractured in three places, and he has four cracked ribs, not to mention lacerations and contusions.” “Will he live?” Asa asked. “We need to get him to a proper medical facility. All I can do now is immobilize his arm and ribs.” “I’ll be alright, Asa, help me up.” Asa did so, and Jonah almost ed out. Samari-A helped him sit down, and then she took out some mesh cloth and wrapped it around his arm. She carefully attached it to his chest. She then activated her scanner and he groaned again, as the cloth automatically tightened around his chest and arm. “Here are some pain injections. I would tell you to go easy, but I know that’s not going to happen.” “You may be a genius,” Jonah said, slowly getting up, “but your bedside manner needs work.” Jonah turned to see two dark haired, heavily tanned people standing there. “I don’t think we have been introduced.” “Jonah, this is Ari-A, and this is Aether-Avion, my Son.” Jonah held out his hand, but the boy gave him an evil stare and backed away. “You told them everything, right?” “Uh, yes.”

Jonah said softly to the young boy, “I have a son, a bit younger than you. His name is John-Athain, maybe you two will meet some day under more pleasant circumstances.” Jonah looked back at Asa. “The engine room is this way.”

They entered the strangely vacant complex, and suspiciously moved about. The scanners revealed no afflicted in the area, but they were not taking any chances. Jonah and Asa made it to the control section first, to discover it completely destroyed. “Well, that adds to the difficulty,” Asa said, looking about the massive room. Pillars of metal tubes, and miles of conduit ran all through the cathedral. Gasses spewed out from place to place like well timed geysers. A low humming noise was prevalent all through the area. “Jonah, over here,” Samari-A said, from around a corner. Jonah and Asa arrived at the same time. “I have an internal and external sensor console.” “Can we control the engines from here?” Asa asked. “No, but the reason there are no afflicted here, is because of safety protocols. No indication of fire, and low O2 levels, the area was flooded with oxygen, thus, driving them off.” “Good, now maybe we can work in peace.” Samari-A moved the controls around and said, “We are coming up on Terrah.” She studied the readouts. “Oh, no, there is an OEG warship inbound, no doubt to stop us. Their trajectory will make it too late to stop Icarus from reaching the Terrahnian system.” “Can we get external communications from down here?” Jonah asked. “That was destroyed with the control ,” Asa replied. “Damn!”

Asa started moving through the schematics of the ship from the console as fast as he could. “I have some good news, and bad news. I found the redundant control system.” He looked up and pointed, “Up there.” They all spotted a console at the top of a tall column with a three-story ladder leading to the top. “The navigation console is over there.” Asa pointed to another three-story column a hundred feet away from the original. “What kind of stupid design-” “Probably an OEG design,” Samari-A said, without thinking. Jonah groaned. “Asa, you go for the navigation, I will go for the engine controls.” “You cannot even climb a flight of stairs. How are you going to climb a ladder?” Jonah thought for a second. “Can we disengage the artificial gravity long enough for me to get up there?” “That is a safety protocol. It would take the Captain’s override code to disable. I think the Captain was the leader we saw in the ballroom. All we can do is marginally slow down, and turn. I can’t even shut the engines down,” Asa informed the two. “I will do it,” Samari-A said, somewhat unsure. Asa and Jonah turned to her. She took a deep breath. “I can handle the engine controls, but we must move now, Terrah is coming up fast, and I’m picking up numerous afflicted heading this way.” Jonah knew it was the only option. “Can we get ship wide intercom?” “Intra-ship communication, yes.” “Put me on,” Jonah said. “Please listen, those of you who are still human, we are going to attempt to slow the ship. Make your way to an emergency escape pod. This will be your only chance. Good luck.”

“Jonah, what should we do, once we get partial control of the ship?” Asa asked. “Perhaps put in orbit around Solest, until a solution can be found.” “The transformed are designed to survive the most harshest conditions,” SamariA explained, “If just one gets to a population center...we will not be able to stop it.” “Once we slow down to escape pod exit speed, the whole solar system will be at risk.” Jonah added, “Can we overload the engines and destroy the ship?” “That too, would require the Captain and First officer’s security codes. No, I know what to do. We are going to put Icarus on a collision course with Solest.” “There will not be enough time for you two to get to the escape pods.” “Not if we have you slowing us down. Take my family to the shuttle, when we slow down, we’ll have Icarus set on course, we will escape in a pod, and then you can come and pick us up, simple.” “Asa, that is cutting things very close.” “Trust me.” Jonah half smiled. Samari-A butted in, “The afflicted are gathering near the engine room. The elevators are clear back to the shuttle.” “Ari-A take Aether and go with Jonah, he will protect you. Go now.” Ari-A looked at him, then at Samari-A. “I see you have found someone who can keep up with you, and your dreams. I’m happy for you.” She reached up and kissed him. “Do not be late.” “Understood.” “Father, no,” Aether said as he ran to his father. “Don’t leave us, again.” “I’m sorry, Son. Sometimes in life you have to make difficult decisions. When you’re older, you will understand. You too, will have to make hard choices,

choose wisely, with your heart, and your brain. Now, go with Jonah, he will not betray you.” He kissed the boy on the forehead and gave him a hug. Ari-A took him in her arms and started for the exit. Jonah held out his hand. “Be cautious, and good luck my friend.” “Keep my family safe is all I ask,” “I will. Samari-A...” he gave her a hug, “thank you. You are a good person. Good luck to you both.” Jonah moved as quickly as he could to the elevator exit. After the others had left, Asa and Samari-A moved to the engine control column. “Now, wait for my signal-” “I know what to do,” Samari-A nervously said. Asa just smiled back as she kissed him, and then started up the ladder.

Jonah, with Ari-A’s help, had to reroute the elevator several times in order to reach their destination. The doors slid open; Ari-A helped Jonah to the air lock. He gave Aether the code and he quickly fingered it on the keypad. The door slid open to screaming people. They quieted down when they realized who it was. A dozen women and children quietly stared at them as they made their way through to the flight deck. Jonah pointed to a chair, occupied by the small young girl with the rare blonde hair that he thought he had recognized before. She quickly moved, and Jonah sat down. “Ari-A, could you get me the pain killers out of that cabinet.” He pointed across the flight deck. She did so with a nod. “Are we going to die?” the little blue-green eyed girl asked. “No, my Dear, not today.” He looked at her again in familiarity. “Do I know you?”

“I was told not to reveal my name to strangers.” “Alright,” he held out his hand, “I am Agent Jonah-Athain of the OEG. Now, we are no longer strangers.” She took his hand. “I am Rizz-Anna, daughter of Vice Councilor NikolaosAnna.” “Yes, now, I seeing you on the news feeds. How in the universe did you get here?” he asked, as the pain inhibitors took effect, and he began his preflight start up. “My parents sent me home early from our emissary duties on the outlying colonies, so I could attend school on time. Sadly, Shawn-A was the only escort to survive, trying to protect me.” “I am sorry, but that is what adults do, we protect our young,” Jonah looked over at Aether. “Do not feel guilty. Now, go secure yourself a place. This might get bumpy.” The little girl smiled, and went to the crowd. Jonah found piloting difficult and even worse with one hand. “Aether, could you come here?” The young boy entered, and was immediately transfixed on the instrument . “Have you ever been in your father’s ship?” “His old ones, but not this one.” “Has he taught you to fly, yet?” Ari-A answered for him. “Asa, used to take him along on deliveries, but nothing this sophisticated.” “My new computer simulators are like this, why?” “I need your help.” Excitement streaked across his face, then fear, and finally, anger. “Why would I help an OEG spy?”

“Aether!” his mother responded. “It is alright, Ari-A. Aether, you do not have to like me, but I need your help. I cannot fly this ship in my condition. Sometimes in life, we all have to do things we dislike in order to protect the ones we love. You’ll understand this when you’re older.” “I understand it perfectly.” He looked over at his mother. “Very well, but I don’t see what help I can be.” “You’re an Avion, flying is in your blood, the blood of your father. I have faith in him, and now I have faith in you. Follow your instincts is all I ask.”

Asa was sweating by the time he reached the top of the column. He looked across, and saw Samari-A almost to the top of her control column. He began switching control of the navigational systems to his console. He put his comm/scanner on the console and opened all the channels. Samari-A was gasping for breath, while she took out her scanner, and placed it on the console. After a few moments, she too, began reconfiguring the control unit. Both took a few moments to transfer control due to their unfamiliarity with the system, but by the time they were ready, Jonah called, and told them, they were ready. The open channeled handhelds allowed them to communicate without yelling. Asa looked over at Samari-A and instructed, “We need to do this quickly, and get to the escape pod. Are you ready?” She shook her head, yes, and began manually controlling the ship. Acceleration decreased near the gas giant, Septor. Asa steered the lumbering giant ship toward Solest and away from Terrah. “We are still not slow enough.” Samari-A began decreasing speed. “If I slow us too fast, the ship will break apart.” “Push it to its limits.”

Icarus began to shake and groan under the stress. It slowly began to turn toward the sun. Launch sequences came over Jonah’s console. The shaking was becoming more violent as he pushed the jettison button. Queasiness came over everyone, except Aether, as the gravity compensators struggled to adjust. The ship tumbled out of control. Aether’s little hands began pummeling the controls into his submission, and the shuttle righted itself and set course back to Icarus.

Icarus was shaking itself apart as Asa did a fireman’s slid down the ladder. Samari-A was much slower as her inexperience showed. Asa made it through falling debris and got to the base of the ladder, and began cheering her on. The ship tilted and almost flung her off of the ladder. Asa held his breathe as she regained control and slid the rest of the way down, a little too fast. She drove Asa, and herself, to the floor. He helped her up, and they took off toward the exit, only to stumbled through a hatch, and into a four-way intersection. They moved to go to the corridor containing the escape pod, but two creatures stood in their way. Quickly turning down another corridor, it too, had creatures slowly approaching. In seconds, they were completely surrounded.

At least a hundred escape pods dispersed from the ship like spores in a high wind. Jonah manipulated the console so he could get a reading of Asa’s pod. Aether zipped in and out of the pods like a professional, he stared at his instruments, and chewed on his lower lip. “We must go faster,” Jonah called out, “We are near Solest’s gravitational threshold. If we go past it, she will pull us in, too.” “I can’t go any faster, and miss the pods.” “Do your best.” Jonah hit the console. “Where are you. I can’t find the pod.”

“Jo...Jo...Jonah,” came Asa’s scratchy voice over the comm. “Asa, get out of there.” Solest was becoming brighter and bigger as the two ships raced to meet her. “Too...too late. We are surrounded. Keep my family safe. Goodbye.” “No!” “Aether cleared the pods and accelerated. Jonah did some quick calculations. A strange calm came over him, as he made the hard decision. He had no more choices. “Aether, we are only seconds away from the threshold-we must break off.” “No, I can do this.” Jonah wanted to believe him. He tapped the controls and took over as Aether raised his hands up in confusion at losing control. Jonah banked the ship to the left of its position, and fired all power sources, including the emergency thrusters rockets. The G-forces set them back in their chairs, as the people on the floor lay flat. The shuttle shook and sparks blew from terminals and relays. Loose, small objects bashed them as they flew by. Icarus disappeared into the light, as the tiny ship retreated.

Asa helped Samari-A up, while watching the creatures become scared of the unknown. They slinked away from the violence going on around them, but found no solace. Asa pushed hair out of her bruised face and looked her in the eyes. “I am sorry.” “No, I’m sorry for bringing this down upon you. I should be the only one to pay for my arrogance.” “Maybe something good will come from all this, but for now, I’m glad to be with you.” They embraced and kissed. Both felt a presents, and looked at a small pin light that grew larger and larger.

Soon, it formed a bipedal human like form. Not bright enough to blind, but felt warm and inviting. Several more light people formed and began placing a duller device on the floor. The one nearest the two humans held out an inviting bright hand with three fingers and a thumb. The ship vibrated and explosions echoed down the corridor. They both simultaneously reached out to the light creature. They vanished leaving only the small device.

“He is gone,” Ari-A said, from an observer seat behind the First Officer’s chair. “Yes,” Jonah said, blinking away a tear. The small ship stabilized, and everyone breathed easier. Aether sulked as his mother tried to console him. “What’s going on?” Jonah said to himself, while looking out of the forward screen. He saw small explosions appear, and disappear as he closed in. He waved his hands over the console to bring up a clearer picture. “Great Creator, what are they doing?” Jonah ran his hands over the console again. “The warship is firing on the escape pods.” Jonah quickly identified the ship and began hailing it. “Terrahnian warship Vanguard, cease fire, cease fire. I’m Agent Jonah-Athain of the Special Assignment Council, code, Agent Zeta Blue Fire. Cease fire.” There was a long pause, as more pods exploded. “Agent Athain, this is Captain Joaquin-Augustus. Stay clear of the Vanguard, or you too, will be destroyed, by order of the Chief Councilor.” “I am invoking order two-one-two-alpha paragraph six-zero-one, I am now lead investigator, and therefore in command. Cease fire.” “Agent Athain, this is a military action, you have no jurisdiction.” “Damn,” Jonah said, trying to think of something else to save lives. He looked back to see the little blonde girl helping people who had been injured. “Captain Augustus, check the manifest of the Icarus. The Vice Councilor’s daughter is on one of those pods. Check the manifest, so you can explain why you murdered his daughter,” Jonah bluffed.

The destruction stopped almost immediately. The shuttle took up a position near the Vanguard’s hanger doors. “Captain, open the hangar doors, so we can start the rescue operation.” “I can’t allow this kind of contamination on my ship.” “I have the vaccine, Captain, but I need to synthesize more.” “Agent Athain, I cannot-” his transmission was cut. Soon, the hangar doors parted, and he was given clearance.

Jonah stood in the hangar bay, being examined by a physician in a decontamination suit. He took his blood, and his research pyramid. After about thirty minutes, he removed his suit. Several of the pods had already been retrieved, and placed in isolation force fields. More were coming in, as the vaccine was synthesized and distributed. Jonah was helping with the vaccinations when the Captain arrived. He was young for a Captain, but big and intimidating. His short cropped black hair and blue eyes showed no signs of emotion as he approached. “Agent Athain, which pod is the Vice Councilor’s daughter in?” “Oh, she’s right over there. Sorry, in all the confusion, I forgot she was on board. Funny how that happened.” The Captain didn’t look amused. “Funny, yes.” He turned, went to her, and then led her away.

Jonah’s arm and ribs had been repaired by the time they coasted into orbit around Terrah. All the escape pods had been recovered. The quarantine was still in effect, as they went pod by pod, releasing the uninfected. Several pods had the afflicted onboard. They were disintegrated on the spot. Those who appeared to be in transition, were taken to an isolation lab to be studied.

Jonah stood on the bridge of the Vanguard, and finished speaking to his wife at the comm station. He waved the console off with a smile, and then approached Captain Augustus. “When will I be able to transport down to Terrah to give a follow-up to my report?” “You are not going to Terrah, Agent Athain.” “Then, where?” Captain Augustus turned toward the large view screen. “There.” Jonah looked at a space station growing larger in the screen. It was round, like a wheel, and well lit. Ships were dwarfed by its size. Augustus turned back to Jonah, who couldn’t stop staring at it. “Oh, in all the confusion, I must have forgotten to tell you. We were ordered to deliver you to Space Station Atlantis for your debrief. Funny, how that happened.” Augustus cracked a slight smile. “Yes, funny,” Jonah said, as he looked back at Atlantis. “I have never been there.” “She just underwent a ten-year expansion and renovation plan. She may be old, but she has a new breath of life. We will be docking at the twentieth hour. You are to report to your boss soon thereafter. Now, Agent Athain, get off my bridge.” Jonah smiled. “Aye, aye, Sir.” And quickly exited.

Two full solar days went by, as Jonah nervously paced the floor of the outer office. An assistant soon arrived, and led him into a very large Council chamber. He looked around at the people sitting, mumbling, waving their hands over computers, and sending data pads around to one another. This was a full-blown Council meeting, the Chief Councilor, Vice Chief Councilor, and all the department Councilors were present, including his own boss. “Councilors, Councilors,” the Chief Councilor bellowed, “The Special Inquiry is

in session. Agent Athain, please come forward.” Jonah was already startled, but the in-formality made him even more nervous. Jonah moved to a podium in the middle of the room and waited to be addressed. “Agent Athain, thank you for your patience, and thank you for saving us all.” “I was not alone in that endeavor, Chief Councilor.” “Your retrieval of data and testimony was very thorough. We are still processing it all, but the Council considers your opinion important in this matter. Our response to this attack has to have an answer. We want to know what you think, do we retaliate by force, or do we open diplomatic channels, which do we use in order to keep this from happening again?” Jonah felt all eyes on him. “Sir, I have spent a lot of time among the NEOs, they are arrogant, reckless, and dangerous. That is how a rogue faction was able to exploit their science, but they are us, and we are them. We have been fighting for well over two hundred years, to no avail. I think diplomatic relations should be restored.” “I disagree,” Captain Augustus said, as he stood up. “Your opinion, Captain, has been noted. You are out of order.” “I must remind the Council how serious this attack on our home world was. A few more seconds, or a slight miscalculation, and we would all be dead. Our society destroyed. This threat cannot be allowed to continue. Even now, reports are coming in from outlying colonies, several have been infected. Quarantine, and extermination procedures are in effect. Several NEO colonies are being eliminated as we speak.” Augustus received a lot of approval nods and murmurs of acceptance. Jonah could tell the Council was concerned about the Captain’s rise to power during this crisis. The military had not had a say in Council business in hundreds of years. He felt the political atmosphere changing. “Captain Augustus, we realize the threat, and are seriously considering your proposal for a military buildup. That course of action will take decades to come to fruition.” “If given the approval, I will put an end to this rebellion. A task force of five

thousand is on its way to Talis to arrest the perpetrators, and if necessary, destroy the facility.” “At what cost?” Jonah butted in, “How many more lives? I’ve been around the average citizenry, they are good people, who just believe differently. You cannot hold back technology; it has to be tempered with wisdom and patience. I lost good friends, NEO friends, who gave their lives to save OEG people. I can’t accept that the only way to repay them is to annihilate their friends and family.” “Chief Councilor.” “That is enough, Captain, you are out of line, sit down.” Augustus did so reluctantly. “It is because of your NEO friend’s sacrifice that I have decided to pursue both options. Agent Athain, you have proved yourself capable, as in all good deeds, rewards could be considered punishment. I’m promoting you to Ambassador to the New Enlightenment Group, effective immediately. All power and authority will be updated. Now. Your first task is to take the surviving NEOs home, and establish relations. Work in conjunction with the task force. Perhaps we can stop some bloodshed. Any questions?” Jonah was too stunned to speak, and was led to a Council seat near the military delegation. “Captain Augustus, I am giving approval for the military buildup. This is considered classified information. If Ambassador Athain is successful, then we will suspend the buildup, but if he is unsuccessful, we will end this conflict by force.” Augustus looked pleased with himself, as he looked over at Jonah. “Now, is there any more business?” “Yes, Chief Councilor,” a very thin Terrahnian diplomat said. “Proceed, before I jump from this orbital station.” “Oh, uh, yes, well, for further research, we had several scientific satellites orbiting Solest. When Icarus exploded, there was some anomalies irradiating from our sun.”

“I thought we knew all we needed to know about Solest?” “A brief pulse from the explosion, although, minute, caused a spike in activity. One could suspect our sun is weakening. We request be awarded a bureau to investigate.” “I will consider your proposal. This session is adjourned.”

Jonah stood on the observation deck in his new Ambassadorial uniform, a high collar, light gray tunic, with gold embroidered trim, slacks and shoes to match. He stared at Terrah through the ultra clear ten-foot by ten-foot window. He put the back of his knuckle against the window, just to reassure himself it was really there. The blue green planet turned slowly to reveal the occasional puffy white clouds hanging suspended between heaven and earth. It had been almost a week since the Icarus incident. He had spoken to his family by vid-comm every day, but that was not the same as being there. The inquiries still lingered, and as accommodating as Atlantis was, he still wanted to go home. “Do you miss your family?” a child’s voice came from behind him. He turned to see the Vice Chief Councilor, and Rizz-Anna standing there stoically. He smiled at the sight of the two, who were perfectly dressed, with both their hands behind their backs and standing straight. “Yes, yes, I do, very much. I’ve been away a long time. I hope my son, John, re me, other than someone on the vid-comm.” The Vice Councilor stepped forward; his light gray outfit had tiny awards hanging from the left breast pocket. They lightly jingled when he moved, held out his hands and steepled them together. “I wanted to personally thank you for saving my daughter. We are forever in your debt.” Jonah returned the gesture. “It was the effort of a lot of people, but I will say, you’re welcome, for all of them.” Jonah released his hands, and knelt down. He shook the little girl’s hand, and said, “In the end, it was she, and her name, that saved us all. Thank you for being honest with me. You are very brave, and

mature for your age.” The little blonde-haired girl smiled modestly, and shook his hand. “Come, Rizz, your mother awaits, and you have already missed some school.” Jonah let go and stood up as she negotiated. “Aw, the trauma I’ve experienced should garner me a few days off, right, Father?” She looked sad. “We will discuss this on our way, now come.” Jonah smiled as they made their way to the door. “She will make a great Chief Councilor, some day.” “She may already be Chief Councilor, goodbye Honored Jonah-Athain, and good luck.” “Goodbye, Jonah,” Rizz-Anna said to her father’s surprise at the familiarity. Jonah smiled and nodded, and then turned back toward the window, feeling better about the sacrifices.

Ambassador Athain walked through the detention center. There were some two hundred survivors considered NEO sympathizers. The neutral, and OEG sympathizers had been released days ago. All eyes followed him as he searched. His searching didn’t take long. “Agent Athain,” Ari-A said, storming up to him, “are we prisoners of war, or are we considered spies? Why are we being detained like this? We want representation, and access to communication to our home worlds.” “Understood,” was all he said. This infuriated her even more. “I see why Asa loved you so much.” She calmed down immediately, as the crowd of angry women and children moved in closer. “I have been promoted to Ambassador to the New Enlightenment Order, and because of your former husband’s sacrifice, the Chief Councilor has granted all of you visitation status for as long as you are here.”

“What good is that going to do us if we have no transportation, or credits.” Jonah reached into his tunic pocket, and pulled out a data chip. “A ship will be leaving for NEO space, from bay thirty-four, tomorrow at the seventeenth hour. It will take all of you home. In the meantime, you are free to go.” He looked back at the door, which was standing open with no guards. Stunning silence. “Oh, Ari-A, here is my budget allotment. It is good at all the merchant stores here on Atlantis. There should be enough to feed, and re-clothe everyone here, maybe even enough for souvenirs. You are in charge of it. Have fun.” He handed it to her, and walked away. She stood there with her mouth open, while being rushed by a lot of happy people.

Jonah stood on the hangar deck as the survivors were loaded into a large shuttle to be taken to their home worlds. Ari-A, with Aether in tow, approached Jonah. “Jonah, Aether and I don’t have an identity to board the NEO shuttle.” “Of course, you don’t, follow me.” They walked for a long way as Ari-A talked. “We appreciate what you’ve done for us.” “It’s really not much in comparison.” “I have spoken to most of the survivors, and almost all are willing to testify on the OEG’s behalf at the summit.” “I appreciate that, although it may not help with a battle group behind me.” Jonah stopped at a very large blast wall, near a row of control buttons. “Jonah, we must get to the shuttle. It will leave without us.” “You two are not leaving on that shuttle.” He pushed a button, and the massive blast wall sank into the floor. It slowly revealed Asa’s shuttle.

Aether, and his mother, just stood there, confused. “It has been repaired and certified. Aether, I am certain your father would have wanted you to have it.” Aether’s eyes lit up. Jonah took a data card out of his pocket. “But, since, even by NEO standards, you’re not old enough to fly, your mother has control of it.” He handed her the registration card. She took it. “I do not know what to say, but thank you.” “There is also an number on that card. Asa was saving for you two. The NEO Science Council finally gave up what they owed him, with only the minimum amount of persuasion.” Aether didn’t smile. He turned and boarded the ship. “I’m sorry. He is still angry about his father’s death.” “It’s alright, maybe in time he will forgive me. Especially if I’m successful in bringing peace to our people.” She reached up and kissed him on the cheek. “Good luck, and if I can help in any way, call.” A pale tall dark-haired woman in a NEO jumpsuit, stood in the hatchway of the shuttle. “Good luck to you both. The NEO pilot I found will take you two to wherever you want. Except, maybe you should avoid Talis for a little while. Goodbye AriA.” “Goodbye, Jonah,” she said to his back as he moved away.

They had been traveling for a week, slow, but efforts by the survivors, made peace talks a reality as he managed to slow the fleet even more, so he could negotiate for the arrest of any associated people involved with the outbreak. He tried to explain to the Council about Chief Science Councilor Abatea, but they would not listen. The OEG wanted retribution at all costs.

Jonah-Athain was in the middle of negotiations, when the Commander of the task force became impatient, and ordered a surrender of all involved with the outbreak. Jonah was ordered off-planet, as the NEO’s deployed six large ships and hundreds of small drones. They moved toward the OEG fleet slowly, but deliberately. Their maneuvering took the shape of a large dish pointed at the fleet. The OEG fleet did not back down at such a pathetic show of force. The standoff lasted for hours, while Jonah spoke with the Fleet Commander. “Commander Allereon,” Jonah said to the man’s image on the large forward screen of his diplomatic ship, “what is the meaning of this?” “I’ve been given orders to apprehend the perpetrators, and that is what I’m going to do. You had your time.” “Commander, negotiations take time. I was making progress, and now your aggressive action have threatened all my work.” “Someone has to be able for the loss of life, and near annihilation of our race. Let me show you how to negotiate.” He looked away from the screen. “Helm, ahead one-quarter.” The Commander kept the channel open as an unseen subordinate began to explain, “Sir, I’m getting a power surge from the planet. It’s directed at the NEO fleet. It doesn’t make sense.” Soon, a wave of heat-like ripples expelled from Talis, and raced to the grid of NEO ships. The waves began to engulf the dish formation of ships and drones. They brightened with a white glow that expanded by the minute. Jonah was reading the scans as he heard the open channel of Commander Allereon. “NEO fleet, move aside, or I will consider you hostile and I will open fire. Do you understand.” “OEG fleet,” came a voice through the open channel, “do not come any closer or your aggressive act will be met with force.” This is spiraling out of control, Jonah thought, he tried to open a channel to the NEO Ambassador. Her face soon appeared on a screen. Her older features did not reveal her intentions, just sharp blue eyes, and her gray hair may have once been blonde. “Ambassador, help me stop this.”

“I’m sorry, Ambassador, but it is out of my hands. The Military Council has taken jurisdiction.” She leaned in closer to the screen. “If I were you, I would get them to back off. Good luck, Ambassador.” The connection was severed. Jonah tried to communicate with Commander Allereon. The comm was still open, but he ignored Jonah’s requests. Finally, he answered. “Yes, Ambassador.” “Commander, I have reason to believe this is a trap. I recommend you retreat until you can ascertain the function of the energy field.” “Nice try, Ambassador, but my science team thinks the energy field is to low frequency to penetrate our shields. So-” Jonah saw the extremely bright glow on his view screen of the OEG ship, as a burst of multi-spectrum light flashed toward the OEG fleet. The bright flash seemed to go right through the fleet as if just shining a light on them. Jonah was about to breathe a sigh of relief when he looked at his open channel to the fleet command ship. He saw the Commander, and everyone in view, simply fall to the deck. He yelled into the comm for anyone to answer, but got nothing. “Sensor officer, are they alright?” She looked confused as she manipulated the controls. “Ambassador...I am not reading any life on any of the OEG ships.” Her voice was shaky, “They are all dead, Sir.” Jonah was shocked into inaction, as he tried to digest the ramifications of this action. He finally stepped down to the lower level of the bridge and barked, “Helm, one-hundred-eighty degrees, as fast as you can. Get us back to OEG space.” The ship spun around, as the engines blasted it away from Talis. Only a minute went by and no pursuit. Then the Comm Officer spoke up, “Sir, we are being hailed by the NEO Ambassador.” Jonah took a few moments to compose himself, and then pressed a button at the station he was standing next to. The Ambassador’s face appeared distraught and shaken. Her voice cracked as she spoke, “Ambassador, this was not supposed to happen. The weapon was not designed to kill, it was only built to act as a type of taser to the brain. It was only intended to make them unconscious for an hour.

We don’t know what went wrong. We are sorry.” “So, this was why you would not negotiate in good faith. You wanted to test your new toy; well, I can’t accept your apology. The families of those five thousand people will not accept your apology.” “Ambassador, please try to convince them it was an accident. Will you please try?” Jonah believed her, but there was nothing he could do, but await the retaliation. Maybe then he could try negotiations again, if he lived that long. “Alright, Ambassador, I’ll try, but I suggest you prepare for all out war.” “Thank you, Ambassador. Try, is all we ask.”

The 3-D movie winked out, being replaced by the sterile atmosphere of the laboratory. Jay blinked a couple of times and sat up. John was there next to him. “Wow, that was intense. What happened after the NEO attack?” John took a deep breath, and sat on the table next to Jay. “Some of it you’ve already been told, but my Grandfather did try to explain, and bring peace, but to no avail. The populous was too appalled and enraged over the slaughter. The war was moved up to top priority. This was a time when the Enlightenment Wars were at their zenith. Horrific battles ensued, but, as in times past, neither side made any headway as the disagreements and mistrust fueled the flames of hatred. War flashed back and forth for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the OEG fleet continued its massive buildup to end the rebellion. The NEO continued unabated with development and experimentation at an uncontrolled pace. Ambassador Athain continued his quest for peace far into his life, taking my father with him every chance he could. My father, John-Athain grew up watching his father try, and fail, to bring Terrahnians together. He never stopped trying, but those are for later stories, and other adventures so documented in a real book.” John waved a hand and a large ghostly screen appeared in front of them both. The image blinked to a Spartan-like room, where a dark complexion of a bald man sat with a book. Drof-Avion, put the synthetic book down, and

leaned back in his chair. Jay could see Drof wave his hand over his computer screen. “Yes, John, what’s happening?” “Hello, Drof, we need to talk.” John focused on the book. “I see your reading that book again. You should have it memorized by now.” “I do. I just like the feel of it. Something real and physical. Not that damn dream world the stasis matrix puts out.” “It seems the book may contain something that might help us. Can you explain it to my Grandson?” “Like when you were a child?” John smiled at the memories. “Yes, you don’t seem to be surprised by what I just told you.” “Why should I. I read the reports.” He looked at Jay. “Jay, this book was ed down from my Grandfather, Aether-Avion, to my father, Ali-Avion, and then to me. Jonah-Athain had written most of it from data transmissions, and his own memories. Jonah had given it to his son, John, who added to it, and during Aether’s first year as Chief Councilor, was given the book. Not many things had been in actual print at this time, because almost all information was in the digital archives, but Jonah wanted something physical that would last through time. It is my most prized possession. I made sure it was with me when we escaped Terrah, and all through our trials. The book inextricably ed the Avion family with the Athain family. Although, I can’t explain our family ties, but we have trusted each other ever since. Now, that we are stranded on Earth, and in time, I’ve always felt safe and confident with John.” “I appreciate that Drof, and I would follow you to the ends of space and time. We may need that book, could you bring it to the med-lab?” “Of course, be there in ten.” The screen went blank, and Drof put the book under his arm. He grabbed his jacket and went to the door, only to look back at the room he had tunneled out himself in the mountain hideout. He turned and walked out of the door wondering what kind of scatter-brained adventure John was getting him into this

time. He smiled, as he ran his hand over his bald head, at least he makes life worth living. “I just saw all that, not just hearing it, or watching it, I saw it all. Whoa...” Jay drifted off into mental space. Rhe-A took the device off, and put it aside. “His mental capabilities are growing, I’m surprised.” Jay heard that, and sat up. “How long were we out?” “Four hours thirteen minutes.” “Wow, that’s it. I thought we were there for days.” “Alright, what are the correlations?” John asked, as he strolled the room. “I don’t think I’m going to be much help,” Jay said, swinging his legs back and forth. “Very little of that story was told to me by...you.” He felt dizzy for a few seconds, and steadied himself. Drof stepped into the room with his book. Jay knew exactly who he was before the videoconference, by the description his Grandfather had given him. Jay stood up and looked up. “Pleased to meet you, Mr. Avion,” he said, steepling his fingers and slightly bowing. “It would be, Honored Drof-Avion, if we were being formal, but no formalities, we are family. Call me Drof.” Jay, knew of the tradition of steepling his fingers, but he held out a hand anyway. Drof engulfed his hand, shook it, and let go. “Here’s the journal you requested.” John took it. “Drof, we still can’t figure out what I was trying to tell my Grandson.” “Let me review the play back, and see if I can find something. The things that stand out, seem to me, a desperate situation that required desperate decisions.” “That’s indicative to all our situations,” Athene-A blurted from behind them.

“True. Genetic manipulation has gone on since the beginning,” Drof added. “A common theme would be, advancing faster that our wisdom to use it,” Athene-A pondered. Pandor-A had been sitting quietly in the corner. “Perhaps, we should move on and try again. This session has revealed very little.” John flipped through the book. “It’s not here.” “What is...not there?” Athene-A asked. “Near the time Icarus was to explode, I saw bipedal light figures in the ship placing something on it. Drof, I saw your Grandfather, and Samari-A, disappear before the ship exploded.” “Well, let’s find out,” Drof said, and then moved his hand over a console and fast forwarded the recording. “You are correct, it is not here.” “But I saw it, too,” Athene-A, said a little confused. “And I, too,” Jay excitedly said. “I would hypothesize that although the human mind is a recorder, it is much more than that,” Pandor-A recited in her own voice, “It records everything real, and imagined.” “So, you’re saying we imagined that whole part?” John questioned her reasoning. “Maybe not imagining, but manipulating, wanting them to survive so badly that your mind’s eye made them survive.” “If that’s the case, then how can we trust any of the results we’ve experienced?” John put the book down. “I believe these deceptive illusions are most active during stress, perhaps the machine program can be refined.” “How do you explain Solest’s rapid decay soon after the incident. That’s not

imaginary.” “Yes, but how it started may be.” “I could simply extract the memories,” Rhe-A said, “but it would leave him a slightly lower form of vegetable than he is already.” “Hey, I’m still here, and what’s with the freakish fetish of yanking my brains out?” Jay argued as he stood up to her, only to face as high as her chest. “It was funny at first, but now you’re getting personal.” She folded her arms. “I think I liked him better when he was docile.” “I think I liked you better when you were Rhea Wilkenson.” “Alright you two, we have more important things to deal with,” John said, as he quietly calmed them down. Jay turned to John. “Maybe we can continue this tomorrow night.” “Yes, I think you’re right.” John looked troubled. “We have a lot of data to go over. Pan, help Rhe-A reconfigure the computer parameters to eliminate the...imagination?” “Very well,” Rhe-A said, giving Jay a slight smile before she turned to her console.

Chapter Six: Temporal Storage Jay slipped quietly into his airbed covers, and dozed off. His mind still had residual effects from the mental connection. He tossed restlessly around until the sun came up. He heard the Professor rousting everyone awake. He poked his head in the tent. “Come along, Mr. Rodgers, I want to see more of that enthusiasm.” Jay sat up, putting his head in his hands. “Yeeha.” The sarcasm was not lost on the Professor, he shook his head, and moved on. The chow hall tent flaps were tied to the side as Jay walked in. Most everyone was there, except Shelly. He half expected to be assaulted by her. When she set her mind to something, it was almost impossible to change it. He ate his usual breakfast, and then went to his assigned area. Sweat rolled off of Jay’s forehead, when he strained to pull a rock out of a trench wall. He got it up onto the ground above his head, but it balanced precariously on the edge. He climbed out, and shoved the rock with his foot. It began to roll down the hill toward another working group. “Damn,” he said, and chased after it. Catching up to it halfway down, he stumbled and fell, soon after, it rolled over his leg slowing its progress enough for him to stop it. While rubbing his leg, he could hear the group down below laughing and pointing. He shrugged his shoulder, and then let the rock go. It bowled through their work area, causing half a dozen of them to jump aside. It was Jay’s turn to laugh. Jay was getting up when he stopped. “There it is again, that feeling, like a warm current in cold water,” he said to himself, while he started to dig. He raced back for a shovel, and had a sizable hole dug when the professor showed up. “Mr. Rodgers, would you mind explaining to me why you’re out of your section?” “Uh, well, the way I see it, if that is a temple, and the correct time period, it would make these people interested in celestial bodies, thus, here would be a point of the summer solstice.” The Professor was baffled, but intrigued. “I dare say, Mr. Rodgers, that you have

lost your-” Jay’s shovel hit something hard. He reached down and wiped away the dirt. Strange hieroglyphs took shape on a stone background. The Professor smiled and grunted when he knelt down to help. Jay had never seen the man dig a hole in his life, so this must be important. They dug until sundown, and to the point of exhaustion, as fifteen feet of stone stairs were cleared. The steps descended at a thirty-five-degree angle. Jay moved his light to an area where he recognized the symbols, and realized he’d just made a terrible mistake. “Okay, folks,” Jay started, “I think it’s time to call it a night.” “But we’re so close,” the Professor enthusiastically said. “We’re worn out, we’re done, unless you want someone able to help you tomorrow, we should rest.” The crowd moaned in agreement. “Very well,” the Professor conceded.

Jay moved quietly out of camp, amiss the snoring and mumblings of sleep talking people. In no time, he was on his way to Chrysalis. Tired, he sat in the pilot’s chair and studied the controls as he went. “We’re glad you made it back,” Athene-A said, escorting him to the med-lab. He walked into the well-lit sterile room, only to see John, Drof, and Pandor-A. “Where’s Rhe-A?” “On another assignment,” John said, as he stood up. “Besides, how hard can it be?” “Uh, well, real hard. She may be a pain in the ass, but she seems to know her job.” “I’m joking. I hope I wasn’t boring as your Grandfather?”

“You were anything but. Anyway, I think I screwed up. I felt something in the ground and started digging. I found a staircase with your hieroglyphs on it. The Professor saw it, along with the rest of the crew.” “Interesting, do you know its coordinates?” Jay told him, and then he spoke to his computer. “It’s one of our old monitoring sights. It should be empty.” “It’s not. I sense something in there.” “It’s possible something was left behind. Those we’re chaotic times.” John waved a hand over the console. “John to Aidan, could you come to the infirmary?” John turned to Jay. “We need to continue here.” Aidan walked in taking up most of the doorway. “You asked for me?” the bullman asked, starring at Jay. “Yes, my friend, I have a job for you.” John took a handheld, handed it to him, and said, “I need you to take a team and go to the dig sight, sabotage the area around these coordinates. We may have left some evidence of our existence there. Uh, no casualties.” Jay could’ve sworn he saw Aidan smile. “As you wish. It is a pleasure to meet you again, descendant of Captain Athain.” Jay sucked down his fear, and approached the giant and held out his hand. “Pleased to meet you, too.” Aidan reached out and shook his hand. Jay noticed the hand was as soft as his, and warm. Fear dissipated when he let go. “We will leave now,” Aidan said, and left. “Wow.” “They are great soldiers, and great friends. I doubt we would’ve survived without them. Now, shall we get started.”

The white light was almost blinding, as John floated around in limbo. He tried to

focus, but his mind kept drifting around, while pictures kept flashing all around him. The past memories would sometimes be in motion, while others would flash a 2-dimensional image. The pictures would float by just out of reach until he finally saw a motion picture of the Command Deck of the space ship Atlantis. He reached for it in the weightlessness of the white space that surrounded him. He couldn’t reach. He focused his concentration on the window into the Command Deck. Slowly, he began to move toward it. It wasn’t long before his hand felt the window seal edges. He now had a hold of something he thought was solid. Putting both hands on the edges, he floated feet first into the open window. John suddenly felt gravity, and all his senses came back to life. He stood there looking around the massive Command Deck. The sights and sounds of the central nervous system of the vast ship was just as he ed them, except there were no people anywhere within sight. Captain John-Anee-Athain, once the great Captain of the mighty space ship Atlantis, now a small speck on the cosmic windshield, wandered around Atlantis’ Command Deck checking on things that didn’t need to be checked on. The suspended animation dimensional rift they encomed was only limited by their own minds. Anything imagined in the containment field device felt real. He had no concept of time as he moved around the Captain’s command section in the upper center portion of the coliseum. The panoramic forward view screen only showed a moving starscape that he had witnessed a thousand times. Jay watched from a short distance, as John failed to notice him. Jay felt like a ghost on a ghost ship. He moved in closer, but knew he was only an observer here. John walked around feeling safe enough to reminisce. Jay could not only see what John was doing, but also what he was thinking. When he thought of the Destroyers, the ones who had driven him, and his kind to the situation they were in now: hiding in a hole after Atlantis was chased away, leaving them stranded on a beautiful planet with plenty to offer. Except, the freedom to leave and live without fear of being destroyed in a moment’s notice. Jay felt the fear and the realness of a devastating enemy. Atlanteans, or Terrahanians, as they were known before the great exodus from Terrah when their sun went supernova, had been on earth for thousands of years living a peaceful life without fear of the Destroyers, who they thought they had evaded. Once they were discovered, Atlantis had no choice but to run leaving the Captain and thousands of citizens behind. The one thing that could’ve saved

them was a crystal skull, known as the key. The key was of alien origin, that, not even the Atlanteans knew who they were; they just referred to them as ‘the Inquisitors.’ The Inquisitors had given them many gifts, most notably, advanced technology. With this technology they were able to escape the Destroyers by jumping from the Andromeda Galaxy to the Milky Way Galaxy. Once here, it was thought the menace was gone forever, until they appeared in the sky’s over Earth. John’s memories flowed evenly as his thoughts became life like. Atlantis was caught off guard, and with many Atlanteans off ship to attend the trial of a former Council of 100, Aztek-Alon, who was being tried for enslaving the native populous. Who, themselves, had been given Atlantean genes to help them survive. At the time, the key to the enormous defense grid was in the hands of the renegade Councilor. The centuries old defense grid was a large number of power point systems placed all around the solar system, with enough power in the Agoam power crystals to assure the destruction of the Destroyers. The key was needed to activate the grid, but Aztek-Alon, in all his arrogance, refused to divulge its location. Thus, causing Atlantis to flee, leaving him and the stragglers behind. The Destroyers pursued Atlantis leaving the Earth-bound group alive as bait, as to draw out the ship and destroy all of them, at a later date. Jay just marveled at the size of the ship, at times, he forgot it was a space ship. Atlantis was so large she could have been classified as a continent. Her tectonic plate gravity stabilizers kept the Earth together when she landed. When she left in such a hurry no precautions were taken, and the ship caused a tear in the planet’s surface leaving death and destruction in her wake. John re-lived that day as if were yesterday, the sky blackened as earthquakes shook the ground and toppled everything they had built. Fire fell from the sky to complete the destruction. Jay unconsciously ducked out of the way of falling debris. He could literally smell smoke and feel the heat. Aztek-Alon, in the confusion, escaped with the knowledge of the location of the key. It took months for the air to clear. The survivors massed together, and with the help of their Earth-born Cousins, began to rebuild. They scavenged all the technology they could find, and after thirty years, built a Temporal Storage Matrix Device, to house them timelessly until either the key was found, or Atlantis felt strong enough to return and defeat the Destroyers on her own. Before the hideaway was built, many Atlanteans chose to take their chances in the real world and live life with the indigenous population, and split from the

group. They left amicably, and their history is now unknown to John. He silently wished them the best of luck. The ones that chose to stay numbered in the thousands. All had hopes of a better future. One complication was the Temporal Storage Device had a perceived flaw of leaking souls. Should a physical presents outside the temporal matrix have an energy signature similar to one inside the storage device, the energy signature would unite with a body in the real world. This phenomenon hadn’t happened yet, at least not that John had noticed. As he thought about what had happened, some of it would show across the large forward screen. John’s thoughts went back to the Destroyers and how much grief they had caused, suddenly they appeared on the forward screen. He was startled for a moment as the glossy black bat wing shaped ship loomed in the distance. He moved to the weapons console near the third row of consoles to his left. He pressed a few buttons, and energy weapons, rockets, and all manner of destruction rained down on the enemy ship. It rocked and then tilted. It glowed bright orange just before it unceremoniously exploded leaving nothing but debris as the light faded away. “If it were only that easy,” John said, using this imaginary ploy to keep from losing track of reality, or his sanity. He felt a little disconcerted about not knowing what time it was, or how much time had ed, so he began to experiment. He imagined himself in the rain forest on board Atlantis, without any indication of travel, he found himself there. Jay followed like a haunting specter. The wind was lightly rustling through the trees as sounds of birds and other animals were heard. He imagined himself in Acropolis, Atlantis’ largest city community, and he was instantly there. The city was just as he ed it, except there were no people. He imagined himself all over the ship, he then began to expand his travels to Earth, and the time before the Destroyers came and drove off Atlantis. The sight was just as he imagined, if Helenas were still on top of Atlantis looking over the horizon with its countless blooming beautiful plants. Poseidon, an ancient hero, who’s family still existed, stood statuesque, pointing to the horizon. It was a shame this was all gone, rolled off the back of Atlantis as she fought to get into orbit. John concentrated on his computer expert, Pandor-A. He called her name out loud. She promptly appeared behind him.

“Captain, you called,” she calmly said, as her bright blue eyes, dark long hair and olive tan face just stared at him. “Pandor-A! Is it really you? Or is it my imagination?” “I don’t know. Probably won’t know for sure until we can talk in the real world,” she stated, as she looked around. “Helenas, was beautiful before…no wonder you recall this familiar part of your memories.” “What did you recall before I called you? Even though you may be saying what my mind wants you to say.” “True. I was trying to recall my years before the Sphere, and who made it, so I could better understand how we got to this point,” she sighed. “What do you want to know?” The surrounding scene vanished away only to be traded for the Command Deck. John was sitting comfortably in his command chair while Pandor-A was sitting next to him noticing the change of venue. “So,” John started again, “we won’t know if we are actually communicating until we leave the Temporal Storage Device?” “I believe so.” “What do we do while we’re here?” “I would suggest things that exercise the mind. Stay busy thinking, and no, I have no idea what day it is, or how long we’ve been here.” “Are you reading my mind?” “This is your mind. What do you think?” “I don’t know. You’re in my mind, you tell me what I’m thinking.” “I’m not in your mind, per say, I’m…” she stopped, “you’re playing with me, aren’t you?” “You said to exercise my mind.”

Pandor-A huffed as she got up. “I’m leaving now, goodbye Captain,” she said, disappearing with no sound, or flashes of light. Jay listened to John’s mind as he rehashed his Grandfather’s story, but this was much better than the aural description, he wished he had some popcorn, and all this would be perfect. He stayed patient as John spent his dimensional time enjoying the peace and quiet of no serious command decisions, or being responsible for so many lives every single day. He wondered how Atlantis was doing, was she holding her own against the Destroyers, or was all this a futile attempt to survive. The Destroyers may just be experimenting with them, like lab rats, until they tire of them, and then simply snuff them out like a candle. He pushed his negative thoughts aside, and enjoyed his carefree days, often bringing Athene-A, and some of the other command personnel along for company. He still didn’t know if it was really his friends, or his imagination. It wasn’t long before John started to become bored, and started wishing his selfimposed incarceration would end. The area around the Command Deck started to become bright white, and closing in from all sides, disintegrating all the imagined solid objects around him. John started to become anxious, as if being caught in a trap. He calmed himself and waited for the inevitable. The area he now stood in felt solid under his feet, but no other characteristics could be seen other than the bright white mist. Soon the mist began to pull back and fade away, revealing the of the crew that were slated to emerge from Temporal Storage Device at their predetermined time. The white room solidified to show people standing around looking at each other. John noticed; Athene-A looked the same. Pandor-A stood next to Drof-Avion as they looked at each other in confusion. Rhe-A and Delphi-Apollo were the first to actually move toward John. Jaraid was next to V’Rella and Subriasa. V’Rella’s green tinted complexion and emerald dreadlocks looked somewhat strange against the blue tight fitting environmental jumpsuit, which was the most common attire for the Atlanteans. Subriasa wore the same type of Jumpsuit that covered the mostly pale and black sporadic spots on her horse half, except the tail was exposed. Her brown hair was tied back neatly revealing her pointy ears, the upper human half showed little emotion, as she greeted everyone with a nod. John looked around to see Manatock appear out of the mist. The Minotaur was a great descendent of Enalphria, who was the first Minotaur to meet the Atlanteans. The lightning bolt

shaped white spot on his forehead accentuated his typical black bullhead. The glossy black horns and deep black eyes glistened as the huge muscular bull-man ed the crowd. “Hello crew. It’s good to see you all again. I think I’m seeing you,” John, said a little confused. “What do we do now?” Athene-A asked Pandor-A. “Patience,” was all she said. It wasn’t long, in their , before a single black spot appeared a few feet away from the crowd. It grew like and ink spot on a piece of paper until it formed an edge, then another, until a black rectangle the size of a door stood in front of them. John looked at Pandor-A, who held out her hand in a motion for him to go first. John took the lead and moved to the black door. He put his hand through, and it disappeared, as if sticking it in black sludge. He didn’t know why, but he held his breath as he pushed on through, only to be met with stale cool air when he finally took a breath, and a dimly lit cave. John moved on down the couple of steps to the cave floor and looked around. He then moved away from the device to let the others by. Jay was the last, he could feel the coolness, and smell the mustiness. He wondered around as if he was a lost tourist. Pandor-A moved to the main control console and turned up the cave luminescence. The light revealed a stuffy cave with fallen rock debris all around, and a thick coat of dust on everything. Pandor-A dusted off the console and examined the device. The cave gave off an abandoned feel as if more time had ed than they had planned. Pandor-A was busy checking the TSD for malfunctions as the rest made their way to their respective areas. Most of them took a few minutes to reorient themselves, and then began their investigation of the area they left behind all those centuries before. John reassured everyone, and then let them continue with their pre-assigned jobs. Athene-A followed John over to Pandor-A, while she worked to power everything up. “Pan,” John said, walking up beside her, “when are we?” “According to the computer, one thousand years, give or take a few minutes for divergent orbital variance variables.”

“So…Pan. Did we actually converse while we were in the TSD?” John asked curiously. “Did you tease me about exercising your mind?” “Yes,” John said, surprised. “Well, I guess we can share consciousnesses for awhile,” she said, and then went back to work as if the discovery was an everyday occurrence. John looked at Athene-A, they both got an embarrassing look on their faces. “Ah…Hmm,” John stuttered, and looked away. “I should go check on the others.” “Yes…I need to check the status of the satellites,” Athene-A muttered, as they tried to move around each other, without looking at each other. John moved through the large cavern to an equally large one adjacent to it. He was strolling over to Drof, who was working at a computer terminal near a cave wall and heard someone yell. “Watch out!” John slowed his pace and looked in the direction of the shout, only to run chest first into the invisible shuttle. “Humph,” was all he said, bouncing back, rubbing his cheek. “Are you okay?” Manatock asked, as he approached. “Yes, just a little embarrassed. Drof!” John yelled through the invisible shuttle. John could see the back of his dark baldhead slightly moving back and forth, which he quickly recognized as laughter. “Put some warning lights up somewhere, for safety.” This only made him laugh longer. John quickly moved to another section of the cavern rubbing his face. He moved from place to place as more people began coming out of the Temporal Storage Device, to begin the cleanup, and needed repairs. At first it appeared most, if not all, the equipment was functional and fully charged from being inactive for so long. John was starting to get concerned about the amount of people that wanted to stay out of the TSD. He didn’t know if the food processors were capable of handling this many. The air and waste recycling were now being booted up and would be online in a matter of minutes. The largest parts of the maze of tunnels were coming to life. The activity was a

refreshing sight from the last stagnant thousand years. He marveled at his people working without hesitation. The sight and sounds of life permeated all through the cavern, as if it were a living, breathing ship. A couple of days of preparation and it would be time to see what was outside. The new-cloaked satellite would be the first thing out, in order give them a clearer view of what was out there. He couldn’t help but be concerned that the Destroyers were just waiting for them to emerge from hiding so they could simply exterminate them. Much like they did to the Settler’s Fleet thousands of years ago.

Jay felt, more than saw, the age of time. The following cave-day met with a flurry of activity as the satellite was being prepared for launch. John sat in a control center much like the Command Deck of Atlantis, albeit, much smaller. He watched the screen, as the exit hole was re-drilled near the signal generator, that had been sending a random signal in all directions of space. The signal generator, was only one of many, set randomly across the globe, to assure a signal got out, even if it fell on deaf ears. John watched as the drill melted the rock until it broke the surface, and then quietly slid back down into its cradle to be moved back to its storage area. The satellite was now being moved into position as the launch sequence was initiated. The technicians pushed a few crystals and stood back. The teardrop shaped satellite’s antigravity units took over and the harness was removed. The satellite floated to a vertical position as the pointy end shot upward. The satellite faded from view, as the cloak took over, and only a brush of air could be felt, as the invisible satellite blasted off for orbit. “We have a stable geosynchronous orbit,” Athene-A said, manipulating crystals to achieve optimum performance from the satellite. “Not much of a weather change in the area where Atlantis settled. The Earth has healed itself much faster than I would have thought possible. No sign of any technological energy signature outputs.” “Any energy output signature for the key?” John hopefully asked. The key he knew was a vital piece of their survival. The crystal skull he had commandeered from the Sphere had been the one item sophisticated enough to hold the targeting program for the solar system defense platforms that were built on planets, and moons, throughout the system. It had been missing since the end of the ‘Alon

War’ and just before the appearance of the Destroyers. The skull was the key to Earth, and Atlantis’ defense, without it they had no chance at all to defeat the system murderers. “Negative on the signature, but its energy output is so minuet we would have to be nearly on top of it to identify it,” Pandor-A recited. “Understood,” John sullenly said. “Zoom in on our position. Let’s see what’s around us.” Athene-A manipulated the 3-dimentional topographical landmass pictures to show their immediate area of a one-thousand-mile radius. “We still have large predators, no newcomer Cousins for a least a fifty-mile radius.” She sounded sad, “Athens is abandoned, and almost indistinguishable from the surrounding area. If we want to go out and get supplies, I’m not detecting anything that might hinder our activities.” “How many people are out of the TSD?” John asked. “About a thousand,” Pandor-A answered. “Good, let’s keep it at that number for now. Start organizing supply parties and make sure they’re armed. If there’s no choice, they have the right to kill whatever’s attacking them.” “Understood. The orders have been sent out,” she stated. John watched the 3-D screen map of the cavern complex. A red spot appeared outside two of the tunnel entrances as the burrowing machine made quick work of the collapsed tunnel. “The tunnel entrances will be open within the hour,” Athene-A informed. “When will the shuttle bay doors be free?” John asked. “Also, within the hour,” Athene-A quickly answered back. “Good, let’s get a ten-person team together and see what we’ve left behind,” John instructed and then made his way to the shuttle bay.

He went into the shuttle bay portion of the cavern to see the sleek looking atmospheric, and space flying machine. He gave it a wide berth and moved a little slower as to not run into anything invisible that Drof might have left behind. He approached Drof, while he was going through the preflight checklist. “Hey, old man. How much longer?” John said to get a spark out of him. Drof looked up. “Who are you calling old?” He shot back with a smile. “Ready when you are.” John was finally feeling alive again. The excitement of getting out of the cave and to actually see what had happened over the last thousand years was making him feel young again. Even though his age, and appearance, hadn’t changed since the day he stepped foot on Earth. He gathered up his expeditionary equipment and took his seat with the rest of the shuttle inhabitants. Subriasa began strapping into her specialized restraint slings, as V’Rella took a regular seat with the rest of the humans and minotaurs. The lone cyclopean was wrestling with the adjustment restraints of the human sized chair to fit his girth. After everyone was seated and buckled in, except Allerisu Stonebreaker, who was still grunting and adjusting the chair, drawing everyone’s attention. Allerisu gave a disarming smile that spread across his face bigger than his eye. “Uh, I’m good. Let’s go.” Athene-A, Rhe-A, Jaraid, and Pandor-A, all smiled as they checked their own equipment. John secured the hatch and gave the indication that they were ready for dust-off, and then took his seat. The shuttle rose silently off the floor, just as the hanger doors creaked open like a clamshell. The shuttle gracefully slid down the tunnel until it reached what appeared to be a dead end. Drof pressed a crystal and the rock wall rolled aside to reveal another tunnel. They proceeded a short distance when a bright bluish light opened up to reveal an Earth much like the one, they had left. Drof engaged the cloak as they left the tunnel and gained altitude. They could only tell the ship was accelerating or banking left, by looking out of the windows. After takeoff, the seats that lined both sides of the craft were now able to swivel toward the center of the ship so the opposite sides could face each other. John pressed a few buttons on his handheld, and a 3-D topographical view of the area materialized. They unstrapped and circled the large map floating in front of

them. Drof had put the shuttle in a circular search grid pattern with their base as the starting point. He made his way back to the group and helped identify the local differences. They were looking for Atlanteans who might have survived this long, Atlantean technology that might have been missed, newcomer Cousins, and most of all, the key. They expanded their search for several hours making note of several nearby settlements of humans, Centaurs, Minotaurs and Cyclopes, but there was no sign of any Medusan physiology. A short while later, John noticed a settlement with a large column of smoke rising from it. He had Drof break off the search pattern to go and investigate. As they moved in closer, they could detect a large group of Minotaurs moving away from the devastated site. The Minotaurian group ed some human inhabitants within the crowd. John had Drof land near the destruction of the makeshift village. They donned on their equipment and prepared to leave the shuttle. The area had already been scanned, and they knew there were no living creatures bigger than a rodent for miles. They still cautiously moved to the area of smoke and ash. As they closed in, they could see the destruction. The first thing they noticed was the telltale smell of burning flesh. They slowly entered the razed village that was still smoldering. Newcomer Cousins lay strew all over the place, some with severed limbs, and large pools of blood that had already soaked into the ground. They moved through the nomadic design of the settlement. Men, women, and children had been systematically massacred, some still burning where they lay. Some lie in the fetal position, but most showed defensive wounds. They didn’t go quietly. The group had found evidence of Minotaurian involvement, but weren’t absolutely positive they were the aggressors, or just part of the human tribe. Then they saw it, at the edge of the battle, a Minotaur was seen with a spear piercing the inside of his mouth extruding out of the back of its head; the spear was held by a human Cousin, who had a wooden spear sticking through his chest held by the Minotaur. Both lay there locked in mortal combat for eternity. Manatock’s deep voice broke the silence, “I deduce that both our lineages have digressed back to the most primitive of attributes. They’ve learned to efficiently

kill each other.” “Yes, that they have. I was hoping for a more peaceful situation, maybe just using sticks and stones to hunt for food, forgoing technology, and enjoying life on this beautiful planet,” John said, and then he sadly walked away. They unhappily took readings, trying to learn all they could about the ones they left behind. Rhe-A took DNA samples to determine how fast the Cousins were advancing. John felt the results bittersweet, as he learned that technological advancements were only slightly above the point at which they entered the TSD. This was at least good, in order to keep the Destroyers away, or uninterested. Because if their advancement evolved above space travel beyond their own solar system, the Destroyers would probably destroy the whole planet, anyway. Which was their pattern of destruction since they were first encountered. But their slow advancement was also bad because there was large-scale abuse, and suffering. Domination by the strong ruled the day. They returned back to their mountain hideout to form a plan with all the new information they had acquired. More construction was underway to accomplish what they wanted to do undetected. More and more people were brought out of the TSD that had specialized skills. The place was hustling with activity, more cavern was dug out to make room for more covert activities. The plans were being drawn up to facilitate everyone. The cavern was becoming a sealed environment much like a ship in space. The Council approved the plans for the Industrial Section, and the Machine Section to be combined to conserve power, and space. In the near future there would be no rainforest, and a much smaller Ecological Section. They were going to develop a Farm Section, similar to the one the Settler’s developed on Tundra, another galaxy, and another lifetime ago. Food, for now, was to be gathered, and processed through the organic manipulator processors. Organic material could be stored on a molecular level. As long as the processor had power, it would never spoil, and the food sequencers could be programmed to suit any palate. Pandor-A retuned to disarray. The computer systems that controlled the facility were still working independently. She began building a staff to conserve, and combine, all the systems into a more centralized unit. She wasn’t detoured. She set about her task with determination, but not much enthusiasm.

Athene-A went right into her design and construction mode. She marched around, much like Pandor-A, giving orders, and redeg components all over again, depending on the current problem. They were all acting as though they had just been released from prison, maybe they had been. John was beginning to wonder if he was going to be able to force himself back into to the TSD, if they couldn’t find the key. Concealment was the order of the day, and everyone was working toward that goal. John was going to hold a forum on how long they should stay out of the TSD. He was now beginning to realize why the other Atlanteans wanted to live out their lives naturally. He didn’t understand it before, but now things were different. Being mortal again had a way of changing your mind. Maybe the Atlanteans who stayed behind knew what they wanted out of life, to feel as though they were apart of nature again; perhaps they just wanted to live the way humans were supposed to live. John understood, but he still had an obligation to his people to do whatever necessary to insure their survival. He may never accomplish this task, but he felt it was the one thing he was born to do. Jay felt time , again. The forum was held the following day. The reports showed plenty of raw materials, except Agoam crystals, they were in short supply. Systems that could run on lower technical energy sources were going to be constructed. The planet’s core was already being tapped so it only made sense to expand that energy source. The overall plan was simple: make life as comfortable as possible, not draw attention to themselves, while they waited, searched for, and recovered the key. Recover any Atlantean technology left behind, thus, preventing its use by their Cousins. Drof suggested more shuttles, or at least a spare, in case of an emergency. Construction on several different things began at once. The Council, for the most part, would allow anyone out of the TSD, as long as they had relatively the same number that went back in. The population, for now, had to be kept at a minimum. The more area they excavated would eventually allow for more people. Those not dealing with critical items were asked to rotate more frequently. After the plans were made and agreed upon, John could’ve returned back into the TSD, but he found that he liked living in the real world, as it was becoming to be called. He constantly volunteered to go out on search missions. It wasn’t long before a map of people migration was laid out. The segregation was almost complete. The Medusans were found, and seem to be territorially surrounded by

many other factions. Each species had its own border skirmishes with one another, either for territory, resources, or just plain hatred. The technological level of the warring factions had remained at the point of sticks and stones. The Minotaurs had the size and brute force advantage. They seemed to be thriving the best of all the groups. Jay wasn’t sure if it was, he, or John sitting in the shuttle cabin going over some topographical 3-D mapping. He was trying to come up with a solution to the Medusan situation. The group’s population was reaching critical levels for sustained existence. Their Medusan counterparts were asking him to help them. John continued to study the situation as the shuttle flew its automated search pattern with only a few volunteers that wanted to ride along. The invisible ship slid across the area about a thousand miles north of their base’s position. While the other shuttle was still being constructed, so the search was long and tedious. John thought he had a temporary solution for the Medusan problem. There was fertile ground, ripe for colonization several hundred miles northwest of their present location. If the Medusans could be convinced to move, they might have a better chance at survival. The computer estimated it would take centuries for any other species to reach that position. Hopefully, by then they could defend themselves. John was deep in thought when he heard a beeping noise from the flight deck. He looked at his companions in surprise; he then quickly climbed into the flight deck seat. He pushed a few buttons, bringing up the information the sensors had detected. The energy detection was not consistent with the key, but was detecting Atlantean technology. He programmed the shuttle to circle the area, but before he could implement the command, the signal was gone. He worked to get it back, but it had vanished as if it had been turned off. He reduced altitude, and started circling the area of the detection, hoping it wasn’t some false alarm, or some Earth anomaly. He took over manual control and decided to look for himself. The invisible shuttle slowed and ed over a mountaintop. What John saw surprised him, again.

Chapter Seven: We have a problem Way down in a heavily wooded valley next to a river was a large wooden pyramid. A large section of woods had been decimated to build it. A large village of Cousins, and a mix of other races, were also detected. He circled, taking close up recordings to take back to the Council, in order to decide what to do with the new found information. He banked the shuttle around and headed back to their base in a roundabout way, as to throw off any would-be followers. As John and crew raced back to the base, he called ahead for an emergency Council meeting, and a plan to recover the Atlantean technology he was sure was there. Athene-A wanted to go, but John thought it not wise to have so much leadership in possible harm’s way. Pandor-A was still hip deep in the computer system, and Drof wanted to finish the new shuttle, which was supposed to have upgraded sensors, and some weaponry. John’s plan was simple, just as he liked it. They were going to land close, locate the technology, remove it, and get out. He knew he wouldn’t have to disguise the other species, because they still looked the same as their primitive counterparts. Atlanteans were another story; their sheer height alone would give them away. Ideas were ed around until two were viable: one was to change their own genetics to match their Cousins’ height; the other was to develop a more centralized cloaking field. John didn’t care much for the first. He wasn’t quite ready to give up the height, and strength advantage. It wasn’t long before the combined efforts of a lot of people produced the first working model of the Individual Cloaking System. It was small, and could be easily attached to the equipment belt most everyone wore. The system worked the same way as Atlantis’ and the shuttle’s cloak. It would bend, reflect, or deflect light patterns around a specific area. Each system had its own individual beacon code that it sent out just in case an individual was incapacitated, so another person could find them. The one drawback was that the system required Agoam crystals, and they were in short supply. John was happy with the system and had it put into production, while he studied the area they were going to invade. It was a very defensible area surrounded on three sides with mountain ranges. An invading ground army would have to come through one area, thus creating a choke point. Going over the mountain range

would be extremely difficult. An army of any size would be seen well in advance eliminating the purpose of element of surprise. John wondered if this was planned, or just a coincidence. One of the satellites had been focused in the area in question, and revealed Minotaurs to be the taskmasters. They wiped and beat large groups of humans and smaller groups of Medusans. There was no sign of Centaurs or Cyclops. John wanted to quietly get in and identify the Atlantean technology, and either remove it, if possible, or destroy it. He wanted to leave as little trace of Atlantis as possible, hoping the Destroyers would lose interest, and perhaps stay away. He knew this was wishful thinking, but something had to be done to discourage their enemy.

A few days ed, John and his insurgent team were ready to go. He had three Minotaurs dressed in the same primitive armor so they could blend in, and get up close to the complex easier. Several ambitious Medusans, a Centaur, and Cyclops volunteered to go along. Drof’s new shuttle was still in work, so he chose to stay behind again, Athene-A stayed, but continued to argue her case right up until the end. Jeraid-Agathon, in his grief of being separated from his wife for so long, chose to live with her memory in the Temporal Storage Device. Rhe-A, and Xen-Acrates volunteered to go along. Having only one shuttle would make things cramped. Pandor-A approached John about the technology signature they had picked up earlier. “Captain,” she said, as he turned to face her. “Yes Pan. What do you have for me? And you don’t have to call me Captain anymore.” “Well, you’ll always be ‘Captain’ to me.” “Thank you.” “I studied the energy signature in the area you discovered. I spent so much time on that single signature, I didn’t expand my research, until recently. We have a defense grid power point within a half mile of that location.”

“Interesting. It appears our signature cloak is working very well. All the more reason to investigate,” John said, as he ed the power point coordinates. “I still have work to do here, so keep your comm open, and your head down,” she said, with mock authority. “Understood,” John said, returning the mock authority. He then put his hand on her shoulder, smiled and made his way to the shuttle. They were all buckled in, got the shuttle cloaked, and were airborne in minutes. The shuttle quickly zipped across the top of the trees and made short work of the distance to the target area. His team consisted of three uncloaked Minotaurs, Manatock, Aidan and Sorlak. Rhe-A, Xen, and himself, rounded out the original Atlanteans. Two Medusans; V’Rella and V’Rassa, a lone Centaur, Subriasa, and a Cyclops, Allerisu, all of which checked, and rechecked their equipment trying not to look nervous. John set the ship down in a deserted clearing near the large wooden structures. Xen stayed with the shuttle in case of an emergency extraction, while the others filed out and began marching through the woods. It wasn’t long before they reached the edge of the woods that had been cleared away to build the massive structure that lay before them. Hundreds, maybe thousands of workers, or a better description would be, slaves, were beaten as they labored to drag large logs up scaffolding to build a pyramid. The massive building was much more impressive in person than from the satellite observation. One corner of the wooden pyramid was built right to the edge of a cliff. A river wound its way around hundreds of feet below. John signaled for the ICS units to be engaged. The Minotaurs took the lead as people began to disappear around them. They made their way down a hill and into the compound of smaller wood buildings. Manatock and his companions looked confident as they walked through the stench and misery. The Atlantean Minotaurs were slightly bigger and taller than their uncivilized counterparts, who beat the humans and Medusans with large sticks, often driving them to the ground. John, and his group, struggled to hold their emotions in check. John whispered to Manatock. “Behind that building to your right.” Manatock nodded, and they went behind the building where there was relative privacy.

“Manatock,” John said, as Manatock turned toward the voice. “The sight of this is disturbing.” “Yes,” he said, trying to keep his boisterous voice low. “Distasteful. This way of life was our destructive past, it is not who we are now. To take advantage of a weaker species is disgraceful. We have for a very long time taken pride in countering this sort of uncivilized actions. I am dishonored by this sight.” John felt his pain. “Everyone…we are not here to change the way of things. Our mission is to recover Atlantean technology, and look for clues to the whereabouts of the key. Is that clear?” John could hear low mummers of agreement. He was also relieved to hear Manatock declare his allegiance to his comrades. Subriasa’s tracks made their way toward them through the smelly sludge. “My handheld is malfunctioning. I’m unable to get a fix on anything,” she whispered. Rhe-A broke in, “I don’t think it’s malfunctioning. Mine isn’t operating normally either. I think it’s being jammed.” “Great. Any idea where the entrance is?” John asked. Manatock spoke up. I’ve noticed a large cave entrance with a lot of activity. Maybe we should start there.” “Lead on,” John’s disembodied voice said. The group moved out. The Minotaurs spread out into the single file as to cover the other’s tracks. They weaved in and out of the mass of people, and logs that littered the ground waiting to be cut to fit the massive pyramid that rose in the distance. Manatock could be seen splashing dirt and mud on himself to further the illusion of blending in. His comrades did the same as inconspicuously as possible. They marched through the filth toward the cave mouth without incident. The Humans and Medusans did not make eye and kept their heads down. The slave masters seemed preoccupied with beating and snorting. The translators quickly picked up the guttural language and to no surprise it was threats and yelling. The slave masters’ single mindedness allowed the other Minotaurs to proceed unchallenged to the cave entrance.

Manatock started up the wood and sod steps, to approach the ten Minotaurian guards that blocked the entrance. They all carried very large sticks, some ornate with brightly covered stones at one end and a sharp point at the other. John had memories of the Cyclopean, General Harpooner, who cherished a staff similar to the ones the guards carried. His was much bigger, and more deadly. One of the guards stepped in front of Manatock and challenged him. “Why are you here?” The guttural voice of the guard blurted out. “We are new. We were told to report to the heaster for duties,” Manatock said with confidence. The guard looked him up and down, then at his companions. “Come with me,” was all he said, as he turned to the cave mouth. The group filed into the cave making sure not to bump into anyone, or anything else, as they made their way in the darkness. John could see his handheld had now become totally useless, so he put it away, and followed Manatock into the dimly lit cavern. They walked down the winding tunnels that turned left, and then right. The corridors began breaking off into different directions. The Minotaur guard plucked a lit torch from a hole that held it, and proceeded on his way. The guard didn’t talk as he led the way down. They ed laboring slaves, who flinched and moved faster in order to get by the guard without being noticed. Soon, the traffic lightened, and they came to a deserted section. Manatock without warning grabbed the guard and flung him into a dark alcove. The guard dropped the torch when he hit the ground, but just as quickly jumped back up before Manatock could take advantage. The guard’s crazy wild eyes fared as he rushed Manatock. He was ready as he kicked the guard’s staff to the side, and head butted the guard with shattering effect. The guard’s knees buckled; he fell to the ground unconscious. Manatock’s comrades, Aidan and Sorlak, quickly moved to a nearby wooden wall and took out their utility tools hidden in their clothing and cut rope from it. They tied the guard’s hands and feet, and then used the rope to muzzle him. They then unceremoniously picked him up and threw him behind a stack of logs. “Won’t they miss him?” John asked.

“I doubt they are that organized, besides, it felt good,” Manatock responded. John smiled even though he knew he couldn’t be seen. “Where to, now?” Rhe-A stepped forward and bumped into Subriasa. “Oh sorry. Captain, I was trying to use my handheld, but the interference was too bad, so I narrowed the bandwidth to only the interference. It’s clear now that it’s being generated, and its location is ing a general location.” “Very well then,” John said, “we follow the disturbance. Rhe-A lead Manatock to the disturbance.” “Understood,” they said in unison. Manatock bent down and picked up the staff, and they made their way out of the alcove. Rhe-A had her hand on Manatock’s arm and would pull, or push depending on the direction she wanted him to go. They came to a clearing that was well lit by torches, and the sound of loud cheers and yelling. They curiously looked down on the spectacle. Mostly Minotaurs, and a group of human servants, circled a large sand pit surrounded by a wooden fence that was spotted with bloody assorted wooden weapons. As they watched, a male Centaur was herded into the primitive arena. He ran in a panic from one end of the fence to the other, desperately searching for a way out. Then a horn sounded, a Minotaur leaped into the arena with his staff and a sharpened stone knife. The two circled each other once, and the Minotaur charged. The Centaur was spooked, and turned just as the Minotaur approached. The Centaur’s hind leg came up and kicked the Minotaur in the chest, sending him backward onto the ground. He rolled and got up, and with a furious howl, began to charge again. This time he leaped into the air high enough to be missed by the next kick. He landed on the Centaur’s back sending the man-horse running frantically along the wood picket-spiked fence. The Minotaur howled, and with one hand grabbed the Centaur by the hair pulling his head back, and with the other hand, drove the stone knife into his neck. The Centaur screamed in pain, and crashed into the fence causing them both to fall to the ground. The Centaur struggled to get up, but the blood loss was too great. His shaking and shivering soon stopped as the Minotaur sawed at its neck.

“Oh my,” Subriasa exhaled, trying not to make noise. Several humans ran out to the dead Centaur as the Minotaur severed its head, and raised it to the crowd. They went wild as the Cousins took pots, and began collecting the blood. The crowd was in a frenzy and the spectator Minotaur’s would occasionally gore a human who got to close. John’s stomach was turning as he watched the horrible display of barbarity. “ the mission,” he said, tearing himself away from the sight, and began moving further underground. They were making their way down, when Rhe-A whispered that they needed to go down a particular tunnel. They weaved around hundreds of worker slaves that moved logs into position to reinforce the walls and ceiling. The massive complex was by far more extensive than they imagined. They came to an abrupt stop, before them stood an artificial stonewall with a hole chiseled out. Rhe-A whispered. “This is the defense grid power point.” Manatock felt a brush of air as John stepped ed him into the hole. The two torches on either side of the entrance were not needed because of an eerie green glow of light that came from inside. John entered to see the familiar workings of Atlantean technology, but the main Agoam crystal unit was missing. The rest of the group followed John inside. He walked around the large oscillating gyro that lit the center of the room. Its motion was slow, letting the bands of circles barely rotated around each other. It made a low humming noise. He knew a malfunction when he heard one. He slowly moved around to the other side of the centerpiece toward the control station, only to find two red robed hooded humanoids studying the controls. They had the height of an Atlantean, and used handhelds. They spoke to each other in Atlantean, while one tried to remove another component from the control station. John backed up whispering, “Back to the entrance.” They gathered around the shattered entrance. “They look like Atlanteans, and they’re disassembling the defense grid. Most likely for their own purposes. V’Rella, can you use your pheromones to incapacitate them. I doubt they have been inoculated in quite some time.”

“As you wish,” her soft voice said, as John turned toward it. “The rest of you, ready your weapons. Let’s go.” V’Rella, and V’Rassa, slipped around the machinery and approached the hooded figures. Without a flinch they froze in place. John’s hunch was right. He deactivated his cloak as he walked up to the two. He slowly reached up and pulled the hood away from the closest one. John heard gasps from the group, as he stood stunned at the sight of the man that stood in front of him. His skin was pale and bluish, his eyes were so blood shot they looked black. His lips were gray as if he had been dead for several days. There were light blue veins that spread around his neck. His hair was thin and cut close to the scalp. John was starring at the creature when he felt something brush his mind. John slightly opened the door of his mind, causing a wave of memories to come crashing through. Even Jay flinched at the intrusive feeling. He focused all his mental strength to fighting back the onslaught. He pushed hard against the bashing of memories, and the mental energy that went with it. John put up his mental shield, and began deflecting the mental energy away, as he struggled to push the images back out of the door. He pushed forward as hard as he could until the door was within reach, that’s when he pushed the door shut cutting off the invasion. John slipped to the floor on one knee, and breathed heavily. Rhe-A, and the rest, approached him. She knelt beside him and checked his pulse. “They…they are Atlanteans,” John said, rubbing his head. “Their mental capabilities are strong when used together. Do not let them in.” John stood up and steadied himself. He reached over and took the odd-looking person’s handheld and gave it to Rhe-A, and then he took the other. The handhelds were old and crude, but they did the job. Rhe-A’s eyes widened as she read the information. “May the Great Creator forgive us. John thought this bad because she wasn’t prone to believe in an omnipresent being. “The genetic manipulation is very extensive, heightened coed mental capabilities, strength, all the senses are exaggerated, immune system, and a few others I can’t identify, just yet. Incredible…to the new modifications, the body has to have a regular infusion of fresh red blood cells as an energy source.” She stopped and looked at John in fear. “They resemble the old Terrahanian vampire jungle monkey. The ones that supplemented their diet with fresh blood from animals, or anything they could bring down.”

“Just great,” John said, as he starred into the darkened bloodshot eyes of the one in front of him. A blue hue circled the iris becoming only one of a few traces of Atlantean left. “I don’t recognize these two,” he said glancing back at the rest of the group, who by now had disengaged their own personal cloaks. The two young Minotaurs stood guard at the defense grid entrance, while the others conversed trying to unravel the mystery. John looked back at his Atlantean brother. “Rhe-A, is the fresh infusion of blood what has kept them alive all these centuries?” “Yes, the genetic manipulation has all the regenerative properties needed to sustain oneself…as long as you have a supply of blood…maybe indefinitely.” John looked back at the diseased looking man when he thought he saw his eyes move. John moved in closer starring into his eyes. They moved to focus on John, he didn’t even have time to flinch before the monster grabbed him by the throat, and picked him up off the ground. “Captain John-Anee-Athain. We were hoping you were dead.” “Sorry…to disappoint,” John said between breaths, “but…maybe this…will help.” John wrapped his legs around the crazed man, while he released one hand from his arm, doubled up his fist, and drove it into the creature’s face. The one’s in the group who had weapons, drew them. John was in their line of fire. He pounded the creature’s face, as he screamed, but didn’t let go. He hit him again; this time the creature grabbed John and threw him into the group, knocking Manatock and Rhe-A down. The hybrids moved with blinding speed, as the group fired at them. There were several hits, but it only seemed like bee stings to them. They hung on the walls and dodged the shots. John was helping Rhe-A up when the creature leaped from the wall aiming for John. Before mancreature could reach him, Manatock head butted him, and drove a horn into its side, pushing him to the ground. The creature brought his feet up and shoved Manatock off of him. V’Rella stood their firing her weapon at him repeatedly. This only enraged him more as he backhanded her into the wall, where she collapsed into a heap. Allerisu Stonebreaker pushed ed Manatock and grabbed the creature from behind in a bear hug. This drove the assailant even more crazy, as it clawed and scratched at its captor.

Manatock was up now, and looked back at the curve of the centralized machinery near the entrance. He saw, with horror, the second creature attacking one of the young Minotaurs, who was now on his back swinging at the incredibly strong being. “One is trying to escape and warn the others!” Manatock yelled, as he charged the creature. Before he could get there, Aidan jumped on the creature’s back trying to get him to release his comrade. The creature grabbed Aidan from behind and flipped him over his shoulder, landing Aidan on his back, knocking the wind out of him. The creature then pulled Sorlak’s snout up to expose his throat, and with one fluid motion sunk his overly large incisors into his neck. Sorlak’s scream soon turned to a gurgle, as blood shot out of his neck and mouth. The creature drank with gusto as if in a trance. It didn’t appear to notice, or care, when Manatock approached with the staff in hand. Manatock was horrified at the sight, but didn’t hesitate to bring the stick up and shove the sharpened end into the back of its head. The creature stopped, and raised its head to show about four inches of bloody stick protruding out of his forehead. His eyes rolled back, and he fell to the side. The first creature was still struggling to get free, causing Allerisu to start losing his grasp. He looked like a ballerina dancing with a desert bobcat in a transit station. “Rhe-A!” John yelled. “How do we incapacitate them?” “I don’t know if we can. I don’t think we have the firepower.” Allerisu was losing his grip from the wounds the creature was inflicting. “We must think of something fast,” he said with a grunt. The creature then reared its ugly head back and extended its fangs and sunk them into the Cyclops’s arm. Allerisu screamed as the creature slipped out of his grasp and dropped to the floor. Subriasa kicked at the flying assailant, but missed. He spied John, and then leaped through the air coming down on John, knocking him down on his back. The creature sat on top of him. John saw nothing but rage and hate, while he struggled to keep the monster at bay. “Surrender, or die,” John said, looking confidently into the degenerates eyes.

The creature hesitated, and then smiled like a predator who was about to devour its prey. He then tilted his head back, extending its fangs. John clicked the setting on his pistol, raised it up, and severed the head from the body of the once proud Atlantean. John rolled the body off of him. When he looked down, he saw the surprised look on the creature’s face. Dark blood oozed from the creature’s body, as John sat up. “Are you alright?” Rhe-A asked, helping him up. “Yes, I’m fine. Tend to the injured, oh, and take some blood samples.” He watched her take quick samples from the floor, and then went to Allerisu to patch him up. V’Rella was coming around with the help of V’Rassa. Manatock approached John. “The other one has been subdued, but Sorlak is dead, and Aidan is injured, he will recover.” “I’m sorry. Is there anything we can do?” “No, the damage was too extensive.” “Listen up people!” John said, looking around the room at the survivors. “We patch ourselves up, and then we head back to base. This is going to require more people and equipment than I thought. We’ll have to leave Sorlak and recover him when we return.” John heard a faint noise of water running over rocks. He looked for the sound’s origin, and then he looked down. His eyes widened at the sight of the first assailant’s blood start to coagulate, and then turn to strings and veins as they wriggled themselves from the body to the severed head. Suddenly, as everyone starred, the blood strings tightened up and pulled the head to the body, and immediately started to rapidly heal. Before John, or the others, could respond, the man-creature’s eyes opened, and he was back on his feet. He knocked John down again sending his weapon across the room. Everyone came alive and began shooting and screaming, again. Rhe-A was pushed over to the control the two modified Atlanteans were working on earlier. She noticed the main power crystal had been removed, but the highly volatile matter disturbance containment field was still active. She sent a message to Subriasa, either by body language or mentally, either way she got the message. The half horse person was reluctant at first, but she stopped shooting

and pulled the creature off of John. The monster went wild again thrashing and screaming. Subriasa did the unthinkable and turned her back on him. He charged. A two hoofed kick sent him across the room. Rhe-A pressed a crystal lowering the containment field just as a mass of flesh sailed into the chamber. Rhe-A quickly reinitiated the field and trapped the creature inside. The bands of gyros began circling faster and faster until the angry thing was chopped into single cells, and then disintegrated. Everyone stood there with shock on their faces, catching their breath. Rhe-A blew some hair out of her face and said, “We may need some radiation inoculations after that.” Then she went back to patching people up, as the rest began to get ready to leave. Aidan stepped around the machinery and yelled at the group. “Sirs, we have a problem over here!” John let out a sigh. “What now.” They moved quickly to the entrance, where Sorlak and the vampire creature lay. John starred down at the second assailant with the stick in its head, it began to twitch. They began to slowly pull out their weapons again, as slurping noise was heard coming from its head. The staff began to be pushed out of his head like a splinter from a finger. It fell out of his head, and he jumped up to borage of stun fire. It had no affect on him. He raced for the entrance that Aidan was standing in front of, and hit the young Minotaur square in the chest, almost knocking him through the entry way. The creature bounced back and yelled at the ceiling as if taking a large breath before charging again. Aidan didn’t know what to do, except stop the creature from leaving and warning the others. He glanced at the entrance torches on the wall, grabbed one, and then put it in the face of the vampire creature. He squealed, and stepped back as if afraid of the flames. John immediately recognized a weakness, as did the vampire. He made an almost blinding dash for the entrance again, this time he knocked Aidan down on his back, and landed on top of him. The torch flew out of his hand. He was about to deliver the killing blow when a stick protruded out of the front of mutant’s chest. The creature looked up in horror, grabbing at the portion of the staff sticking out in front of him. He got up screaming as his chest began to melt away. Manatock

held on to the staff for only a brief moment as the vampire’s eyes began to sink into its head. He gurgled while spitting up blood, and then collapsed on the floor, his chest all but eaten away like it had been splashed with sulfuric acid. Manatock picked up the staff, and prepared himself for another attack, but it didn’t come. The others approached carefully waiting for another surprise. “Rhe-A. Is he really dead, this time?” John apprehensively asked, as he kicked the body. She ran the crude handheld over him, cautious as not to get to close to something that should be dead, yet keeps getting up. She stood up studying the readouts, and faced John. “He’s dead. The cells have stopped regenerating.” “Why didn’t the staff kill him before?” Manatock asked. “Preliminary hypothesis is the staff is a special wood, perhaps Ash. The chemical composition of this type of wood is toxic to the specially designed heart, it seems to cause rapid cellular decomposition.” “So, after all their genetic manipulation to be super human, and indestructible, a simple stick to the heart will kill them,” John said, more to himself than he did to the group. “A design flaw perhaps,” Rhe-A gave an excuse. “It does have to be a specific type of wood.” “A design flaw, you sound like you ire these things,” Manatock said, a little perturbed. “The intricate genetic work in fantastic.” “Fantastic! Do you hear yourself? If I didn’t know…” “Very well,” John said, interrupting the debate. “Keep looking for weaknesses.” John started for the doorway. “We need to get out of here and…” He was interrupted by the sound of beating drums and blowing horns. “Engage your cloaks,” John ordered as everyone, except the two Minotaurs, faded into the background. “Let’s go,” John said from outside the entrance.

They started back the way they had come, only to be met by a large number of inhabitants. They were massing at the bottom of the cave, where the sound of the drums and horns were coming from. The sheer number of people was driving the Atlantean group further down the cavern. Manatock used his staff to keep them from bumping into the cloaked figures. There was no break in the crowd as they were driven to the bottom of the massive cavern. All the people began circling the outside of an even larger wood fenced arena. This arena was built differently, the wooden sticks to build it were formed in the shape of an X, having both sharp ends pointing in, and outside of the arena. Along the far side of the makeshift arena was a stage that sat up higher than the fence. It held several throne-like chairs side by side. The drummers and horn blowers were lined up on both sides of the stone throne chairs. The drums beat at a faster pace as the horns made loud animal noises. The Cousins began swaying side to side like they were in a trance. Manatock, and Aidan managed to keep an area clear for the cloaked figures, but the exit was blocked by a large number of Minotaurs. John moved around looking for a way out when he stumbled into a stone container, he tried not to make noise as he slowly tried to slip the lid back onto the container. The smell of its contents alerted him to a petroleum-based substance, probably to keep the torches lit. He continued to move around quietly trying to find a way out when the drums and horns reached a loud crescendo, and then abruptly stopped. He turned in the direction of the throne chairs as he was sure the others did as well. The torches started burning brighter as several red robed figures moved out of the shadows and stood in front of the chairs. A single drumbeat caused everyone in the cavern to kneel down and bow their heads. John was now given a straight view of the robed figures. One had an oversized staff with jewels encrusted all over it. He sat down, and was soon followed by half dozen other robed figures. The cavern was deathly quiet as the staff-carrying figure pulled back his hood. “Aztek-Alon,” John said, loud enough to draw some stray looks in his direction. Manatock and Aidan were kneeling as not to draw attention. Aztek-Alon pounded his staff on the wooden stage floor. The other robed figures removed their hoods. John immediately recognized Maya-A-Toltek. Sitting to his right. All the Atlanteans there had the same features as the two that attacked them earlier, except Maya’s hair was still raven black, which made her pale features that much more pronounced. Aztek-Alon was bald now and even looked crazier

than he was before. Aztek-Alon pounded his staff two times on the stage floor. Out from the sides of the stage came several humans followed by several larger humans, who had familiar collars around their necks. The smaller humans walked as if they were in a trance. They were mostly female, and they each stopped in front of one of the Atlantean hybrids. The Cousins were barely dressed in animal skins as they faced their superiors. Aztek-Alon pounded the staff, he then got up, and was soon followed by the others. The humans didn’t show fear or try to run, they just stood there. The pale figures opened their mouths to extend their incisors, and then sank them into the necks of their victims. John felt himself flinch at the sight. He was hypnotized by the brutality. Soon, they had sucked them dry, and as if throwing away a napkin after supper, dropped them into the pit below. Several human and Medusan slaves ran in and dragged the victims away. “My loyal sheep,” Aztek-Alon boomed, addressing the group. “You are worthy of my presents, and your sacrifices will be rewarded. We build a stairway to heaven and will seize God, himself. We will then rule this planet, and I will be your God, and all of you will reside in paradise for eternity.” The crowd cheered as if on cue, while John made his way back to the others. He recognized the droning of the man, and the disadvantage he was in right now. He needed to get free of this place in order to warn the base, and return with a force strong enough to bring Aztek-Alon to justice, again. John was forming a plan of escape as he moved, when he felt something brush his mind. Manatock seemed to have the same look in his eyes. “…But first my people, we must purge ourselves of the unbelievers and the evil they represent. Bring this evil to me!” Aztek-Alon loudly said, as he pounded his staff. Suddenly everyone’s cloak disengaged leaving them standing around looking very confused. “Bring them to me!” the man ordered. John, and his group, had their backs against the wall as hundreds of people turned to look at them. They all began checking their equipment and looking

around, nothing seemed to work. They knew they were hopelessly outnumbered, and no chance of shooting their way out, even if the weapons worked. John gave a surrender nod hoping for a better opportunity to escape. When they didn’t check in, he knew Xen would investigate, or go for help. They were all quickly disarmed, and all their equipment removed. They were then led down to the arena. Manatock was pushed together with the others. Aidan didn’t say anything as the Minotaur guards enlisted his help to round up the interlopers. Aidan caught on, and began assisting the guards in pushing them together. John dreaded having to confront his long-time nemesis again, while Aidan stood in front of John and took his utility belt. John saw the wink, as he took the items and slipped them under his crudely designed poncho. He gracefully faded back into the crowd. They were led by the guards down into the arena, Manatock took several strikes from a staff in the process, but being civilized, he was able to control his temper and wait for a better opportunity. They walked across the dirt arena until they were forced to stop and kneel in front of the stage. Aztek-Alon stood on the platform overlooking them like a supreme being looking over blasphemers. “Captain John-Anee-Athain,” his voice boomed. “You haven’t changed at all.” “You have, you’re a lot uglier,” John shot back in defiance. His smile vanished, but he kept his rage in check. “How did you manage to stay the same?” “Oh, you know. Clean living, exercise, and not eating, or murdering people.” “Enough! You have mocked me for the last time. I have waited a long time to exact my revenge.” “Revenge? What for? Because of you we’re stuck here, just as you are. Look,” John said sincerely, “maybe we can combine our forces to make this a better world. We can defeat the Destroyers, and then, perhaps find each other a planet to live on, if we can’t get along.” Aztek-Alon seemed to be taken aback by the comment. He looked almost sane

and human for a moment, and then the evil returned. “Good Captain, you know there is only room for one God, and that happens to be me.” John was really stalling in order to come up with a plan. “Alon, surrender now, and I promise a fair trial, and if you give up the key, I will request leniency. I’ll also call off the task force that’s now on its way.” “John…John…you may insult me, but do not insult my intelligence. I want to savor this victory. Guards! Take them to the holding cell, except the Cyclops, bring him to me.” He turned his back on them, as the guards began hitting them with their staffs, driving them to a nearby tunnel. The tunnel sloped upward, and then turned right. They were pushed into a dug-out area with tree saplings tied together to resemble a caged area. The guards shoved them in the dirty alcove, and closed and tied the wood door. One guard was stationed at the door, and the rest sporadically down the tunnel. The backside of the dead-end cave had a large fenced, window hole in it overlooking the arena. John didn’t know if it was by mistake of design that all of them had been put in the same cell, but he was glad about that. “Okay people, we need to escape, or get word to Xen. Any ideas?” “We can try the Medusan pheromones and make a run for it,” Rhe-A suggested. “Since they didn’t take our comm pins, I can try to break through the jamming,” Subriasa added, stooping because of the low ceiling. “Subriasa, get to work on the comm, it’ll be time to check in with Xen soon. V’Rella go ahead and try your luck with that guard.” V’Rella moved close to the weaved wood fence. The guard turned and smacked the wood bars with his staff, startling her, sending her back to John a failure. Subriasa began work on the comm pin using a piece of her decorative clothing, and a small sliver of wood. They were forming another plan to sacrifice some in order to have some escape when they heard a loud conversation at the cell door. It was Aidan; he was relieving the guard at the door. It took some persuading, but the guard gave in and moved down the tunnel. “Aidan, status?” John asked through the wood bars.

Aidan looked around nervously showing his immaturity. “They confiscated all the equipment, but I know where they put it. The place is crawling with guards and brainwashed Cousins. I scouted the area and found another way out, but it’s hard to get to. We’ll need a large diversion to get to it.” “Can you find the jamming device?” “I’ll keep looking.” “Okay, get going. Oh, Aidan. Good job.” John saw him smile and calm down. “Understood,” he said, and then turned with his newly acquired staff, and strolled down the tunnel. “Subriasa, any luck on that comm?” “No, do you have a pair of carillian tweezers in your pocket? Otherwise, we’re doomed.” “Okay, don’t panic. Have you got anything we can use?” “The only thing I think I can do, is overload the resonance frequency. If I do, it’ll send out a subsonic loop, which will probably make everyone deaf.” She took a deep frustrating breath. “The overload might be picked up by Xen. I can’t be sure.” “Can you do it on demand?” “It’s hard to keep it from not doing it, but it still needs work to get the desired results.” “Good, that’s a start to our diversion.” “Alright people let’s start thinking,” John said, facing them as they huddled together, while Subriasa tried to work some magic on the comm pin.

Jay was on the edge of his mind when the scene changed to the shuttle. He blinked away the confusion, and focused on the scene at hand. Xen was sitting in

the cabin of the shuttle going over the latest information from the satellite when he looked at the time. It was almost time to check in with the insertion team. The sun had been down for only a little while, and he was bored. He opened the hatch and strolled out into the night air. It was fresh, and the bugs were making noises as the light breeze swayed the tops of the trees. He was looking up at the sparse clouds that partially covered the near full moon. He was enjoying the outdoors when something occurred to him; the sounds of the bugs and animals had stopped. It was now eerily quiet. His senses went on alert as he began looking around suspiciously. The only light was what was coming from the open hatch of the shuttle, where he could hear the proximity sensors beeping. He jumped a little, and raced back into the shuttle to identify the reason for the warning. He sat in the flight deck going over the read outs, when he thought he saw something move outside the shuttle. He leaned forward, closer to the forward windshield straining to see into the darkness. Crack…came a loud sound hitting the window. Xen squeaked at the sight, and sound, of teeth and claws that scratched at the transparent steel window. He started the shuttle, as loud bangs, and metal on metal scratching could be heard on the hull. He was setting flight coordinates when he said out loud, “The hatch!” A large shadow darkened the flight deck doorway. Xen slowly eased his stun pistol from its holster. He swiveled quickly in his chair, only to see a monster. It was large, and the shape of an upright wolf. The snout was snarling, partially open as it drooled on the floor. Its paws were more like hands with large claws attached to them, and the eyes; the red eyes of the wolf creature mesmerized Xen. The creature leaped at Xen as his shot sent the thing back into the cabin. He reached the flight deck door just in time to see it recover, and start clawing at the interior. He heard more of the clawing at the exterior. Xen could tell the shuttle was now several hundred feet above the ground by looking out of the open hatch. He thought if he could just get the creature out, he might survive. The creature leaped again, Xen shot it again, but this time it recovered more quickly as it bounced around the cabin shredding everything it touched. He zapped it until it was close to the open hatch, he then reached into the flight deck, without turning his back to the creature, putting the shuttle into a flat spin and turning off the artificial gravity. The ship spun, causing the creature to slip back toward the doorway. He shot it over and over, until it was hanging out the

hatch with only one clawed hand dug into the interior to keep it inside.

Jay’s heart beat faster, as he bounced back to the cavern wanting to know what happened to both simultaneously. John and his team, except Allerisu, who had been taken away earlier, stood in the arena looking up at Aztek-Alon, listening to him rant and rave about his superiority. He noticed Maya, and most of the other followers were in some sort of trance, also. He wondered if Aztek-Alon was controlling them, or were they working in concert to control the population. Every once and awhile, he would swear she would focus on him, then dart her eyes back to the lunatic, then retreat back into her trance. He, and the others, had a row of stick wielding Minotaurs in front of them. They starred at the group, waiting for the attack order. Aztek-Alon soon tired of his own diatribe, and smacked his staff on the stage. The guards in unison began pushing them back away from the stage and against the spiked fence. Out came larger Cousins with the customary collars. They were dirty, shirtless, and their pants resembled large chunks of animal skins. They didn’t seem to be in the ‘awe inspired’ trance the rest of the masses seemed to be in. They looked very angry as they paced back and forth, sometimes they would bump into each other, and then strike out like wild caged animals. The drums started to beat again. John and the others were pushed further back against the spiked arena fence. From behind the stage came a small caravan of women Cousins wearing the customary attire and escorting Allerisu in the center. The Cyclops looked in a trance, as he carried something with a red satin square piece of cloth draped over it. He too, had a familiar control collar around his thick neck, with several ropes tied to it. The ends of the ropes were only ceremoniously carried by Cousin women. They marched to the drumbeat and stopped in front of the stage. They turned toward Aztek-Alon just as the drums stopped. “John!” He loudly said. “If you tell me where your base of operation is, I’ll give this to you.” He waved a hand, and a dark-haired Cousin reached over and pulled the cloth back to reveal the key. John starred at the skull as it starred back. “The key,” he said under his breath. He quickly snapped out of the surprise. “Why do you want to know where our

base is?” “I wish merely to re my kinsmen. I’ve not seen them in a very long time. We can leave right now in your shuttle.” John’s face went pale. “Yes, I know about your shuttle. It appears technology has not advanced much in the last thousand years. No matter, I’ve sent my werewolf strike team to secure it as we speak. All I need is coordinates to my destination.” Rhe-A moved up close to John. “The collars must only control motor skills, or he would’ve already extracted this information from Allerisu. The Cyclops may act simple, but he’s very smart. I believe the infusion of pure Atlantean plasma must let Alon live longer without feeding, and he needs more followers to control more people. Regardless, whatever he wants, it can’t be good for us.” “I know, but the key is right there,” John said, considering all his options. “You know he’ll never let us leave with it.” “I know that too,” he said, a little more testily than he intended. He moved closer to the line of guards. “I can’t trust you Alon, so I won’t tell you.” Aztek-Alon screamed, and rapped the staff on the stage. “Maybe I can change your mind!” The guards reached into the group and pulled out V’Rella and V’Rassa, and dragged them to the center of the arena. They stood there apprehensively looking around when they saw an individual come out of an alcove under the stage. She was obviously Medusan, taller and less green, carrying a staff that was flat at both ends. The most distinctive feature was her hair, which wasn’t hair at all, but dozens of snakes connected to her head that slithered and hissed. Some would snap at the air with their green scaly skins, and red eyes darted about, looking for a victim. “What in the name of the Great Creator is that?” Subriasa stopped what she was doing to stare.

Chapter Eight: Manipulation “Apparently they are still working on genetic manipulation. Apparently, he didn’t learn anything from the NEO’s uncontrolled experiments,” Rhe-A responded. “Aztek-Alon!” John called out. “You don’t have to do this. It’s me you want, put me in the arena.” “Very noble, Captain, but unnecessary. All of you have the information I want. Sooner or later, one of you will talk. Fight!” He yelled, as the stick wielding Medusan ran at V’Rella swinging high. V’Rella saw it coming, quickly ducked, and rolled out of the attack. She quickly realized the genetic modification had made it larger, but in turn, made it slower. V’Rassa moved in with a kick to the knee, sending it to the dirt on the other knee. The modified Medusan quickly swung the stick around barley missing V’Rassa, as she dodged backwards. John heard his name, and looked back at Subriasa, who, was still working on the comm pin, she pointed to Aidan. He was standing on the other side of the sharpened stake barrier. John worked his way toward him, as the Medusans performed acrobatic acts to stay away from the snakes, and find a weak spot. He could also see several Cousins stiffen like a tree and fall over, while most of the others cheered and waved their arms. “Aidan, you’re alright, good,” John quietly said. “Captain, I found the jamming transmitter. I didn’t know how to turn it off, so I set one of our pistols to overload. The rest have been drained of their energy, but yours has a few shots left.” Aidan nonchalantly ed it through the fence to him. “Good work. Be ready to lead us to the exit.” “Understood,” Aidan said, and blended back into the crowd. John moved to the forefront of the group to see the large Medusan limping and V’Rella bleeding green from her mouth. The large Medusan had the two smaller ones in front and behind. She took the staff and shoved it into the gut of V’Rella, sending her flying backward, knowing an attack was coming from V’Rassa, it

moved the other end of the stick upward. It caught V’Rassa under the chin, and laid her out onto her back. The large Medusan pressed the attack, and was now on top of her with the staff pressed against her throat. V’Rassa was trapped as the snake headed abomination moved in closer. V’Rassa reared back her fist as far as she could, and punched the aggressor in the face. Its head snapped back, but not before several snakes struck her arm. The mutant back peddled, as V’Rella dropkicked their tormentor in the back, sending it scrambling to get away. She then ran over to her sister, and held her as she lay their shaking violently. John yelled her name, trying to break through the Minotaur line, only to be met with a staff to the face. He fell where he was hit, and when the others moved forward, they were met with the same fate, except Subriasa, who was struggling to concentrate on her task. V’Rella kept one eye on the large Medusan, as she stalked like a predator waiting for its prey to die. She held V’Rassa’s hand that was bitten, it was becoming cold and hard, when she looked down the horror was obvious on her face. The skin was becoming hard as stone, and was working its way up her arm. She tried to drag her over to Rhe-A, but she was becoming heavier and heavier, until she couldn’t move her anymore. Tears rolled down her face, while she watched her sister become a stone block right before her eyes. V’Rella looked up through blurry eyes and saw the murderer smile; her sorrow was instantly replaced by rage. The large Medusan charged stick first. V’Rella sat back on her haunches, to John’s point of view, made no defensive move, as if, wishing to die. Just as the creature approached, V’Rella scooped up a hand full of sand and threw it into its face. The Medusan blinked, the snakes flinched, and slowed enough for V’rella to grab the staff and plant her foot into its abdomen. It staggered back blind, and disarmed. V’Rella’s rage took over as the petite Medusan charged with a battle cry, and connected the flat end of the staff with the enemy’s stomach. She began driving it back as the snakes struck out. She pushed harder and harder until the creature abruptly stopped. Her energy was all but gone, as she watched the green blood from the mutant ooze off of the wooden spikes from the fence she was impaled on. John broke through the guards, and raced for V’Rassa. A few guards pursued, but were turned back by Aztek-Alon. By the time John got to her, V’Rella had retreated, and was kneeling alongside her sister.

“John knelt down. “I’m sorry V’Rella.” John then caught a signal from the Centaur that stood head and shoulders above the crowd. He gave an understanding nod. “V’Rella, prepare yourself,” John said, before he stood to face the man. Aztek-Alon jumped down into the arena with grace and ease. He looked at his half dozen overly large Cousins standing by him. They began to mutate. Their bodies twisted with the sound of bones snapping and skin stretching. Their faces warped in pain as the snout grew longer, and their hair turned to fur. They snarled, gnashed their teeth and drooled, while they moved toward John. One moved as a biped in wandering circles, while the others walked as a quadruped. “John, I’m so sorry for your loss. Now! Tell me what I want to know, or I shall release my werewolves on your friends.” “The only thing I want to tell you is-go to hell. Now Subriasa!” A high-pitched squeal pierced everyone’s ears; even Allerisu could be seen to flinch. Aztek-Alon put his free hand up to his head, while the wolves danced around and howled. John brought his pistol out to take aim, at the same moment, Aztek-Alon saw what John was doing. With his superior strength and reflexes brought the staff up and threw it at John like a spear. He fired his laser cutting pistol, and severed Aztek-Alon’s arm, again, just as the spear impacted the right side of John’s chest. It sent him to the ground without his pistol.

The scene went dark, as Jay imagined himself standing up and wondering the dark. “What?” A dim spinning light appeared. Jay could hear scuffling. He focused on Xen as he came into view, firing his pistol. The creature was hanging on to the fold out steps. Xen fought the centrifugal force of the shuttle spin, trying to get to the hatch control near the hatch opening. He scooted along the wall face-first, until he got there. He reached for the close button, when suddenly, a claw came from the doorway, grabbing his arm and digging into the flesh. Xen screamed, the creature’s head and teeth replaced the claw, as they sank into his shoulder. The pain was excruciating, while he flailed for the close button. Just as he thought he was going to out, a loud piercing squeal came from his comm pin.

The wolf creature let go of his bite, and howled at the night sky. It held one paw up to its head and the other on the doorframe. Xen pushed away from the doorway, and gave the thing a hard kick to the abdomen. It let go of the door facing and slipped down to the steps. Xen went back to the hatch control and jettisoned the door hatch. The wolf man rode the door a thousand feet to the ground. With the last of his strength, Xen struggled into the flight deck and set the shuttle straight. He grabbed for the medical kit with his good arm, pulling out the plastifoam, he sprayed it on the wound without taking off his suit. He injected himself with a painkiller, and sat back. The proximity sensors beeped again. “What!” he said in confusion. “Impossible, another one. Alright then, let’s see if you can handle this.” Xen set the shuttle straight up. The memory metal in his suit liquefied and covered his head to form a helmet. The shuttle was almost in orbit before the sensors stopped beeping. He leaned back, sighing a deep breath, and tried to the insurgent party. He set the shuttle to hover near the pyramid site. Jay’s vision of the inside of the flight deck faded to black.

Jay/John opened his eyes to a lot of commotion and noise. Aztek-Alon stood over him with his foot on his chest, and his one remaining arm on the staff that stuck out of him. He pulled it out without regard to the pain it caused. John winced, and put his hand over the wound, and spit up blood from the collapsed lung. He looked sideways toward his team only to see large scale fighting by them, and the guards. During the scuffle, the crowd parted to temporarily reveal a temporary answer to his problem. His eyes started to focus, and he calmed himself, while his nemesis licked the bloody end of the staff, showing signs of pleasure. John focused his telekinetic ability, willing the pistol into his outstretched hand, but Aztek-Alon saw this too, and stepped on his arm near the wrist, pinning it to the ground, with the pistol in hand. “John, John. Give up, and tell me what I want to know.” “I can tell you one thing; I don’t give up.” John turned his head and adjusted his

aim. He fired the pistol, watching, as the laser-cutting beam shot across the cavern and struck a stone container of petroleum. The container exploded, throwing fiery liquid in all directions. This caused everyone to hesitate for a second. The flames began to spread rapidly through the wood timbers holding the place together. “What have you done?” Aztek-Alon bellowed. He reared back for a killing blow, when suddenly Aidan dove at him head first, goring him in the side, almost knocking him down. Aztek-Alon screamed with fury. He grabbed Aidan, and threw him into the battling crowd, knocking his own soldiers down. It was then, John heard it, a huge explosion that rocked the cavern, bringing down chunks of ceiling near where they must have kept the jamming device. ‘Better late than never’, John thought as he rolled to his side. He saw AztekAlon battling one of his own werewolf protectors. The explosion must have knocked out the collar transmitter too; it appears he can’t control them mentally. John watched as his enemy shoved his staff through the wolf and then slung it into a nearby fire. He looked confused to see people running and screaming to get out, instead of putting out the fire. The flames grew higher, setting fire to the other containers causing sporadic explosions. He watched from the ground as Aztek-Alon ran to Allerisu, who held the skull. He was regaining control of his extremities, as the man hit him hard with the staff, rocking him backward and dropping the skull. Aztek-Alon scooped it up and tucked it under his only arm, and with his staff in hand, disappeared into a tunnel. Allerisu quickly regained his senses, as a wolf jumped for his throat. He caught it in mid flight by its neck, and then grabbed its backside, while bringing his knee up, snapping its back. He then tossed it into a nearby blaze. No sooner than the wolf disappeared into the flames, two more took its place. John’s heart sank, but as he struggled to get up, he felt something watching him. He looked up to see another werewolf approaching him snarling, and ready for supper. ‘This is it, I finally ran out of luck, damn, I was so close.’ John was thinking when the werewolf leaped at him. A sword blade protruded out of its mouth. It fell dead immediately. ‘What weapon could kill a monster so quickly?’ he was thinking, as Maya pulled the blade out of the back of its head. Her pale features, black hair, fangs, and red-black eyes starred at him for only a second, then she reached down and helped him up.

“Guards retreat!” she yelled, as they noticed they were the only ones left fighting in a burning house. They were all too eager to break and run. Maya looked back at John. “That tunnel over there,” she said, pointing at a tunnel twenty feet up from the flaming cave floor. “Is the quickest way out.” She, and her entourage, quickly disappeared into the smoke. Subriasa kicked people aside, and reached John first. She helped him stay standing. “Captain! Are you alright?” “No, but we need to get out of here anyway,” came his dry response. The battered and bleeding group stood there watching the epidemic of fire engulfing the cavern. “The oxygen from some of these tunnels is feeding the fire. Soon, it’ll be too hot for even our environmental suits, that’s if the ceiling doesn’t cave in on us first!” Rhe-A yelled over the roar of the fire and crashing timbers. Manatock was ing Aidan as they reached the group. “This way,” Aidan said, ushering them in the direction a tunnel. “That tunnel,” John countered. “I got it from a good source.” They byed rivers of flame, and made it to the base of a wall. The tunnel opening was twenty feet above them. Subriasa held onto John, while Rhe-A made short work of the obstacle. She squatted on her knees while looking over the edge and clearing her mind. Allerisu had thrown another wolf into the fire, and spotted the team move to the wall below the tunnel. He turned, and growled at the last wolf, which then shrieked back. It looked around to see that it was alone, and then quickly retreated out of sight. Allerisu moved quickly to re the others. John began to rise slowly with no physical assistance. Subriasa caught on, and boosted him as far she could reach. Rhe-A set him gently on the ledge. The flames were almost upon them by the time everyone made it up on the ledge, except Allerisu and Subriasa, who stayed behind to help the others up. “It’s too late, proceed to the exit,” Subriasa yelled up at them.

“Not a chance,” John said, laying there, slightly hanging over the edge. “I’m not losing any more people today.” He held out his hand, and Subriasa began to levitate, but after a couple of feet just hung there suspended. Allerisu reached down under her belly, and lifted her as far as he could. Rhe-A was exhausted, but ed in as horsewoman rose to the ledge. She set foot on the ledge and the group let out a gasp of relief. They were all on the ragged edge of exhaustion from the day’s events. “Maybe you should eat lighter food,” Manatock remarked. “Are you saying I am fat,” Subriasa’s dirt smudged face uncharacteristically contorted. “Ah, no. Not for a horse anyway. We need to get going,” Manatock said, to redirect the subject, and then scampered down the tunnel with Aidan. Allerisu could be seen trying to climb up the wall, but the dirt kept giving way to his weight. While he struggled, the collar ropes kept getting tangled up and constricting him. He grabbed the collar furiously and tore it from his neck. He was about to throw it down, when he looked up, and then slung the end of it to the top of the ledge. The remaining group grabbed hold and pulled, while Rhe-A and John concentrated on the last of their telekinetic energy. His massive hands reached the top of the ledge as everyone who could, pulled on the ropes. He pulled himself up, and sat on the ledge to catch some smoke-filled air. The flames licked at his feet, while he stood up. “This has been fun, but can we go now,” Allerisu joked. Rhe-A and V’Rella struggled to pick up John. Subriasa told them to put him on her back. They did so, and moved as fast as they could up the smokey tunnel. The wind was picking up almost to the point of blowing out the torches on the walls. Aidan ran back to the group to tell them which branch to take, and to inform them that Xen was triangulating their position. He would be waiting when they got out. Some used their environmental suit helmets to help them breath, and see through the smoke. Aidan led the way for quite awhile until his full spectrum helmet showed an opening ahead. He reached the exit, only to find a small ledge overhanging a cliff. In the darkness. His visor showed a few thousand feet to the bottom of the

valley. He saw the tunnel entrance had slid hundreds of feet down the mountainside. He looked back over his shoulder to see the pyramid towering high into the smoldering sky. The smoke was getting very thick, as Xen maneuvered the shuttle in to pick them up. Aidan hesitated for a moment at the sight of claw damage done to the shuttle. He waived him in closer, as Xen watched through the non-existent hatch. Aidan hopped in, “What happened to the hatch?” “I gave it away,” was Xen’s only answer, while struggling to keep the shuttle steady, with one hand, and tremendous heated updrafts. Aidan helped everyone in one by one, until Subriasa was last, he held out his hand and a smile. She took it, smiled, and jumped in. Aidan looked down the smoky tunnel, and saw a very bright yellow light in the darkness. His black eyes became large. “Go! Go! Go!” Xen punched it, and the shuttle slipped away just as balls of flame blasted out of the tunnel spraying flaming rocks to the river valley below. Aidan watched the burning pyramid of dirt and wood from the doorway. It lit up the dusky countryside. He could see people of all shapes and sizes running for their lives in all directions. When the fire was a glow in the distance, he ducked back into the shuttle. Rhe-A had an emergency medical kit out and was treating John. Manatock noticed John looked as pale as the vampires, but at least he was conscious. Xen had already called ahead for an emergency medical team to be standing by. He put the shuttle on autopilot, leaned back, and ed out. The beat-up shuttle, and crew, slid into its parking spot in the cavern as dozens of people began taking the injured to the infirmary. Athene-A, and Pandor-A looked worried as John was brought out on a stretcher, and hustled to the medlab. “Rhe-A?” Athene-A said to her, as John was whisked by them. “How bad?” “I’ve got two dead. John’s bleeding is under control, and he’s stable. A few days in the cellular regeneration tube and he’ll be fine. I have to go; something is happening to Xen that I can’t identify. I’ll brief you later.” Rhe-A’s matted hair,

and dirty face took off after Xen’s stretcher. “What the hell happened out there?” Athene-A said to Manatock, surveying the damage to the shuttle.

Jay let out a loud breath as if he had just gotten off of a roller coaster. A sense of a few days later, he watched John sit at a large round table, acknowledging all his core crew and Council . Since he had come out of the induced healing coma, only hours before, he had been gathering information from everyone involved. “Start at the top of the list and fill me in,” he said to Rhe-A, who looked much better than the last time he saw her. “As you know, we lost Sorlak and V’Rassa. Our onsite crews report the area is still burning and it may take months before we can attempt to recover bodies and technology.” She gave John a commanding stare. “You’ll be fine if you just take it easy for a couple of days. The rest of the team will recover, except...I’m not sure about Xen. The mutant Cousins were so out of control, Aztek-Alon had to control them by using the collars. These ‘Defenders’ would die to protect their masters, as long as they were controlled. So, their numbers were depleted quickly. In order to quickly replenish the supply, their DNA had a built-in contagion. The diseases is carried in their saliva. If a human survives an attack after a bit, and are not treated immediately, the disease will rearrange their DNA. From my tests on viable samples, I’ll venture to guess it only affects Atlanteans and Cousins, the other species it will most likely kill. I’m afraid I was too late for Xen.” “Can you overwrite the DNA rewrite?” John asked, hoping against hope. “In order to do this, I have to wipe the DNA, RNA, and some chromosomes clean, and then re-sequence from old samples. It’s tricky, and there are side effects, most notably, it could kill him. The other is he may not come out of it as the Xen we know. Right now, he’s still unconscious with a mild sedative.” “The metamorphosis seems to take place when the adrenal system is activated, meaning if he was to be in a fight or flight situation, he could lose control.” “It seems appropriate that we let him decide his own fate, and help him in any

way we can. Any sign of the key?” John asked, turning to Athene-A. “Negative, no sign of Aztek-Alon, the key, or any of his followers. As soon as the place stops burning, we’ll move in and clean up. The shuttle is almost repaired and Drof says the second shuttle will be complete in another week. We’ve had to resort to alternative energy sources because of the absence of Agoam crystals, you know, the old sub-atomic particle fission reactor, and several other older technologies are working at maximum efficiency. In a couple of months, we’ll have enough energy to maintain this facility indefinitely.” “Well, at least some good news,” John said, with reservation. “What’s wrong, John?” Athene-A softly asked. John straightened in his chair. “It was right there, within by grasp and I failed. I could have ended all the suffering.” “We’re not really suffering, we are just human again, and you didn’t fail, you took an impossible situation and made survival possible. Not many people have that talent, but you seem to have an abundance of it. You succeed because you care,” Athene-A said from her heart. “Okay, no more pity, please. I’m better now. Thank you.” John half smiled. “Continue with the report.” Rhe-A spoke up again. “Maya’s experiments keep getting more elaborate every time we meet. The Vampire Syndrome she created is so extensive it’ll take me years to figure it out. What I do know is, it can be considered a disease. Also, it takes much more exposure to become infected than the Lycan Syndrome, but if the victim survives the near draining of their original blood, and that blood is replaced with some of the vampire’s blood, and they don’t die, then they will become irreversibly contaminated. I need to do more research.” “Even though Maya saved my life, she’s still a criminal. I want to know what it takes to incapacitate their kind. I’m also curious to find out what Maya’s sword was made of in order to kill a werewolf so fast.” “We’re working on it. We’re also working on an antidote, or a vaccine, for both Syndromes and the Mutant Medusan poison.”

“Good work, everyone. It looks like we have enough to keep busy for a while. Let’s get to it,” John said, as he slowly got up and made his way out of the briefing room.

Jay wasn’t sure about the reality until John took the headband off of him. “Wow, what happened afterwards? I want to know more.” “It’s alright, Jay. I think we’re suppose to take it slow. It’s not that your brain doesn’t have the capacity to function at a high level, it’s that you’re not trained or accustomed to this kind of activity. Come here, we’ll use a little more conventional data transfer.” John sat at his central consol, and pulled up a 3-D likeness of himself. “I recorded my thoughts, after the fact, as much as I could.” The computer beeped for attention. “Just say, play log. I think I need something to drink after reliving that.” He quietly left the room. “Play log.” John’s haggard face appeared on the screen. “We’ve started a new calendar for our time here on Earth, we call it, Atlantis Exodus Day. It is year 1022.096 since Atlantis escaped, I’ve decided to send an updated occurrence in the signal we have been sending out for the last thousand years. If you receive this message, you’ll know we are still alive. The specifications on our survival tactics are forthcoming on a separate data stream. This part of our project is a little more personal. “It took almost three months to reach the bottom of the cave mentioned in the previously sent update. We recovered the bodies, and laid them to rest with full respect. The repairs to the defense grid power point are complete and it has been resealed. Upgrades to the disrupter shielding around the agoam crystal core generators has been tedious, but successful. It will be more difficult to access those power points in the future. Several vampire and werewolf bodies were recovered for study. Rhe-A discovered that the Vampires were highly susceptible to ultraviolet radiation, which explained why they lived underground, and only came out at night. One thing she noticed, was their telekinetic ability was sacrificed to the point that they could mentally move themselves, but not much else. She also found out that the lycanthrope disease could also be activated by the gravity cycle of the moon and sun, coupled with the reflection of photons off

of a full moon. Xen had to be restrained during this time, since he decided not to undergo any of the radical treatments. Rhe-A is still hard at work on an injectable inhibitor so he can have more self control. “The deaths of my crew still haunt me, as does all the people I’ve lost over the millennia. I only hope their sacrifice will be justified in the end. I’ve ordered our new weapons to be equipped with a cellular disintegration mode. I’ve tried to live a pacifistic life style, but times have changed drastically, which requires drastic measures. I have grown tired of losing good people because I’m afraid to hurt, or kill, something with or without intelligence. We may degenerate into something our barbaric Cousins might recognize, but we must defend ourselves from total extinction by all means necessary, or be forgotten in the chronicles of time. “We, as of yet, have not recovered the key. It’s, therefore, not safe to return to Earth. We have not seen the Destroyers since they arrived over one thousand years ago, but we keep a wary eye out for them. If you are still alive, which we believe is so, because we are still alive, do not approach until we’ve secured the Defense Grid Key. May Enlightenment guide us, John-Anee-Athain, former Captain of Atlantis.” Jay noticed a time skip in the program as it continued its report. “Another six months has gone by, and no sign of the key. The search continues. V’Rella infiltrated the primitive commune of the Medusans, and successfully convinced them she was a, Seer, and their fate lie in distant lands. She told them if they took her potion they would wake up in a new life. It took dozens of shuttle flights to move the several hundred Medusans to their new home four hundred miles to the north of their current location. Some refused to go, but the majority who did, are living free of war for the first time in their collective memories. I am happy for them. V’Rella returned to the TSD soon after the mission was over. “I find myself wandering the underground station, dubbed Earth Station Chrysalis by the majority. The place has tripled in size since we cocooned ourselves here more than a thousand years ago. Aztek-Alon’s hideout is now buried forever, and all Atlantean evidence removed and stored for future recycling. I have finally realized, as has many others, that I am not needed, and most of the duties for observation and recording can be done by automation.

Most of our time is now spent waiting. A small skeleton crew will be left to oversee the automated systems. They will cycle out every few of years. I like being out of the TSD, but just waiting to grow old doesn’t appeal to me either, so I have given in, and will return to the device until I am needed again.” John and Athene-A came back, as Jay leaned back in the chair and exhaled loudly. “Something bothering you, JJ?” “Oh, this whole thing is bothering me.” He swiveled around. “How long have you been here, on Earth?” “Approximately thirty thousand years. I could give you exact numbers if you gave me exact parameters, for instance; do you want to use the Christian calendar, Julian calendar, Hindu, or Chinese calendars, perhaps Mayan.” “Didn’t that one end?” “No, they finally determined it was infinite, and that anymore effort in counting was a waste of time.” “Ha, so, it appears the skull key is the main focus here, but I’m still confused on the clues we’re searching for.” “If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the eons, is patience. We’ll get there.” A light on the console flashed. “Jay, would you wave your hand over the lit crystal.” Jay did so, and Aidan’s face appeared in 3-D above the console. Jay involuntarily scooted back. “I don’t know if I’ll ever get used to that.” “Honored Councilors,” the booming voice started, “the mission was a success. We created a rock slid from the nearby hillside. The area is buried in rock. No casualties and security was maintained. It will take them, depending on determination, a month to dig it out.” “Very good, thank you. Return to base and take some time off.”

“Sounds boring. Do you have anything else?” “Be careful what you wish for, no, but stay close. I may need your help again.” “Understood, Aidan, out.” “Speaking of the site, I think I should get back. I’m already tired.” “Oh, I forgot about your lower stamina.” John walked over the a cabinet and pulled out a pill. “Here, take this, it will refresh your body.” “This little thing?” Jay said, as he took it between his fingers, trying not to crush it. “It’s all you need.”

Jay walked into camp to all manner of excitement. He removed his shirt, and then threw it in his tent as he went by. He mused up his hair, while walking up to the crowd. “What’s going on?” A young Asian man turned to him. “A rock slide buried the ruins. The Professor is having a breakdown.” Jay pushed his way further through the mass of people to see the Professor pounding on a pile of rocks with a pickaxe. He approached the crazy man and stopped him in mid swing. “Professor, Professor, what are you doing?” The man’s eyes were wild and bloodshot. He settled, and focused on Jay. “We must get inside.” “We will Professor, but not today. Come, let’s gets some rest and plan a strategy for tomorrow.” The Professor was exhausted and relented. Jay led him through the crowd, on the way to his tent. Jay reassured the group that the Professor was okay, and herded them off to their own tents. A little later, he lay is his own tent trying to rest, but something was wrong, he

couldn’t put a finger on it, but something was bothering him, and where was Shelly.

The summer dawn was inspiring, while it dissipated. Jay looked over the beautiful countryside and took a deep breath. He spotted the Professor near the rock slide, with the only satellite phone in the area, stuck to his ear. Jay could hear him talking to the home office as he walked up. The Professor hung up and said, “Good morning, Jay.” Taken aback, Jay hesitated, the Professor had never called him by his first name. “Good morning, Professor.” “I’ve convinced the home office to send in heavy equipment and a company to stabilize the area, should take a few weeks. In the mean time, the area is to be evacuated for safety. Everyone gets a paid vacation. The transports will be here late this evening.” “Sounds prudent.” “You are agreeing with me? I must’ve been a real spectacle last night.” “I’ve seen worse.” “Well, hmm, maybe we could just forget about that little diatribe.” “Of course, Professor. Have you seen Shell?” “She got a call from her mother. She was to meet her in Athens a few days ago.” “Oh, she didn’t say anything.” “Well, you know Ms. Masters. Come, let us get everyone prepared for the trip to Athens.”

Chapter Nine: Fire God “Thanks for picking me up, Gramps,” Jay said to the man driving the beat-up taxi. “I thought I was never going to get away.” “My pleasure.” “I wish we weren’t pressed for time. I’d still like to see some more sights.” “You should have seen them in their day. Magnificent feats of engineering, for human Cousins anyway.” He smiled. They drove out of town along an old dark road. They came to a cliff, and John kept driving. “Whoa, what are you-” The car went off the cliff, but didn’t fall. Jay was trying to back up, but had no place to go. The car stopped inside the shuttle’s cargo compartment. John got out. “Are you coming? You can stay here if it makes you feel safe.” “Very funny,” Jay said, climbing out. “How about warning me next time.” “What, and miss the look on your face.” “Still, not funny.”

Jay watched John from his spectral view point he was now getting used to. He observed John spending time modifying equipment to fit his situation. After the long preparations were completed, he had Portis-Akari drop him off near the site located close to where the two continents on the other side of the world came together near the equator. Giving him instructions to only monitor him, and not to bring any of the Command Council personnel out, unless it turned into an emergency. The shuttle touched down softly. John exited, stopped to breathed in fresh air, and ired the beautiful green sight of the jungle. He waved off Portis, as he

closed the hatch and watched the ship rise and zip away. Walking into the wilderness, gave him memories of his home planet, Terrah, where, on an outing such as this, he discovered the secret to his people’s survival. This may not be so dramatic, but it felt good to get out, and not be responsible for anyone but himself. To be free to explore, and appreciate this young world around him. He glanced at his handheld, cinched up his pack, and wondered into the dense trees. Would he find the skull after all this time, or would he just be on vacation? There had been scant hints of rock shaped skulls in the area from orbital satellites, and rumors from locals. The chances of finding it was slim, but the chance had to be taken. Jay, once again, felt time speed up through the machine. The sun on the horizon rose quickly, then slowed, giving the impression of two days ing. John was setting up his portable tent, which started out the size of a fist, and then grew to house up to five people. He plugged in his personal cloaking unit at night to encom the homestead, just in case. He spent hours reading as the rain beat against the tent. After it stopped, the jungle would come alive with animal, insect, and bird sounds. He lay there for hours, just listening. Early the third morning, he packed up and headed north to be consistent with his grid search. He watched his handheld, turning his personal cloak on and off to conserve power. He would do this when he was near large predator animals. At one point, late in the evening, a pair of jaguars strolled by him. One stopped and sniffed the air, the animals became apprehensive, and skittered away, continually staring in John’s invisible direction, until they disappeared into the jungle. John checked in with Chrysalis once a day, updating his, and their information. On the fifth day, John was rested, Jay could feel that his Grandfather was starting to lose hope, his half circular pattern had brought him near a river, where he stepped out into a clearing, his handheld ed humanoids nearby. He took the opportunity to observe. Cloaked in invisibility, he saw two newcomer Cousins picking berries, and digging for roots. Their dark matted long hair was damp, as well as their animal skin dresses. Meer observation told him that one was really pregnant and could deliver any day. He thought about children and sighed at not ever having any, and may never. The two talked softly as the handheld made quick work of the translation.

Then the pregnant one stopped, moved her hand up and down her oversized belly, then doubled over in pain. The other woman came to her aid. Setting down some large elephant ear shaped leaves to make a bed. She then laid the pregnant woman down, and tried to comfort her. John watched, and recorded the miracle of life. The pregnant woman let out several screams as the other tried to keep her quiet. John thought this odd until a silent warning popped up on his handheld. He moved in the direction of the warning. The blinking got rapid as he moved a large leaf plant to the side, to reveal a huge black face with large green eyes. John jumped back as the panther collided with him. They both got up quickly. The cat looked confused as it stared at nothing. John remained still and quiet. Another scream was heard in the distance and the panther bolted toward the sound. It was driven by the smell of blood, and an easy kill. John followed the panther as fast as he could, having flashbacks of the time before, where two women were in trouble. The situation did not turn out well for them. He was not going to let that happen again. He pulled out his stun pistol, but couldn’t get a clear shot because of the foliage. He made the clearing in time to see the smaller woman with a large stick waving it at the panther in a pathetic attempt at an attack. The big black cat leaped into the air; John fired. The cat went wide sliding across the damp grass to a stop. The woman stood there in amazement staring at the end of her stick. She crept close to the non-moving predator, poking at it with the stick. John ran up closer, happy his shot was on target. The woman with the stick raised it toward John. The pregnant woman began screaming wildly, John wasn’t sure if it was the pain, or fear. They could both obviously see him. The big cat knocked his cloaking modular off his belt, and once he left its realm of influence-became visible to the naked eye. His seven-foot frame towered over the five-foot-high woman. The fear was present, but the smaller woman did not leave her friend. John put his free hand up, putting away his pistol, and then raised it too. “Are you alright?” He asked, slowly waiting for the translation. Another scream, as a trail of blood ran off of a large leaf and soaked into the ground. The woman with the stick moved to her friend keeping a wary eye on

the giant. She tried to comfort her, but something was obviously wrong. John pulled out his handheld and examined it. He needed to be closer. He slowly moved. “May I help?” He asked, while he moved even closer. The young woman raised the stick as her friend cried out. She was torn and confused, then came to a decision to trust, and then lowered her spear. John knelt down and ran the handheld over her. The baby was twisted. He punched in some parameters, and then reached for his med-kit, filled an injector, and touched it to her neck. She flinched, but relief was almost immediate. “What is that?” The young woman asked. “Something to relieve some of the pain. Now, the baby has turned, we need to straighten him out.” “Him?” “Yes, it’s a boy. Now push here.” “Who are you?” she asked, doing what she was told. “My mane is John,” he said as he worked, “What’s yours, and hers?” “I am Anataka, and this is my blood sister, Nanona.” “Nanona!” John loudly said, “I need you to push now.” She acknowledged his command, but was very weak. “Anataka, push here-harder.” It wasn’t long before the baby crested and began crying. John held the infant long enough to ire him, and then handed him to Anataka. He quickly lasered the umbilical cord, cauterizing it in one fell swipe. He removed the excess and took a small towel out of his pack and handed it to Anataka. She wrapped up the child and gave him to a wary, but happy mother. John cleaned up, put his equipment away, and sat back on his heels. Anataka was young, but she was a woman. She sat there, sad, and almost in tears.

“What’s the matter?” John asked, concerned. “There’s so much blood. She will catch the sickness and die.” John smiled. “No, she won’t. I gave her a little something to prevent that. Now, be happy.” She looked up and smiled. John noticed for the first time how pretty she was. Her raven black hair matched her deep dark eyes and tan complexion. If she were taller, she could easily as an Atlantean, except for the eyes. Her eyes got wide as she stared at him. “You are a God.” She immediately got on her knees and put her forehead on the ground. “No... no... I’m not,” John said as he pulled her up. “I’m just a tall person with tools. Nothing more.” “Oh, but you are special.” “Some might not think so,” John snickered. Anataka relaxed. “It will be dark soon. If we don’t get back to the tribe. We will not survive the night.” “How far is your tribe?” “A long walk, that way,” she said, pointing up river. John studied the situation. “Nanona should not be moved, and I can’t leave the panther defenseless,” he said, turning to look at the beautiful animal as it slowly breathed. “So, we’ll make camp.” “We cannot, we have no protection, and why protect the panther? It would surely kill us.” “It may be a killer, but it only does what its designed to do, survive. We do the same thing. When it wakes, it will move on.” She skeptically looked at him. John studied that look, and could swear he had seen it before. He shook it off, and began setting up his tent.

The women were amazed as they slowly moved inside. Nanona was softly laid on a bed with her baby nursing. Anataka kept crawling on the floor like a worshipper until John had to raise his voice to make her stand up. The panther soon left, and he began making dinner. Nanona and baby ate a little, and were soon asleep in the secure, climatecontrolled environment. Anataka was curious and tried to handle the technology. John moved with her, taking things away as if she were a small child. “Why are you so tall?” she asked. “Why are you so short?” he replied, keeping all of his answers vague. “Where do you come from?” “Far from here.” “Why are you here?” “I’m looking for something.” “What?” “A special item,” he said. He sat down at the table with fruits and vegetables. He waved his hand for her to him. She did so without any of the previous god worship in her eyes. She looked at him as if he were human, strange, but human. She ate sparingly, while studying him, like she knew him. “I’m looking for this,” John pushed a paper-thin computer across the table with a picture of a crystal skull on it. Her eyes widened, and she almost fell back. “You want my head.” She ran for the exit and pushed back a flap, only to see nothing but darkness. “What? No, it’s not made of a person. It’s made of stone.” She seemed to fear the darkness more than him. She slowly turned and relaxed, seeing John just sit there. “I’m not here to harm anyone.”

“How is the sun shining in here and not outside?” “Glowing particles...” John found himself distracted. “Uh, it’s getting late, have you seen a stone skull?” “No, but I have seen many real ones.” “Oh, we’ll leave for your tribe as soon as Nanona is able. You can sleep there. I’ll sleep there.” Anataka took a thermal blanket and curled up on the floor next to Nanona. John went to his bed whispering a word to shut off the lighting.

Jay could still not believe the detail of the mind blending computer. He could swear he could smell the dampness, and hear every bug. He was there, as the darkness blacked his vision, and then he heard rummaging. He opened his eyes, got up, and looked into the main room. The front flap was open to let in a small stream of light, while Anataka tried to work the food dispenser. “Lights,” John casually said. They flicked on, giving Anataka a start as she spun around and looked up at the giant. There it is again, that look, as if he had met this person before. The baby started crying. “Whatever you want, just tell the machine.” She slightly relaxed and smiled through a dirt smudged face. John’s keen sense of smell couldn’t help notice the three resembled the smell of the jungle. Nanona sat up and began feeding the child. Anataka spoke to the machine, which took a few second to translate, then opened to reveal fruits and berries. Her eyes lit up, as she took the tray and knelt down in front of John, bowing her head, she began to worship him. She made John feel like a God. He was feeling the intoxication of superiority, thinking he could do whatever he wanted, the power of life and death at his fingertips. She looked up at him. That look, did she recognize him. He kneeled down and put a finger under her chin, so they were face to face. “The

Great Creator is flawless,” he said, “and I am far from that. Anataka, I am not a God. I have better tools, that’s all. Now, eat. The shower, I mean, river wash water, is over there, just say, warm water, and you may bathe.” She stood up in silence and moved to Nanona. She ate, while she, and her friend cooed over the baby. John watched for a moment, then went to get dressed. When he returned, Anataka was experimenting with the shower. She jumped back when it sprayed. John couldn’t help but chuckle. She looked at him, and smiled. She put her hand in to make it start, then removed it to make it stop. Without a thought, she removed her animal skin dress, and let it drop to the floor. John tried to take his eyes away, but she was so beautiful. Like a miniature Atlantean. She disappeared into the steam. He walked over and picked up her dress and put it in the garment cleaner. Nanona was reluctant to speak, but she built up her courage, and said, “Thank you for helping us.” She then quickly looked away. “You’re welcome,” he said, and then sat next to her. She seemed very uncomfortable by this move. They could here Anataka singing some ancient tribal song. “She has always been the adventurous one, brave and smart. She can outperform most of the men in our tribe.” “Yes, she is special. When do you think you will be able to travel?” “Would tomorrow be alright?” “Of course,” John said, looking over at the suckling baby. The miracle of life, and the miracle to come, trying to preserve it. Anataka stepped out of the shower. Her black frizzled hair and body were dry. She looked at her dried hands in amazement. John approached her with her clean animal skin dress, while he averted his eyes. “You are a God, and this is heaven.” John shook his head and went to his room to check in with Chrysalis.

For the rest of the day, the women mauled around, lost, because of not having to fend for their lives. Nanona moved around cautiously. They asked hundreds of questions that John wouldn’t answer, and if he did, they wouldn’t understand anyway.

The tent was folding in on itself as the two onlookers gasped. John put the box in his backpack and moved toward the women’s tribe. They marched through the jungle, avoiding snakes and other predators. John was impressed by Nanona’s perseverance of having just given birth, and then hiking several miles. The women looked at each other from time to time, wondering how this strange mangod knew where to go as he led them home. It was afternoon, before they emerged into a clearing. Scores of humans moved about their daily chores of cooking, watching children, and being on guard. Lean-to’s dotted the area. John thought it clever to camp in the open, as to see any enemies, or predators coming. When they cleared the edge of the jungle, a male guard called out, and a contingent came running forth. Six of them stood in front of John, and the women. Anataka, using more sign language than language, began explaining, or trying to explain, to them that the man-god was not there to hurt them. The fear in their eyes was obvious, as they held their wooden spears at John. He noticed right off; the spears were burnt on the pointy ends to add to rigidity. They haven’t invented stone spearheads yet, he thought, good. John was now surrounded, and feared he may have to hurt one of the Cousins in order to protect himself. He slowly pulled out his pistol, setting it to burst, he aimed it at the top of a nearby tree. The thunder clap and explosion, as the top of the tree came crashing down, scared the guards to the prone position of worship. Anataka and Nanona stood there with their mouths open. The baby began to cry as John was putting the weapon away. “Huehueteotl, please forgive us. We did not recognize you in man form,” the lead guard said. John wasn’t sure of the name, but it sounded, or translated into Fire God, or the

old Fire God. He realized he might have made a big mistake. By now, the whole nomadic village was before him and bowing, except Anataka, who stood there in undecided fear. John raised his hands as not to appear aggressive. “Please, I’m not here to harm anyone. Stand up, It’s alright.” He made an uprising motion with his hands. The lead guard looked up, noticed Anataka standing before a god with no respect. He took his spear, and swept her leg out from under her. She went down on one knee, giving the guard a killing look, there it is again, John thought, that look. I’ve seen it before. “Stop! No violence.” The guard jumped back to the prone position. “Now, everyone, up. It is a great day.” “Yes,” the guard said, getting up. “We must rejoice and feast.” He waved another guard over. “Go find the Chief at the hunting grounds, and tell him to get back here.” The man nodded and took off. “Everyone, prepare for the coming.” The tribes people got up and began scrambling around to prepare.

The sun was going down when the tribal leader with his cohorts arrived. Food was cooked over an open flame, as children and adults slowly approached John carefully, wishing not to incur his wrath. It took a while, but the tribes people began to relax and sat to eat near the giant. Chief Akanar knelt in front of John. He was tan, like the rest of his people, short, stout, with several animal bones stuck through his ear lobe. An animal tooth necklace hung down a scared chest that had seen many battles, either man or animal. He had a headdress of feathers and a club with a large shiny piece of, what looked like gold, tied to the end of it. John asked to see it closer, the Chief handed it over, and backed away without making eye . He took out his scanner, and confirmed it was gold, someone had spent hours polishing it to a bright shine. John tossed it back to the Chief with his approval. “Chief Akanar, sit and enjoy the feast, all of you.” He said louder, “eat, enjoy the feast.”

They complied happily, with smiles and cheers. By late into the evening, they were still talking by the campfire. By now, the clan realized, John, the God, was not there to punish them, but rather, interact with mortals, something they knew they had done all through time. John decided to forgo the tent and technology, so he slept on the ground with animal furs as blankets. Anataka pulled up her animal skin bed near him, and looked as though she had a question. “Okay, ask, before I go to sleep.” “Why do you not use your magic shelter?” “ how scared you were when you first saw it? Well, imagine fifty people scared like that at one time.” She thought about it for a few seconds, then smiled in understanding. There’s that familiar look again, what is it about her? “Now, go to sleep. I have a job for you tomorrow.” She smiled wider, and wiggled closer toward him. He rolled over on his back and gazed at a night full of stars. He began identifying the star patterns as they rotated. He wasn’t tired, laying there for hours listening to the jungle sounds, and snoring. The more he stared up, the more homesick for space he became, especially, Atlantis. John eventually dozed off to sleep. He hadn’t dreamed in centuries unless one counted the Temporal Storage Device. He knew his night time dream, was a dream, but he allowed it to play out. He was running through single-file tunnels, something was chasing them, Athene-A in front of him, and Maya-A-Toltek behind him. The fiery torch he held would spray sparks when he accidentally hit the ceiling with it. They turned left, then right, straight, a seemingly endless dark tunnel. Why was Maya in his dream? He had not thought of her since the new discovery of her genetic mutations in the caverns below the wooden pyramid. A loud growl came from behind him, he stopped and turned, only to see claws in the darkness grab Maya by the waist, and start to pull her back into the blackness.

She clawed the tunnel walls. “Help me, John,” she yelled, as she vanished. John opened his eyes to the stars again. From there new position in the sky, he could calculate that he had only been asleep for two hours. He got up and began to walk the perimeter of the camp. Everywhere he went, a guard would bow and then prostrate himself in front of him. He gave up trying to convince them otherwise, and moved on. Moving away from the light of the fires, he once again became awed at the clear starry night sky. The dream still bothered him as he contemplated how similar it felt compared to the TSD, as if there were some kind of telepathic connection. He sat there, contemplating, until the sun peeked over the horizon. By the time he walked back to the camp, it was almost time to leave. He was amazed at how efficient they were, very little wasted material, or energy. Anataka approached and bowed, lugging his equipment, along with hers. Maybe he would travel with them for a little while, study them, and search for the skull at the same time. “I can carry my own things, Anataka.” “I would be most honored to do so.” He hesitated in recognition, then said, “No, that won’t be necessary.” He looked back at her as he followed the Chief into the jungle.

It was late in the evening, while John was monitoring his handheld, when the Chief cautiously approached and kneeled. John had noticed the Chief avoiding him, either out of fear, or rejection. It must have taken a lot of courage for him to come to him now. “What can I do for you, Chief Akanar? Please stand, I don’t like talking to the tops of people’s heads.” The Chief got up, moving his hand down his club-cane to reveal wood carved human skulls down the pummel. “We are approaching our campsite; are there any preparations you would like us to make?”

“No, just make sure everyone is fed. Chief, I am looking for something, something that eludes my power, have you seen, this-” John manipulated the handheld, making a 3-D picture of the crystalline skull floated near him. The Chief fell to the ground again, and began mumbling some kind of prayer. “Chief! Rise.” He slowly did so. “Have you seen this artifact?” The Chief was unsure how to answer, which answer might kill him, or send his soul to the underworld. “No, Huehueteotl, please forgive us.” “It’s alright Chief. If I can’t find it, what makes me think you could.” The Chief relaxed at answering correctly, and got up. “Is it important?” “Probably the most important thing on this planet.” “We will be vigilant,” he confidently responded.

The new campsite was similar to the last, but near a mountain range. John spent the remainder of the day jumping into trees to gather fruits, amazing the warriors. He was able to detect with his scanner, various edible roots and vegetables. They ate well while he was around. Anataka readied a lean-to for him, while he gathered food. The sky darkened and threatened rain. After the late day meal, John stepped into his new abode and set his pack down. She didn’t enter, but moved her things around. Clashing stones together, trying to make a fire when the rain came. She gave up and pulled her fur blanket over her head. John had just reported in to Chrysalis, when he saw that she was the only one without shelter. She must’ve given him, hers. “Anataka, come, out of the rain,” he said, holding out a large hand. She did so gladly, even though she was already drenched. He looked at the pile of wood she had stored just inside the tent, and started arranging it. He could’ve used any number of gadgets to start a fire, but he had never tried to do it with his mind, he never had to. He put his hands around the pile of wood looked deeply

into it, and concentrated. He saw in his mind, the molecules that made up the kindling. He made the molecules vibrate, faster and faster, until they began to generate friction heat. He pushed harder, like microwaves ing through them. Suddenly, the wood lit up and spread, until a well-defined campfire hissed and sparked. Anataka’s eyes widened as she bowed to him. Outside, in the rain, the Chief and several guards had brought torches to light various fires. They stood there in the rain, stunned at what they saw, and then quickly snapped out of it. They kneeled and bowed in the mud, whispering Huehueteotl. John rolled his eyes, and then said, “Chief, seek shelter.” “Yes, your Highness.” They quickly left. Well, if that didn’t secure his place as the fire God, nothing would. “Anataka, warm yourself.” She sat up and moved closer to the fire. John reached behind him for bigger sticks to put on the flames. When he turned back, she had removed her fur skin dress and was holding it near the fire to dry. John tried to look away, but he was no God, he was still human. He stirred the fire for something to do. He then removed his boots and laid back on his large leaf bed with stinky smelling furs, and sighed. No stars tonight, he thought. Well at least the pattering of rain was soothing to his troubled mind. How long could they hold on before Atlantis returned? He sighed again. He felt the fur blanket rustle and a warm body curled up beside him. He did nothing to discourage her, but felt less lonely than he had in a long time.

John was up, long before light, leaving Anataka tucked in. He made his rounds with the sensors, and by the time he got back, the hunter-gathers were ready to go, again. He wondered why they moved so much, they couldn’t possibly deplete an area’s resources in one day, even a group this large. The winding trail took the group down into a river bed. The river was wide, but shallow. The tribes people, on cue from the Chief, began setting up defenses, and lean-tos as if preparing for an invasion. He just stood around, confused. While

watching the spectacle, he saw Anataka up river, knee deep in water, with a thin wooden spear, preparing to strike. When he approached, she thrust the spear into the water, and with one fluid motion, tossed the fish over to the bank. He had made several notes in his logs about how the tribeswomen were as good at hunting and fishing as the men. Anataka was exceptional. He ired her for a few minutes, and then interrupted her fishing. “Why the defenses?” She looked up. “This is a very dangerous area; it is the territory of Quetzalcoatl. He doesn’t like us to corrupt his domain. We must gather enough food to appease him in order to make it to our hunting ground. We must appease him before the rains raise the river to high for us to cross.” “Why the defenses?” “If he is not appeased, then we must fight for our right to cross.” John studied this for a few moments. Wondering what could scare, or take on a group this large. “When will Quetzalcoatl arrive?” “Sometimes, one, maybe two sunrises.” His curiosity had peaked, and by now, there were dozens of men, women, and children wading the waters, some using just their hands to fish. It was getting late, and John knew they were not going to meet their quota if Quetzalcoatl showed up in the morning. “Everyone, out of the water,” he said waving his hands over his head. They stopped and looked at him dumbfounded. “Out!” They scrambled out as if on fire. Once they were all out, he took out his pistol and reset it. Walking up to the bank, and standing on a flat dry rock, he put the pistol close to the water and fired an electrical charge. Hundreds of fish floated to the top, and were gradually being carried away by the slow current. There was cheering, then a mad dash for the water, where they retrieved the fish in a matter of minutes. “How else can I help?” he asked Anataka.

“Quetzalcoatl also likes gold. Another group is usually tasked to find it near the river.” “Strange, but maybe I can help with that, too.” John took out his handheld and began walking up river. Anataka’s curiosity got the better of her, and she followed. A hundred yards later, he stopped and examined an outcropping of rocks. Anataka was picking up small nuggets of gold along the river bank. Blue-green rocks caught her eye. She put the small turquoise rocks in her fur pouch along with sand polished emeralds and some rubies. John examined the spot for a few minutes, then went back to the river. He reached in her pouch and grabbed a handful of turquoise rocks, and then filled the other hand with sand. He put them together and rubbed faster than the eye could see. He rinsed them off and gave the finely polished stones to Anataka. She examined them, and smiled, as she put them away. It was only fleeting, but John saw that same look of familiarity, and then just as quickly, it was gone.

The campfires were low, as fish sizzled over smoldering embers. John was a vegetarian, but tried the fish anyway. Most of the tribe had gone night hunting, in order to make their quota. This was dangerous, since that’s when the jaguars came out to hunt. John stayed back to help with the defenses. His curiosity grew more and more, while waiting for the arrival of Quetzalcoatl. Anataka had been gone all evening, and he was getting concerned. When she came walking up in a slick haired puma skin dress with turquoise stones attached in a pattern of a teardrop, accentuated with emeralds and highlighted with rubies and gold. Her skin was clean, and her hair slicked back, Atlantean style. To John, and the others around, she could’ve ed for a goddess. She sat beside him, both staring into the flames. The other males in the tribe caught onto John’s infatuation with her and kept their distance. “What’s this Quetzalcoatl person, like?” She looked up at John, and he noticed she had a bluish ring around her bright

brown eyes. “He’s very big, and very angry. The Chief, and the Council, although they like you better, don’t think you can defeat him, so we continue with the tribute.” She looked away, embarrassed. “That’s alright, I don’t intend to fight him.” She looked relieved. “How long will the night hunt last?” “Most of the night, or if they catch all they can carry.” John was iring the stars, when groups of tribes people came out of the dark and began piling jaguars, monkeys, animals of all kinds, on the huge pile of fish. Some loud yelling came from the main part of the camp. John easily peered over the group at three men and one woman, badly injured from the hunt. The natives were doing what they could for them, buy one was dead and the others soon would be. John, without thinking of the consequences, pushed forward and took out his med-kit. He examined the dead man, and discovered he had just died, there was still time. He injected him, then moved to the others. The screaming stopped and a serenity fell over the injured faces. The major injuries were stabilized, and he began running the tissue generator over the massive wounds. How they made it this far, John could only guess-their tenacity, extreme desire to live, all he knew was, they were tough. John put his med-kit away, and saw the whole tribe on the ground, bowing. He shook his head, got up, and went back to his lean-to for some rest. Loved ones embraced their resurrected kin, and began to dance, talk, and feast, well into the night. They were happy, so John was happy. Anataka, soon ed him. They lay there listening to the primitive jungle and tribal sounds of dance and singing. The beat was so inviting, Jay wanted to get up and dance.

Anataka woke just before dawn, only to find herself alone. Annoyed at being left behind again, she made her way to the river and washed her face. John could see her as the shadows retreated. He scanned the area from a large outcropping of rocks near the river’s bend. The sun was still below the tree line, while he

scanned and drifted further upriver. He didn’t get very far before he heard a loud splash, and some screams. He turned his scanner to a different setting, and got a very strange reading from the campsite. He ran back to the camp. John stopped at a large boulder, and peered around it. He stared in disbelief at a large, long-necked beast with wings along its slender body. Its extra long tail had a series of spikes on the end. Larger back legs made it look as though it could sit on its haunches and hold things with its five-digit opposable thumb claws. Its massive mouth began eating the pile of food. It would raise its head and let the rotting meat slid down its gullet. The tribes people were all on their knees, bowing. The creature barely gave them a second thought. John searched his memory, he had seen this creature before, yes, but that was thousands of years ago, during the Alon-war. Aztek-Alon had created an army of genetically mutated creatures, and to make sure they fought for him, he fitted them with obedience collars. He pulled up the information on his handheld to refresh his memory. How was this thing still alive? Its collar was large and embedded into the scaly skin down close to the body. It was fastened from the durable material that Atlantis was made of. Scratch marks were all over it where the creature had tried to tear it off. Several small access s had been pried open, exposing corroded circuitry. The collars were made inert after the frequency generators were destroyed during the battle between the Atlanteans, but it still looked painful. He quickly read through the information, Alon called them Dragons. He tried to take some readings, but they were erratic, then he read further, from the studies from the few Atlanteans who backward engineered most of Aztek-Alon and Maya-A-Toltek’s work. Their design was to evade sensors, and with no machinery to detect, could fly in behind enemy lines for a surprise attack. John looked up to see the creature finish his large meal and take gulps of water from the river. He spied Anataka approach with a wooden bowl full of gold nuggets. She knelt in front of it with her head bowed and the bowl over her head. “What is this?” John heard the words loud and clear. The translator hardly hesitated. It speaks, John thought with ever more amazement. “This is hardly worth my time. If you want to through my domain, you will

have to do better,” the Dragon said, and slapped the bowl out of her hands, knocking her down in the process. John reacted before he thought, leaping out from behind the rock, and ran over to Anataka. She looked alright as John faced the monster. “Dragon, these people are under my protection- “ “Atlantean!” the creature bellowed in a gravelly voice, and with a mighty back hand, struck John back into the boulder he had just emerged from.

Chapter Ten: Embodiment He was stunned by the sudden attack, and impact. He crumpled to the ground, knowing he might have a few cracked ribs, and a concussion. He was trying to stand when Anataka grabbed a spear, and ran to his defense. “Quetzalcoatl-stop,” she said, holding the spear to his face. The Dragon’s eyes got even bigger at the insolence. “You dare confront me, you...you insignificant worm.” Anataka had bought John the time he needed to reorient himself. He saw her in the morning light, in her defiant stance, and knew who she really was. “I will teach you obedience.” The Dragon reared its head up and opened its gapping maw. “Anataka,” John yelled, as he got up, grabbed her around the waist, and clicked on his personal force field. The fiery blast was so intense it pushed them against the rock. The fire breath surrounded them in intense heat, so much so, it melted away the boulder they were leaning against, except a few inches that remained inside the field’s influence. John watched his energy meter retreat, and hoped it would last. Soon, the Dragon leaned back as if taking a deep breath. John picked Anataka up and clicked off the force field, letting a large slab of stone fall to the ground. He carried her over molten glass, and small fires. The tribes people’s eyes were as wide as the Dragon’s. This solidified his status as the Fire God. They jumped up, took their spears, and charged the monster. He set her down on cool sand as people ran by him toward the Dragon. Quetzalcoatl was so surprised by their animosity, and boldness, that he backed partially into the river. John ired their tenacity, but they were going to get themselves killed. He clicked on his cloak while running, and leaped into the air, landing on the Dragon’s back, alerting the creature to his presence. Spears flew all around as the creature turned and looked back down his back. His keen eyesight only saw a

wavy shimmer moving quickly toward his face. John knelt by the collar around its neck and clicked off the cloak, and enacted what was left of his personal force field. He was hoping the Dragon took time to regenerate its fire breath. He had his pistol out, and stuck it into an open port on the massive collar. “Stop fighting,” John yelled. The Dragon opened its mouth and reared back. John fired an electrical pulse into the collar. Sparks shot out, sending electrical ripples shimmering all around. The tribes people stopped and backed away, as the Dragon’s muscles stiffened, and its eyes rolled back in its head. He staggered, and then clumsily collapsed on the riverbank with the sound of earth-shaking thunder. The impact kicked up a wall of sand and dust that obscured their vision of the beast. A shadow appeared in the haze. John took shape the closer he walked toward them. Cheers broke out, Anataka ran and leaped into his arms. John put Anataka down, and raised his hands for quiet. “Quetzalcoatl is not to be harmed. We must learn to help each other; fighting is not the answer. When he wakes, I’ll try to convince him to let you . Now, go about your jobs. I will watch over you.” The tribes people murmured, and began to disperse. “They are sorry they doubted you,” Anataka said. “That was a foolish thing to do back there.” “I know. I wasn’t thinking.” “Don’t let it happen again,” John said, with a smile. He then turned to the Dragon and took out his comm, and called Chrysalis.

The shuttle hovered for a few minutes, as Drof found a landing spot, nearby. The tribe ran into the jungle out of fear, long before it touched down. The hatch opened up as John approached it. Rhe-A stepped out in a khaki jumpsuit with her black hair tied back into a bun. Her instruments hung from her belt.

“When I was told you were out here, I knew there would be trouble. Its attracted to you like gravity. Oh, and you smell bad, also.” She smiled a rare smile. “It’s good to see you, too.” Pandor-A poked her head out of the hatch and squinted her eyes. She was then coaxed out by Delphi-Apollo, his large grin was contagious as he gave John a bear hug. He released John, noticing he held his ribs. Rhe-A took note, and brought out her scanner. She looked at her instrument, and then froze from the sight of a giant creature in front of her. “Good to see you, again, John,” Delphi said, “I mean really see you.” “Good to see you, too, Apollo. Rhe-A, what about my ribs?” She just stared at the creature, then back at the scanner. “Uh, you’ll be alright. Take it easy for a couple of days, with no animal wrestling, and you should be fine.” Drof emerged with pleasantries toward John, but Pandor-A barely spoke, while they all stood there and ired the creature. He snorted up sand with every breath. Rhe-A slowly walked up to it, examining her scanner as she went. John followed, along with the rest. “Is he really one of Maya’s inventions?” John asked, putting a hand on the dark green shimmering scales. “Amazing,” Rhe-A said, as she kept scanning. “When we defeated Alon, his creatures died, or dispersed. We sent crews out over time, but found very few living specimens. After death they decayed rather quickly, so no time for fossilization. Their built-in sensor evading system, makes them difficult to pinpoint.” “Drof, Delphi, could you two hook up a link to that collar?” Drof studied it for a few seconds. “It’ll have to be a direct link. I’ll get the equipment.” “The natives call him Quetzalcoatl,” John said, as he followed her around.

“John, what are you doing out here?” “Looking for the key, studying the environment, recording the migration pattern of our Cousins, oh, and dragon slaying.” “Funny, sounds like you’re hiding to me.” “Probably, more like running away. I just had to get out of the TSD.” She hesitated. “I understand, but do you think it wise to expose the Cousins to us?” “Their level of technology has not advanced much. I envy them.” “But shouldn’t they at least be afraid of us,” she stated, looking ed John. He turned to see Anataka slowly approaching. “Where’s Athene-A? I specifically asked for her assistance.” “The TSD wouldn’t release her.” “Why not?” “Built in programming failsafe. If the temporal constants are not in align, then it doesn’t react until it is.” John studied the sky for a few moments, as if trying to broach a delicate topic, and then said, “I want you to do me a favor.” He waved Anataka over, she approached like a skittish cat, darting her head all around. He put a hand on her shoulder. “Don’t be afraid. They will not harm you.” “Are...are these your brother and sister Gods?” “Yes.” He looked at Rhe-A. “Don’t try to explain, just go with it. Can you take a DNA, and sub-DNA sample, and tell me what comparisons you find with us?” “Of course, but why?” “Just curious. I want to see how far the Atlantean DNA has advanced.”

Rhe-A looked suspicious, but took Anataka’s arm and placed the scanner on it. Anataka struggled, but it was like a small child struggling against a parent. She let go. “There, I’ll get to it later. How did you find this creature?” “He was extorting the tribes people for age into the next valley.” “How?” “He speaks fluent Cousin, and Atlantean.” “What? Impossible.” “Nothing’s impossible on this planet.” Rhe-A moved down its side. “These scales are like ship armor. No wonder we had a hard time beating them. This is a fantastic find, John. We can learn so much.” John had not seen her this excited in a long time. “We’re connected,” Delphi said, kneeling down on the dragon’s back and connecting the dytherium wire links to the collar access port. “Understood,” Drof replied, as he calibrated his handheld. Rhe-A reset her settings while moving around the monster’s head. She then set the scanner on its snout. She couldn’t help herself, she had to touch it. She stroked its scales. “It feels soft as skin, but I know how impenetrable it is.” She picked up her handheld and a huge cat eye opened, focusing on her. She squeaked, and fell back on her butt. “Atlanteans,” he bellowed, raising his huge head a few feet off the ground. “Quetzalcoatl, remain calm, or I will stun you again.” The creature slowly turned its head to see all the Atlanteans. “I surrender, please kill me now.” “Why would we do that?” John asked. “Because that’s what your kind does. You kill, or destroy everything around

you.” John flashed back to all that had been lost. His family, friends, planet, and almost his entire race. “Great forces are out to destroy us. We intend to survive.” “At what cost?” “...at all cost.” John could’ve sworn he saw the Dragon smile. “That’s my point.” This set John back a little. “Now, will you do what you do best, and kill. I grow weary.” “How about a pact. You look after our native Cousins, and promise not to harm them or us, and we’ll let you live. As a show of good faith, we’ll remove the collar.” The last part got the Dragon’s attention. “How can I trust you?” “We’re not the Atlanteans that did this to you. We stopped them, and you really don’t have a choice.” “Very well.” “Delphi,” John spoke up to his comrade, “can you unlock that thing?” He made a few more adjustments and then hopped down to Drof. “Of course, but it is so imbedded into the exoskeleton we’re going to have to be very cautious.” “I have an idea,” Rhe-A said.

By now, the tribes people had come back, but stayed at the edge of the jungle. Anataka was their unofficial spokesperson. Continuing to run back and forth with what information she understood.

Quetzalcoatl opened his eyes and focused on a small human before him. She knelt down and bowed her head, while holding up two strings of fish. He was confused. “Please accept this tribute as an apology. We never meant for you to be harmed,” Anataka softly said. The Dragon was ever more confused because he was defeated, and therefore, not a God. But they still believed in him. They still cared about him, and he didn’t even have to use fear, or intimidation. He saw the many others hanging back just outside the tree line. Anxiety on their faces. He stuck out his tongue. She glanced up, and smiled, putting the fish on it, she stepped back pulling the strings with her. He lifted his neck and gulped them down. “If you want more, we can get it.” “No, child, that will be enough for now. You and your people have earned the right of age. Now go.” The Dragon tried to smile. “He’s right my little friend,” Rhe-A said, walking up, startling her. “You’re only going to be in the way.” She suspiciously backed away, and then ran to her people. “Alright, you understand, you chose the hard way. I’m going to give you as much pain killer as I dare. This is still going to hurt,” Rhe-A told the giant. “You sound concerned,” the Dragon replied. “I’m concerned about all my patients.” “I vaguely ing another Atlantean.” He thought for a second, “Maya, used to say that.” Rhe-A looked shocked, then mad. “I’m not Maya.” “I guess we’ll see.”

“How did you survive for so long? The others we found had no ability to procreate, and a built-in expiration time frame.” “Some of our kind have adapted over time. We still can’t procreate, but if we consume large amounts of protein, and the element, gold, which can allow us to hibernate for very long periods of time.” “We have something in common after all.” Rhe-A looked up at Drof, and nodded an affirmation of being ready. “That explains a lot. Are you a clone, or hybrid?” “I don’t know. Let’s get on with it.” “Alright, here we go,” she said, and injected his tongue with a very large injector. She counted down in her head as she walked to Drof, who was examining his handheld. She looked at John on the Dragon’s back near the collar, while Drof and Pandor-A stood on each side. “Initiate, now.” Drof tapped the membrane screen and the collar split apart, peeling away like the skin off of a banana. Red blood oozed from the sunken band around its neck. The Dragon’s eyes widened as he raised his head and screamed, at the same time, belching out a column of fire high into the sky. The three stationed around the creature began using their pistols to cauterize the open wound. The Dragon expelled all its energy and collapsed again on the sandy river bank. The smell was almost unbearable. The cauterizing only took a few minutes and the billions of nanits quickly started their jobs. Apollo hopped down and met with the group, listening to the exchange. “Will he live?” John asked Rhe-A. “To early to tell, but his chances are good. Now, can I get my portable lab set up. Or do I have to do that, too.” She made her way to the shuttle.

Later that evening, all the tents were set, John walked into Rhe-A’s tent that doubled as a laboratory. She was sitting with her back to him looking into an instrument and tapping on a computer.

“How goes the research?” he asked before getting to close. “You would not believe it, if I told you,” she said without looking up. “Do you need some help?” “No.” “Have you eaten?” “No.” John brought a plate out from behind him. “I’ve got some nice, fresh native fruits.” She hesitated, and then said, “Damn it, sit, me.” John set the plate down next to her and pulled up a stool. “Hmmm, these are good.” “So, what am I not going to believe?” “Well, aren’t you the sly one. You know, not just anyone can get me to speculate before I have all the facts.” She took another bit, while John waited anxiously. Looking up, she saw the torture in his eyes and relented. “First, from our past research, we know the creatures were cloned from mostly Atlantean DNA mixed with certain animal DNA, very barbaric, and crude. Maya must’ve been in a hurry, or Aztek-Alon was pushing her. Regardless, this creature doesn’t have the signature of a clone, I’m trying to confirm it now, but he may be an Atlantean.” Rhe-A let that sink in. “My speculation is, he either volunteered for the transformation, or Alon found a way to punish, and use, his dissenters at the same time.” “An Atlantean,” John said to himself, disbelieving how far Alon would go. Beep, beep, beep, the computer called for attention. She picked it up. “It’s confirmed, all these millennia, we have managed to reconstruct a sizeable amount of data, from abandoned computers to memories. His name is ThestorHermes, or was.” “Can we change him back?”

“His situation is much like Xen’s, I would have to wipe the DNA, and sub-DNA, plus, I don’t have a pure sample, the person would not be the same, all things that make them who they are, their essence, would be lost, and still no guarantees of survival from the shock.” John studied her information carefully. “I’ve also discovered memory inhibitors,” she continued. “He probably doesn’t even know who he is. Just pre-programmed knowledge to destroy Atlanteans. I’m surprised you were able to capture him alive.” “How is he, now?” Rhe-A glanced at a phantom display near her desk, that had all manner of readings on it. “Right now, he’s stable. A few more hours should make the difference.” “Just think, we could have a whole planet full of creatures.” “When I get back, I’ll put together more teams to investigate.” “What about our Cousins?” “This hemisphere’s level of advancement is much slower, but consistent with an abundant food and water source. Although, they are still behind the rest of the world, which is already well into the Stone Age.” “What’s the time estimate for them to reach spaceflight?” “My Cousin Intelligence and Advancement Program, Pandor-A helped me developed, is constantly being updated with the most recent data.” She glanced, and mentally manipulated the membrane computer. “Another fifteen to twenty thousand years, given the level of our interference.” “I hope that much time won’t be needed. We’ve got to find that key and end this.” “Why don’t you ask what you really want to know.” “You suspect something about Anataka, and her correlation to Athene-A.” John couldn’t hid his emotions.

Rhe-A read his facial expression. “I thought so. At first, I didn’t find anything, until I looked closer at the DNA and RNA sequencing. It was uncannily close, but still not enough. Then I looked into the sub-DNA, and I found this-” She flicked a hand, and a 3-D motion picture with a double helix, rotated softly in the air. “-I compared it with Athene-A’s DNA. It matches by ninety-nine point ninenine seven percent-like her inner self is part of this girl. I’m running more tests, but I believe this girl is the embodiment of Athene-A. This is a rare opportunity to study an Extra-Temporal-Dissociation. There have been a few reports on the subject, and it seems to originate from the original children we manipulated. Athene-A was part of that experiment, along with hundreds of other Atlanteans. I can’t wait to study this phenomenon closer.” “As long as it’s done from Chrysalis. I think we have enough Gods hanging around. They are scared and confused. I think less is better. I’ll continue to monitor them, while I search for the key. Tomorrow, all should report back to base.” “But-” “I’ll report everything.” John got up. “Thank you.” He left with barely a goodbye.

John sat next to the beast, monitoring his vitals. The creature’s huge eye opened and focused on him. “How long was I unconscious?” “Just overnight. How do you feel?” “Like I flew into a mountain, head first.” John smiled. “It’ll get better.” The handheld beeped loudly for attention. He only had time to glance at the intruder alert. The sky darkened and a heavy breeze blew up sand and dirt, bringing everyone out of their tents. A loud scream came from a second Dragon as it hovered overhead. John could have sworn the words were more telepathic than spoken.

The feminine voice called out his name in panic. She landed heavily on the riverbank and charged. “Quetzalcoatl!” He raised his head up off the sand, only to become nauseated. “Draga, it’s alright,” he said. She did not, or would not hear him. The Atlanteans had armed themselves and made a defensive line behind John. The angry Dragon approached rapidly, causing John to back up. She stopped short, her eyes grew, and her head tilted back. “Atlanteans, what have you done? I will kill all of you.” “Draga!” Quetzalcoatl barked, squinting at the streak of pain in his head. She stopped and stared at him, relenting. She put her nose against his. “Listen to me, you must fight your instincts, not them. They fought Aztek-Alon, they helped me.” “But...look at you.” “I’m recovering from the collar removal. I’ll be alright in a few hours.” Her anger began dying down, as she looked at his neck. John, and the others, began to relax, but stayed alert. The tribes people were nowhere to be seen. Rhe-A stepped up next to John, when he said to the newest guest, “Hello, Draga, I’m John, and this is Rhe-A, my Chief Medical Officer. We want to help.” “The only thing Atlanteans do, is destroy,” she hissed back. That cut John to the bone, by being compared to the enemy of the Galaxy. “Despin-A, please listen to them.” The female Dragon turned. “Who? What’s the matter with you? What have they done to you?” She sounded distressed. John knew he had to talk fast in order to keep this situation from getting out of control. “Your name is really Despin-A, and his is Thestor-Hermes, you are both Atlanteans.”

“Impossible, what kind of trick are you trying, Atlantean?” “He’s right Despin-A, I .” “I’m sorry Thestor,” John said, as he gracefully moved closer, “I thought things would be easier between us if I had the memory inhibitors removed. It will still take time to recover them.” The big Dragon sat up on its haunches. “I’m glad you did.” Thestor took DespinA’s clawed hand. “If you take their treatment, you will be enlightened, and that slave collar can be removed.” “Deep down, I feel you’re right, but it’s so hard to trust.” “I know, so trust me.” “Understood.”

John sat by the two beasts as the sun came up the following day. He stayed up to monitor both their vital signs. Most of the tribes people overcame their fear, and were camped on the river bank again. Anataka lay sleeping next to John, after a long evening of supplying food to the behemoths. “Any change?” Rhe-A said, as she walked by him, and put her hand on DespinA’s snout. Her eye popped open. “How do you feel?” “Her head popped up in surprise. “Ow, ow, I . Like I drank too much.” “Try to take it slow for a couple of hours.” She took out her handheld and read it. “Oh, and I have another surprise, I took the liberty of modifying your DNA sub structure. You can have children now.” “What?” She raised her head again. “Ow, ow.” “Don’t thank me yet, highly experimental, and since so much of your DNA has been manipulated from reptilian, you’ll have them the way most reptilians do. That means eggs outside the body, and constant incubation.”

Thestor looked at her seriously. “How do we have children?” “I can’t do everything. You two figure it out.” “John,” Thestor said, “can we be changed back?” “I was hoping you wouldn’t ask me that. The transformation is so complicated that if we tried...you might not be you when it was done. Memories lost, personality might not be the same, you could very well lose the love you have for each other. We cannot guarantee anything, but it will be your choices.” If a dragon had facial expressions, John saw disappointment in his. “You don’t have to decide now, the nanite micro-bots have a built-in comm system. If you need to us, just say, Chrysalis, come in. You are one of us. We will help you in any way we can.” “What’s a Chrysalis?” “Our secret home base.” “Oh, yes, Destroyers, Atlantis, leaving-power points-the skull key.” John perked up. “Have you seen it?” “I have seen ones like it.” He looked in the direction across the river. “Beyond that mountain range, where your...our Cousins migrate. I have seen one similar to it in a cave where the tainted live.” “Tainted?” “Cousins, that aren’t really Cousins. Humans taste bad enough, but these humanoids taste like, tainted beedo root, very smart, fast, and dangerous. They have perfected crude projectile weapons, so we leave them alone, and viceversa.” “Interesting,” is all John said. “Can you take me there?” “No, besides, the tribes people migrate through their territory on their way to their own destination. Why they migrate, I don’t know. Never cared. I’m sure if you ask them, they’ll tell. It’s about half way up the side of the mountain that cuts through a . you’ll see the battlements. Good luck.”

“One other thing; you are contagious.” The Dragon looked at him suspiciously. “If you inject your blood into another mutated entity like yourself, they will become as free as you. We figured that might be easier than tracking each one of them down. Choose wisely, and good luck to you both.”

The following day brought clouds and the threat of rain. Anataka was becoming quite the influence in the tribe. She relayed messages from the Gods to alleviated most of her tribe’s fears. Her turquoise, and emerald dress made light clacking noises as she paced back and forth, looking up at the sky. “We’re all packed,” Rhe-A said to John, after she had bid her new friends goodbye. “Sure, you don’t want to go back to the safety of the base?” “Not just yet,” John said, glancing across the way to Anataka. “I’ve got a few more things to investigate.” “We’ll see you soon.” John had already said his goodbyes to the others, so he just watched the shuttle rise above the trees and disappear into the distance. “Huehueteotl,” Anataka said, kneeling on one knee in the sand, “we cannot fly, we must cross the river, soon.” The clouds darkened and moved fast. The log rafts the tribe had been building were being loaded with people and supplies. John was confused for a few seconds until he figured it out. Monsoons and flash flooding would make this river imable for months, and with their backs to the river, they would be easy prey. “Alright, let’s get everyone across the river.” Some had already made it across, and the log rowers were starting back. John explained the situation to Thestor and Despin-A, about how time was a factor. Fear of being left behind overrode their fear of Gods, as they began piling on the Dragon’s backs. Anataka and John were the last to climb aboard Thestor, giving

them the height to see Despin-A and her bunch more than half way across. A quarter of the way into Thestor’s trip, John heard it, a distant roar. A wall of water came crashing around a distant bend. “Fly Thestor,” John called out. “I can’t, too much drag, and they will fall off.” He charged forward, shaking everyone down, causing them grab his scales for security. He was more than half way across, when he lifted his wing to block the impact of the water that now took them downstream. He fought for balance as natives spit out water. Despin-A shook water out of her ears, while clawing her way up the washed-out riverbank, and to safety. Looking back, she didn’t see Thestor. “Off, off, everyone off.” They understood, and quickly began jumping off. Thestor, finally regained his balance, as he clawed at floating trees. He was almost to the other side when a particularly large, uprooted tree smashed into his backside. The jolt jarred Anataka loose, and she flew backward into the air. John saw the fear in her eyes, as he concentrated on bringing her back. He was too late. He knew that he had little to no time to react. Negating technology and wisdom, he leaped in after her as she went under. John hit the water a little awkward letting it roll him around. He couldn’t find her. Choking back the panic and fear, he concentrated. Where are you? he thought. He swam and searched-there-he pushed forward and down. The stone filled dress was pulling her down. Jay unconsciously held his breath from the sight of the murky water, and when he thought, he was going to drown, he felt a cold hand, and latched on. He felt some relief, while his Grandfather raced to the surface with Anataka firmly in one arm. It was John that hit the surface, allowing Jay to take an imaginary breath. He proceeded into the air until he landed roughly on the bank. Thestor dug deep into the washed-out riverbank, trying to gain footing as natives clung on for life. He was losing, as dirt fell away more quickly than he could grab. He felt a gust of air. Despin-A landed in front of him, holding out a claw. He smiled a toothy smile, and grabbed it. She fluttered her wings and dug in, giving him the leverage, he needed.

John laid her cold lifeless body down, and reached for his med-kit, but discovered his whole belt was gone. He raised her up and gently squeezed the water out of her lungs. He then breathed life into her. He continued with his task, while Thestor crashed through the jungle some fifty yards away. Booming into the open. He saw John trying to resuscitate Anataka. Twenty natives slowly gathered around, watching, and not understanding. She was not responding, as panic again, began to creep back into his mind. He continued without pause. The longer it took the more despair took over. He raised her up and slapped her across the face. “Athene-A!” Her eyes flicked open, and as if recognizing him, said, “John?” Then her eyes closed, and she ed out. John smiled, picked her up, and walked toward the gathering crowd. The tribes people knelt and bowed as he approached. “Thestor, Despin-A, thank you for your help.” Thestor just grunted, and then Despin-A said, “Just over that ridge, a couple of hundred yards, is where they usually make camp.”

Anataka woke just before they arrived at the camp site. She was obviously uncomfortable being carried. The camp was being set up when they came out of the jungle. Anataka squirmed to be let down. The tribe had already gotten word on what happened at the river, and now saw Anataka as a Demi-God, one who was brought back to life by a God. She moved through the camp nervously as they knelt and whispered, “Chalchiuhtlicue,” over and over. The translator was having a little trouble, but John could make it out, ‘Goddess of the river, or water, with a green stone dress.’ She began shooing them away, and helped to set up the camp. Fires were soon started, with a little help, they dried off, and settled in for the night.

The following morning brought sunshine, and the laughter of children acting out

the previous day’s events. The smell of fish mixed with smoke permeated the area. John sat up and watched the sight, as Anataka overslept. His cloths were wrinkled from the activities of the past few days. He heard the impact tremors, as Thestor and Despin-A approached. He got up to meet them. “Thank you for risking your lives for them,” he said, looking in the direction of the tribes people. “They are resilient.” Despin-A gave Thestor a wry look. “It felt like the right thing to do.” “They are relatively safe now. We should be going,” Thestor said, trying not to sound gruff. “Look in on us, from time to time.” “We will Captain, and may Enlightenment guide us.” John just smiled. The two turned and made a running start for the tree line, spreading their wings, they lofted themselves into the air, and were soon out of sight. “Will we see them again?” Anataka asked from her sitting position. He sat down beside her. “It’s possible.” She had a confused look on her face. “I had the strangest dream. I was flying through the heavens, great cities, fire, destruction-you.” He put his hand behind her neck and smiled. “They’re just dreams. Don’t worry about them.” She didn’t look convinced, getting up, and staggering a little. “I’m hungry. Are you?”

The trek through the jungle was arduous, but John was finally told why they migrate. Food-mostly, most tribes are too large to themselves, so, every year the smaller groups would meet at their ancient tribal hunting grounds. They exchange ideas, trade, chose who they want to reproduce with, games, and other

important things. The valley they are going to has an abundance of food this time of year, enough to a large group for at least a month. Then, the groups split up and follow their previous migration patterns. The nights were very dark in the dense jungle. The tribe had adapted well, and made quick work of foraging and hunting. The group seemed to be excited about the reunion. Until they followed a path that led to a large totem pole tree carving. The group became solemn and fearful. John studied the pole with his equipment he managed to recover from the river. He looked at his handheld, and then back at the carved grotesque faces. Human blood, he noticed, stained the wood, as he analyzed the area. Camp was set up a short distance away. Through the night, the mood was serious as if anticipating an impending battle. Anything that could not be strapped to the body was to be left behind. Anataka sat and prepared her travel pack, while darting her head around to strange noises. “Anataka,” John quietly said, “what are you preparing for?” “The Demon crossing.” She saw the non-understanding in his face. “In order to get to our ancient hunting ground, we have to through Demon territory. Evil creatures that stalk us night and day, until we are through the valley. We will lose many. We must rest, it will be a long few days with not much stopping.” She laid on her fur blanket and tried to sleep. He took her advice, and took a nap.

John was up well before sun up, along with most of the tribe. They quietly gathered their things as they lined up single file with warriors, men and women, proportionately split to protect the children. The extra weight of fresh water made John curious, so he checked with the satellite and determined there were no more rivers in the direction they were going, just ponds, far between each other. Following the trail as quietly as they could, the Chief led as fast as the slowest could keep up. John’s sharp vision and hearing was accosted by the sights and

sounds of the morning jungle. He towered over the middle of the caravan, his reasoning was, he could get to either end at the first sign of trouble. After mid day, they gathered in a clearing for rest and food. They quietly stayed close together with guards posted. The day was partly cloudy, but the sun was warm and bright. John watched as they only used hand signals to get the crowd moving again. They were well into the trip when the sun was starting to cool, that’s when John noticed the birds and bugs became silent. He pulled out his handheld and checked for life forms. The machine went crazy until he narrowed the parameters. While he was making his final adjustments, he knew they were surrounded. John whistled for the Chief, who was leading the pact, he turned, and John gave the sign for surrounded. The Chief ‘s eyes grew as he broke the silence, and yelled for everyone to run. He thought this was a bad tactic, but he was unfamiliar with the threat, so he jogged along with them. In a few seconds, a snare net grabbed two people and pulled them up into the air. John pulled out his pistol and shot the rope vine. He got under them before they hit the ground. Without warning, creatures launched themselves out of the jungle and grabbed who they could. One launched himself at John, but bounced off, and did a back flop on the ground. He hesitated at what he saw. Aztek-Alon’s mutations were not Atlantean mutants, but Cousin. They exhibited the same characteristics, pasty white skin, large incisors, stronger, faster, and more animalistic. John was glad they didn’t inherit the full strength and agility of an Atlantean. Their smaller size, compared to him, allowed him to estimate that he could probably take on four or five, but any more would overwhelm him. The vampire squinted in the day light as he got up and yelled. He heard Anataka scream and looked in her direction in time to see her being carried off into the jungle. He was brought back to his present situation by multiple screams, as three other creatures charged him, pushing him back. He lost his footing and fell back onto a bed of foliage, which promptly gave way. He crashed down ten feet into a hole trap. Dirt, tree branches, logs, and anything else that was close fell in on him. He lay there trying to move things aside, as they fell back in just as quickly. He was glad it was a capturing trap and not a food trap, since there were no spikes

sticking up. He took out his pistol and began disintegrating what caved in on him. He leaped out of the hole to a quiet jungle. He listened carefully, and located the tribe. The survivors collected in a clearing with warriors posted. A third of them were missing. John spoke to the Chief, telling him to continue. He was going to track down the captured and bring them back. The Chief looked relieved, and the group headed back down a trail, moving as quickly as possible. A few hours before sunset, he reached the base of the mountain. The handheld told him where they were, but it failed to pick up the traps made out of the native material. He was more careful after he sprang the first one, his quickness saved him from injury, but it made a lot of noise. So, he hovered over the ones he crossed, until he got to a tree line that left him with no cover. The exposure was too great, so he clicked on his personal cloaking device just before the sun went down. He followed foot prints, and went around traps. He took it slow as he stepped up on a large carved out ledge. Moving quietly, he approached camp fires and jubilant noises. A guard with blood drained pale skin stood up and sniffed the air. He wore a leather skirt with small human bones tied together around his neck. The guards heightened senses made John pause and be more careful as he moved around the creature waving a spear around in the air. Moving further in, he had his pistol ready, counting at least eighteen. Being cautious, he moved into the cave mouth, slipping past a few more guards as the distant singing and laughing got louder. The cave was large, which gave him the advantage of avoidance. A couple of twists and turns, and he heard a scream, he moved quickly toward it. An alcove held a human woman and two male vampires. The larger one sank his teeth into her jugular as the other held her down. John wanted to help, but he had to know more as he moved on down the tunnel. A right turn, then a left, brought him to a string of wooden cells that held all his tribe’s people, and a few others he didn’t recognize. He moved down the line, noticing that more than a few had puncture wounds on their necks. Good, he thought, they’re just feeding, not killing. He saw Anataka squatted down near the cell door. He thought she was darting her head around in fear, but it was the opposite, she was counting guards, and

studying the cell doors weak points. John skirted by a guard making him turn around, as if being watched. He then moved further down the tunnel. Kneeling beside the wooden cell door, he touched Anataka’s hand. She jerked back in surprise, then smiled, and put her hand back. “Huehueteotl?” “Yes,” he whispered, “make it sound like you’re praying to me when you talk.” “But I was.” John shook his invisible head. “I’m going to need some time to figure out how to get all of you out. So, stay put, and get everyone ready to move quickly.” “Oh, Huehueteotl,” she said looking up at the ceiling, “why don’t you just kill the Demons?” Some of her cell mates began to look at her. “I will protect you, be patient. I’ll be back.” “Please, Huehueteotl, don’t leave us, save us.” The others began to chime in. “I will.” He reached for the leather straps that secured the door, and broke them. “Now, only go when I tell you.” “I understand, my lord.” The guard came back and thumped his spear across the wooden posts, making Anataka fall back. He felt that feeling again, and looked around, but soon the feeling was gone. The light was bright up ahead. John stepped around a corner. A dug-out room to his left radiated artificial light that beamed out. He stepped in, only to be met by a force field. The repulsion was mild, but it disrupted his cloak for several seconds. He quickly looked around for witnesses. None, so he took out his handheld, and found the frequency, thus, shutting it off. He gazed over Atlantean equipment, a lot of it was very outdated, but Atlantean, nonetheless. Most of it was medical research equipment mixed with weaponry and transportation agoam crystal drives. Examining the clutter more closely, a death scream came from down the tunnel. He moved in that direction, rounding a bend, he saw it. A skull, green in color, smaller that the key, but highly polished. It sat on a pedestal facing the men that

held a woman down on her back stretched across a stone block. Her eyes were set as she stared at John. The calico feather dressed vampire lifted her heart into the air as he chanted. There wasn’t much blood, she had been drained before the extraction. The murderer dripped blood into his mouth, and then threw the heart at another lit alcove. The heart sizzled on the force field before it dropped on a pile of other burned hearts. John fought back the horror. “No!” He pulled out his pistol and decloaked, firing at the leader, flinging him back against a cave wall. Three creatures appeared and attacked, but John’s anger always made his telekinesis stronger, and with a flick of his hand, they all flew back into the walls. John saw movement out of the corner of his eye, and a sense of familiarity as a half dozen more came running in. He flicked them away like flies. In the bright room stood a silhouette on the inside of the force field. It had the shape of a woman. The field melted away. “Stop!” came a feminine voice, “Leave us. Now!” The frenzied creatures slowed their activities and slinked away, as if beaten. “John? John is that you?” She ran to him.

Chapter Eleven: Mutants He was unsure what to do, but he stayed on the defensive. A smiling vampiric body hugged him with a very strong embrace. John hugged her in return. “Maya, what is going on here?” Her strength wavered as John ed her when her knees buckled. He picked her up and moved her to the room she had come from. In the middle was an open stone box at knee height. He laid her down on dusty age-worn furs. Her white glassy eyes opened. “Maya, what’s wrong with you?” “Blood,” she whispered, “I need blood. I... I haven’t fed in a long time.” “Will mine do?” “Atlantean is the best.” John hesitated. “Don’t worry about contamination. It takes more than just blood transference to be infected.” John slowly put his hand to her mouth, and the other on his pistol. “My personally designed nanites probably won’t help you.” “They don’t need to.” He winced as she injected her incisors into his wrist. His arm began to tingle. Perhaps, he thought, she was draining his blood faster than his heart could pump it. Then his legs began to tingle, and he started to feel light headed. “Alright Maya, that’s enough for now.” She didn’t stop. “Maya!” He pulled away in revulsion, watching blood run down her chin. While she sat up, the color started coming back into her face. Her eyes cleared, and blue eyes rested on a sea of red. She wiped the blood away, and looked away in embarrassment. “I’m sorry. What year is it?”

“Depends on when you want to start counting.” “Probably the incident in the cave, when we last met.” “One thousand seven hundred and thirty-six years, and six point three months.” She sat on a partially exposed rock to regained her composer. “I’ve been hibernating on and off ever since, this time I over slept by a few hundred years. I have dreamed about this moment. Seeing you is no surprise.” John felt her mind reach out. It was easily blocked, but he allowed some things through to save on lengthy explanations. Jay felt his mind kick into fast forward, as sights and sounds accosted his brain. Just when he thought he couldn’t stand it any longer, it ceased. She allowed the same thing. Once, all they were willing to reveal was done, she stood up, and began removing her tattered Atlantean rebel clothes. A few seconds later, two male vampires brought in a small cargo case full of water, and put it down in front of her naked body, and then graveled away. Other than her pale skin and fangs, which she had retracted, John thought she was just as beautiful as the day they met hundreds of lifetimes ago, on a planet that no longer existed. She looked over at the doorway at the pile of crispy hearts, and then she looked at the dead woman on the cave floor. John saw sadness in her face just before she sank into the makeshift tub. “Things have not gone as planned. They were supposed to be my guards, feed off of animals, and remain inconspicuous. Their primal nature must have won out while I was not supervising. I’m sorry. I know how you feel about these human Cousins. I will rectify the mistake as soon as I can.” She slipped under the water, returning cleaner, and more refreshed. After washing, she stepped out of the water, opened another sealed cargo case, and brought out a towel. She was drying herself off as she approached John. “I can deduce you and the others have a modern facility.” “Yes,” not wanting to give away too much. She put her head on his chest. “John, I want to come home. I’m weary of living like an animal. I’m going to go insane if I have to endure much longer. , I did save your life back in the cave.” John reached up and took her by the arms and pushed her back. “That’s the only

reason I don’t haul you back to Chrysalis and put you on trial, again.” “Please, John,” she begged, “I’ll do whatever you want.” She dropped the towel. His anger fled as he saw more than just desperation. “Get dressed, we have some catching up to do.” He turned and walked out. John had to pin a few mutants to the wall, as he released the prisoners. He led them outside of the stench of the cave. They were blocked from leaving by twenty of Maya’s minions. The confrontation was tense, as the vampire’s danced around, pushing and shoving one another, waiting for their leader to give the word to attack. “Stand down.” Maya yelled, stepping to the middle of the group. They heeled and drifted back. “All of you, into the cave.” They did, reluctantly. She hissed at them as they went by. John turned to Anataka. “Take everyone to the foot of the mountain and set up a defensive camp. I will meet you, soon.” She gave him a nod of understanding and began giving orders and leading them away. “She’s pretty, and I like her dress.” “Yes, she’s special.” “Come, sit.” They sat on stumps, while using a stone for a table. The night sky was clear with a light breeze. Maya looked up. “Things have changed a lot since the days of Terrah.” “That’s one thing about this universe, everything changes. Maya, where’s AztekAlon, and the key?” Her euphoric look drained away. “After the cave incident, he went even more insane. I tried to persuade him to stop his idea of conquest for years, but when I helped you-he knew. He tried to kill me. Even after I escaped, he pursued me for centuries. I’ve been hiding like an animal ever since. Of course, taking one of his

projectors didn’t help.” “Projector?” “The skull you saw in the cave. Alon was so paranoid, he had thirteen stone skulls carved out. When he aligned them with the original key, the same frequency resonates and a holographic needle of the original key’s location is revealed, no matter where it goes. But you have to have all thirteen. He decided that if he hid the key, but made more to find it, he would have more bargaining power. He sent out one of his lieutenants with a small work force, to hid the key, and when they returned, he promptly killed them. Then he sent out the projectors to be safe guarded by his worshiping human masses.” “Great, so now in order to find the key, I have to find thirteen others.” “Well, actually, twelve. I’m giving you the one I have-as a show of sincerity.” “Maya, a lot of things have happened, death and destruction are at the top of the list, and you were at the pinnacle of it all.” “John, please.” She put her hand on his. He felt the coldness, but saw her genuineness. He blew out a long breath. “I’ll advocate for your return before the Council, but only after you meet my conditions.” “Yes, anything.” “You haven’t heard them yet. Teach your vampires to respect human life, all life around them. Teach them the Atlantean way, without murder, working together for greater good. That means being tolerant of other beings and cultures.” She slumped back. “That could take decades...but I agree.” “Good, now leave the mutants alone, especially the Dragons. Yes, I know now that they used to be Atlanteans, or clones of Atlanteans.” “I protested that project, and it almost got me killed then, also. If they leave me and mine alone, I will do the same.”

“Give it your best effort.” John got up. “Is that a portable tent on your belt, or are you just enjoying my company?” She smiled a wicked smile. “Yes...to both. I’m going to go to the bottom of the mountain and use it to protect the innocents.” “Please, John, please let me stay the night. I promise I will behave...and I’ll start working with my tribe, tomorrow.” John looked into her begging eyes, and then looked up at the night sky for guidance. He shook his head and said, “Come on.”

John tied the food processor into his miniature laboratory and supplied a sample of his blood. Artificially stimulated, and cloned blood filled a cup. He handed it to Maya, she smelled it like a fine wine before devouring it. She then retrieved another, while John went out and secured the perimeter, making sure everyone was fed and comfortable around the tent. He returned and sat down to the day’s events, while Anataka brought him something to drink. Maya’s freshly showered self, and drying hair, sat down across from John, she was wrapped in a thermal towel from chest to knees. “Have you heard from Atlantis?” she asked, noticing Anataka glaring at her. “Not since the exodus, but we continue to send signals.” She looked at Anataka, and angrily said, “What do you want, pet?” Her eyes flared red. Anataka refused to back down, but glanced at John for guidance. “Relax, you two. We’re supposed to have an accord right now.” “As you wish, Huehueteotl. My apologies, Demon Goddess.” Then she backed away. Maya relaxed. “These human Cousins and their deities.”

“Oh, I don’t know, Demon Goddess does sound about right.” He smiled. She relented. “Any sign of the Destroyers?” “No, them either.” “Do you think they’re gone?” “I don’t know, but I do get a feeling from time to time that they’re still around, or an odd dream. Nothing conclusive.” “I think they’re gone. We should take this opportunity to build our own ship and leave.” “Leaving our Cousins to suffer the consequences of our actions.” Anataka brought him a refill. “Thank you.” She bowed, giving Maya as little eye as she could. Maya didn’t miss the glance. “She really doesn’t like me.” “Probably just good instincts.” Maya gave him a wry look. “Where did you find her?” “It’s all in my report.” She blew out an exasperated breath, and leaned back. “I really miss technology. Would you consider leaving me the tent?” “No, and as for that, I’ll send someone to pick up the old tech in your cave.” “You wouldn’t.” “Yes, I would. You’ve gone thousands of years without any real tech, a few more shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Really, you can’t be serious.” “Let’s call it-penance. A small price to pay for all your indiscretions.” Maya angrily jumped up and hissed, and then she made her way to the bedroom to change.

John snapped the tent module on his belt, while Maya looked on in the morning sun. The group of tribes people kept their distance as the two conversed. “You had better get inside before you burn.” “It’s alright. It feels good for a little while. When can I expect an inspection of my work with the children?” “Maybe when we migrate back this way. I will let you know by your implant comm. Goodbye Maya.” He turned and abruptly walked away, tossing the green stone skull up in the air, over and over.

It took two days for the survivors to catch up to the tribe. Festivities ensued, dancing, singing, and eating was done for a solid day. Story telling of the events was loud and animated. John sat back and studied the skull with his handheld. It had a slight agoam radiation signature, but it was mixed with something he couldn’t identify. He would continue to study it. The tribe moved confidently into the valley. Anataka led the way, her new found Demi-Goddess status even had the Chief bowing before her. She accepted the responsibility with ease as she brought the tribe to the gathering. John marveled at the beauty of the area, and the number of inhabitants was staggering. He was told seven tribes made their presents known here. They set up large camps and some wood structures were constructed for meetings of the Chiefs, and Council . “They call it Chichen Itza,” Anataka told him, as they gazed over the crowd that was forming a wall in front of them.

John’s translator called it, the seven great rulers at the mouth of the well of the Itza people. The Chief Councilor, and his tribe Chiefs, approached with spears at the ready. They gazed astonished at the giant and the girl in the green dress. John saw their own tribe’s Chief approach them with his hands up, and talking as fast as he could to try to explain the unexplainable. John could tell the Chief was not being very convincing. The Chief Councilman was getting hostile and working up the crowd. Shouts and jeers broke out as the warriors thrust with their spears menacingly, and then back away. The situation was quickly getting out of hand. John moved up to his Chief and put his hand on his shoulder. The Chief froze. “It’s alright Chief, you did well.” The Chief half smiled and backed away. John looked at his hands, concentrated on the molecules and their reactions. Suddenly, his hands burst into flames. He held his arms out to his side and looking up as if praying. He was hoping that this would have a more dramatic effect on the crowd. They began backing away. He slung his hand toward the ground, releasing the fireball. It splashed on the ground near the Chief Councilor, who quickly hopped back. John threw another, and then another, soon, a path formed as a sea of people parted, letting the tribe walk to the lodge next to a sink hole of fresh water. The crowd kneeled and bowed to the God, Huehueteotl.

Jay observed from above, the important people of the groups. John sat on the floor in a lodge with his legs crossed, He was explaining to the Council that he was there to observe, not judge or punish. He wasn’t sure if he got his point across, but life went on as it had for thousands of years. At one point, he brought out the green skull, and tried to explain that he needed to find more. None had seen one, but a few had heard tales of their existence. He would continually take those people with him to track down their claims. He would be gone for weeks at a time, but never found another tracker skull. Each time he returned, Anataka would be very pleased to see him, and each

time, he found it more difficult to leave. Sitting for hours, he would watch the children play. Occasionally, one would be bold enough to approach him, and even ask for him to them. The simple life was not bad for someone with John’s experience. He blended in comfortably.

Jay, by now, could tell when mundane, and unrelated events whisked by. He relaxed and enjoyed his Grandfather’s serene time in the jungle. Years rolled by like calm white clouds. John, and the persona of Athene-A, became very close, so much so, they had a child. John tried to maintain his composure as he examined Anataka. He found her remarkably calm, as she screamed once, and he had a daughter. He couldn’t explain his jubilation because he had not felt this way...ever. Now, he was beginning to understand the Atlanteans that chose to live among the natives instead of hiding away in the mountain for thousands of years, waiting on a rescue that may never come. He no longer begrudged their decision. Soon, his smiling face handed the little girl over to her mother and then he laid down beside her. Anataka smiled with happiness. She and the baby soon fell asleep. He calmly watched over them, thinking he hadn’t been this happy since he, himself, was a child. Jay felt his happiness, while he sensed more years flash by, another child was born, a boy was bestowed upon them. Cousins were no longer just a name he gave these people, but they were now-family. John was almost all native, since now he dressed like them, and didn’t use any technology, unless absolutely necessary. It pained him not to teach his new family what he knew. How technology could improve all their lives, but he knew how dangerous it was as long as the Destroyers were out there. On lots of occasions, Chrysalis would call with an anomaly for him to check out. Depending on distance, he would either call Thestor, or a shuttle, to have him flown to the disruption. Almost all were false alarms, but a few would be native Cousins trying to work some long lost Atlantean equipment. He did this for years as every crisis would be handled as he thought best.

In these years, the migration journey took them near Maya, and her band. They were left alone to as John met with her. She was becoming more and more irritated as the years went by, fore every year, John would test her band, and every year they would fail to meet his expectations. Over time, John saw one adventure after another: rescuing Cousins from a variety of calamities, helping, and fighting Aztek-Alon’s mutants. Thestor had spread the nanites, the intelligent ones thrived, while the more animalistic ones hunted, and were hunted. For his help, John, and his tribe, would locate and mine gold for the Dragons. When the children were safe with the tribe, Anataka would accompany him on some of his safer missions. He found her to be more of a help than a hindrance. She grasped the situation quickly and would render assistance. Twenty-three years into his alternate life, John thought this might be where he would spend the rest of his life. No sign of Atlantis, or the Destroyers. He felt useless back at Chrysalis, but here in the jungle, he had a wife, and children, that had their own children. One was a step away from Chiefdom. He taught them how to live better with nature and not depend on advanced tools to make their lives easier. John was helping sharpen sticks with sandstones, when he got a rare call from Chrysalis about an energy spike about a thousand miles north-east of his position. They offered to send a shuttle, but he wanted to keep as much technology away from the natives as possible. He called upon Thestor again, who, seemed to be happy for the distraction, or has happy as a Dragon could be. John concluded that a new batch of children had hatched, and he was looking for an escape. John grabbed his tech and clothes, Anataka packed food in his backpack, although he didn’t need it, he knew she would. Her graying hair didn’t slow her down. He saw no danger for just an observation mission, so he welcomed her company. They said goodbye to their family, and marched into the jungle. Thestor caught up with them, and soon they were airborne. Anataka held on to John and the makeshift harness, which was little more than a necklace to the giant. Thestor questioned him about current events, as they started over a large gulf of water. John scanned the underwater creator from an asteroid impact

almost sixty-five million years earlier. From their other research, this meteor devastated much of the plant and animal life of the time. They flew north across the gulf to a peninsula. Thestor landed on the coastline on the east side of the peninsula. John adjusted his handheld as he looked out across the ocean Atlantis used to call home. He studied the readouts, nothing out of the ordinary. He recalled working on a power point unit several hundred miles out into the ocean. Atlantis used to sit next to it. John wondered if it was malfunctioning, maybe, it was worth a look. The power points had been neglected for thousands of years, in order to keep their location a secret. If it were giving off a signal, he had to fix it, fast, or the Destroyers could pick it up, no matter how far away they were. “Thestor, I need a closer look. Let’s go due east.” “Very well.” A few running steps, and they were on their way. Many different people had worked on the power point pyramids. Most never worked on more than four or five, in order to keep locations secret. Computers were purged, and the crystal skull remained the only key to using their ultimate weapon. He realized a long time ago that was a mistake. A short time later, Thestor was circling an area of water John was studying with his handheld. Trusting his senses, he called for Thestor to skim the water below them. The dragon did as asked, while John watched the water closely. “Thestor, take us down into the water.” “You do realize I’m more of a bird than a fish.” “Trust me.” “Understood.” Thestor slowed and dropped into the water. He and Anataka were holding their breaths for nothing. They ed through a transparent barrier reflecting the water around them to conceal a large column of air driving deep into the ocean. “How did you know this was here?” Thestor asked, as he flew the circumference of the round hole in the water.

“Readings were too perfect, and the center of the camouflage waves were going against the wind. Sometimes, instinct works better than technology. My handheld is still useless.” Looking around, he felt as if he was inside an aquarium, all types of fish stared through the distorted water at the spectacle flying by. He couldn’t help but notice the hundreds of miniature Atlantean force field generators as they flew by them. “Take us down.” “You know this makes me nervous, right?” “I’m getting a little anxious, myself, but we have to know.” He dropped a wing, and down into the dark hole they went. John saw a light down below just as Thestor mentioned it. They glided in a circular pattern of the hole, until the light covered the whole bottom of the sea floor. “I see lots of Cousins digging out the power point.” “I see,” John said. “The reason the power points were buried was to help conceal their locations. When activated, they would power themselves to the surface. I wonder-” Weapons fire came from below, the Dragon dodged, almost losing his engers. He was able to slip away from the brunt of the attack, but the trap had been sprung. Taking several hits before he could gain altitude, Thestor began to lose consciousness. John yelled for him to wake up, but it was only momentary. With his head down and his wings spread, John concentrated on helping him glide. The Dragon was almost too much for him. Thestor hit the sea floor hard, as John raised Thestor’s head before impact. They swept away Cousin, equipment, and mud, as he hit the ground and slid to a halt. John and Anataka flew off his back, he grabbed her and soft landed next to Thestor’s head. People were scrambling about in a panic, while a half dozen of Maya’s vampire mutants surrounded them. Although, the weapons were outdated, John knew he couldn’t take on all four, they had barely subdued two of them with a group, and the price was high. He moved Anataka further behind him. He wasn’t sure, but this might be AztekAlon’s gang.

A particularly angry looking one pointed his weapon, and said, “Move, your presence has been requested.” “By whom?” He fired at the soggy ground. “Move! That away.” John relented to fight another day. He looked back at Thestor; his shallow breathing let him know he was still alive. They walked toward the seven stories of pyramid that stuck out of the sea floor. The humans worked tirelessly to clear the sand and rock. They would gather it up in baskets and dump it through the force field, creating a dune on the other side. The two intruders were led to a trench that slopped down to the base of the pyramid power point. John knew the lay out well, a few more levels down, and to the right, and then left. He noticed the traps had been disabled as they went. Soon, they were ushered into the anti-chamber next to the main agoam reactor chamber without incident. On the way, John had been studying his captors. These were Atlantean vampires, difficult to kill on the best of occasions. He wasn’t sure if this group might’ve broken away from Aztek-Alon, or was an advanced guard. They dressed in Atlantean garb and were well disciplined. They didn’t speak, which made John all the more cautious. Off to the far side of the room, John could see Atlantean equipment near the doorway next to the reactor chamber. The doorway had no door, but was curtained by a clear shimmering force field. The equipment lights blinked, while others hummed. Human built wooden chairs and tables held the instruments, while several more Atlantean vampires worked vigorously, only stopping momentarily to sniff the air. They all just stood there quietly. John moved Anataka behind him more as the guard’s eyed her like a full course meal. He deduced that they were trying to get control of the power point. The upgraded shielding from their last experience with Alon was paying off, and they were unable to get control of this one. He waited, as if he weren’t in any hurry. “Who are they?” Anataka quietly asked. “Abominations to the Atlantean culture.”

One snarled, and advanced on John. He felt a shadow of despair and doom wash over his mind, a shadow of something ominous. He fought it back, and it soon disappeared. “Now John, don’t be a rude guest,” Aztek-Alon said, walking into the room. His features were appalling. His hair, all but gone, eyes baggy, and severely blood shot. He had not aged well. John didn’t even flinch at the sight of him, but Anataka gasped, and moved further behind him. “Guests, looks more like prisoners. It appears you’re having trouble accessing the power point.” “A minor technicality.” Alon moved gracefully across the room as a minion pulled out a chair for him. “As you can tell, time, is a worse enemy than you. The nanites don’t work with our physiology. Through some minor interrogation, we have discovered how you stay so young, although, your hideout location is still a mystery. It will only be a matter of time. You’ve developed a temporal matrix machine. I want one, and I need agoam crystals to build it.” “Why don’t you use the key to access the reactor? Wait, you don’t have it anymore. Haa,” John laughed, as he slowly moved to a more strategic location. Alon stood up, angry, but got himself under control. “I must say, I hid it so well, even I can’t get it, without help.” “So, how many of the thirteen skulls do you have?” Alon looked surprised. “How did you find out?” “I have my sources, too.” “Ah, Maya, that traitorous bitch finally resurfaced. Trust her at your own risk. Now, if you’ll be so kind as to lower the force field.” “And if I don’t, you’ll torture me, right?” “No, I will torture, her.” His gaze shifted to Anataka. One of his guards moved fast to grab her. She squealed. John was grabbed, also. The guard dragged her over to Alon as John struggled. “John, your affinity for

these creatures keeps clouding your judgment. He looked at Anataka, and then put his cold hand on her face, staring into her eyes. A look of terror crossed her face. John knew Alon and his followers had sacrificed some of their mental abilities for physical ones. He could defeat a few of them, but Anataka was completely defenseless. “Wait!” Alon relaxed, smiling in triumph. Anataka staggered, as he led her to a chair and set her down. “You are so weak. Now, open the door!” John pulled away from his captors, and approached Anataka. He soothed her for few seconds, and then said, “I’ll need to use your equipment. Without the key I’ll have to by the frequency. I am going to need her help.” “Why?” “Because I trust her, and not you. Anataka, bring the chair, and come with me.” She did so skittishly. They sat down in front of the old machinery, and John got to work. He manipulated the controls as if accomplishing something. Anataka went into a trance, touching switches when told. John spoke directly to her mind. “Listen to me, when I tell you to run, you get to the door and go find Thestor, understand.” “Understood,” was relayed back to him. She came out of the trance and shook her head. He continued to look busy as he mentally called to Thestor. He searched, there, he concentrated on Thestor’s life force. Focused in on it, and found him. “Thestor, can you move?” John could feel his presents. “No, but I am feeling the effects wear off.” “I need you to pretend to be unconscious.” “That shouldn’t be hard.” “We’re going to need a fast escape, be ready.” John slipped out of the connection to hear Alon.

“John, what’s taking so long?” “Your equipment here is worn out and out dated. This could take a little while. Don’t you have someone else to torture.” Alon hissed, and then moved to one of his lieutenants and whispered, no doubt telling him to keep a close eye out for tricks. John worked a little bit, then with his back to Alon, asked, “Alon, why are you doing this, the real reason.” Jay could sense John trying to get in Alon’s head. “I need more time to find a cure for mortality. We had it once, I want it again. I have so much to accomplish. There’s so much to do, and then I can rule forever.” “You are as insane as ever. What about the Destroyers?” “Destroyers, they’re long gone. They have no need for us now that Atlantis is gone. It has probably been destroyed, and the Destroyers have moved on to something else.” “Great, naive and insane.”

Jay involuntarily shivered at the dampness, and sight of the monsters. He watched intently through John’s eyes. Alon paced and cursed before he marched over to John, glanced over at the screen and saw gibberish. “John, what is this?” Clearing the screen, he turned to Alon. “You should know, without a direct link with the key, I can do nothing.” “So, all this time you’ve been...stalling. You called for help before you arrived...”

What felt like switching to another channel without warning, Jay quickly focused on another location, the flight deck of a shuttle. “Drof, can you get a lock on John?” Rhe-A asked, looking over his shoulder.

Drof increased speed as he skimmed the top of a calm ocean. “Not exactly, just a bearing on his last location.” “Keep scanning for any anomalies, where there’s John, there’s an anomaly.” “There’s nothing out of the ordinary in the area,” Drof said. “Anything peculiar, should be there, shouldn’t be there, a glitch of any sort.” “No, nothing-wait-I’m not sure.” “What, speak up.” “This whole area is where Atlantis used to sit. There was only one power point in the area. I’m picking it up on sensors.” “So, what’s the problem?” “I’m not supposed to be picking it up on the sensors.” “Drof, get us there, best speed.”

Jay relaxed a little, knowing the cavalry was on its way, then he tensed again as John stood up and punched Alon in the face as hard as he could. The unexpected impact sent him back-pedaling, until he landed on his butt. With a quick swing, he broke the chair over the table into shards. He was immediately attacked by a guard. He brought up the wooden chair leg and shoved it into his heart with all his strength. The force sent it back into the second guard. Anataka raised a foot, before the vampire woman could get up, and kicked her backwards, while still in the chair. The third guard raised his pistol, but John was faster with the other chair leg and launched it into the mutant’s chest. “Run!”

Chapter Twelve: Puppet Anataka raced for the door, while the woman vampire jumped on John’s back and bit down on his neck. He grabbed her by what little hair she had, and tried to pull her off as he reached for another chair leg, but only retrieved a short piece. The one guard who was knocked down by his comrade, scrabbled to his feet, becoming confused on who to attack first. Anataka almost made it to the door, when Alon sat up, and with his limited telekinetic power, brushed her aside, head first into the nearest wall. “No!” John’s emotions let loose, and he moved his head to the side and rammed the stick in his assailants eye socket, until part of it protruded out of the back of her head. John was halfway to Anataka by the time she crumpled to the floor. The guard and Alon moved to intercept a single-minded John as he swept them aside. The guard spattered against the wall, but Alon was able to counter some of the impact with his abilities, but the impact still left him unconscious. Scooping Anataka up in his arms as he knelt down, John held her softly as blood ran through his fingers. He knew the cerebral hemorrhaging and internal damage was way too much for her frail human body to handle, if he didn’t get her to a medical facility immediately-she gasped as he tried to move her, she was broken inside. He was holding her as still as possible when her eyes opened. He thought they had a more blue tent than usual. She looked confused, then focused on him. “John, what’s going on?” she asked in Athene-A’s voice. He fought back tears. “I’ll explain it to you later.” “Why am I in so much pain, why can’t I move?” “I’m going to help you, lie still.” “John...I’m scared.” “It’s going to be alright, don’t be scared. I’m here with you.”

She briefly smiled in understanding, and then lurched, gasping for air as she coughed up blood. Her body went rigid, and her eyes fixed on John. He couldn’t the last time he was this angry, sad, and almost every other emotion he had sought to repress over the millennia. He wanted to yell at the Great Creator, but Alon had regained his senses and stood halfway across the room with a pistol aimed at his face, this only made him angrier. “John, I really thought we could work together this time,” he said, in a condescending voice. “You really are pathetic. How you’ve made it this far can only prove there is a Great Creator. But, alas, it is time to end this little rivalry.” John couldn’t speak through the fury. He quickly raised his hand to direct his mental power all on Alon. His feet left the floor, causing his shot to go wild. He crashed into the wall and slid down to his knees. John saw one of the guards pistols, and wished it into his hand. He adjusted his aim as he moved closer to Alon. All he had to do was blast him and it would be over, but the more he tried to pull the trigger, the harder it became. Even after everything, his ivism peaked through. He couldn’t murder. Alon shook off the impact, again, and focused on his long-time rival standing in front of him. On the floor in front of him, was his own pistol. He looked at it, and then at John, doubt slipped in. John knelt down, putting his own pistol on the floor, always staring into bloodshot eyes. “You’re right about one thing, this has to end. Surrender to the Councils authority, or take your chances with me.”

“What?” Jay said, as the sound echoed in his head. “Go back,” he said to ghosts. “It should be right there,” Drof said to an unbelieving Rhe-A. “I only see water.” “It doesn’t as water.” She weighed her options quickly, and said, “Set us down on it.”

The shuttle sank down below the water level. “It’s a hologram, destroy that emitter.” “If I do, I might collapse the force field and flood the tunnel, but it s as Atlantean, obsolete, but Atlantean. I might be able to override it, and disable the interference from the units.” Pandor-A was maneuvering programs with her hands, and mind. It only took a few minutes until the water hologram faded away, leaving a big black hole in the ocean. “There, I’m picking up numerous life forms digging out power point eighteen. We need to get closer.” “Drof, take us in.” The shuttle spiraled downward.

Jay knew the cavalry was on the way, so he was relieved when the scene went back. Even though he was trying to convince himself that this had already happened. He still had to know. Alon lost his confidence, and his arrogance, as he stared into John’s hate filled blue eyes. He realized he could not talk his way out of this one, and he was not going to spend an eternity buried underground in a stasis pod. He had never been a warrior, but he was going to try. He flicked the weapon into his hand. The shot grazed John’s temple, he felt strange, he couldn’t move his hand, he couldn’t move at all. He couldn’t stop himself from falling over. Odd, he thought, how come he can see his headless body. John just stared at the blood shot eyes that stared back at him. He’d forgotten that very few things killed these monsters. He stood up and reached for a chair leg protruding out of one of the guards. He was standing over Alon’s body when the lighting began to dim. A feeling of dread and despair came over him, again. Someone, or something was in the room with him. He could...feel it. Scanning the room, with his keen eyesight, he saw nothing. Wait. There, more of a feeling combined with all his other senses. He raised his pistol at where he thought the cloaked figure might be. “Show yourself.”

There was a slight brush of wind as John tensed. A shimmer of fog began to coalesce. It twisted from the floor, and moved upward. A ghostly figure began to form in the chaos. Skinny bipedal legs formed with a skinny torso, and long thin arms with only three fingers and a thumb. The figure appeared gray in color, as the bulbous head formed. it’s black teardrop eyes reminded him of Atlantis. The creature never fully formed, but stayed in its foggy cocoon. It didn’t seem to have a nose, just slits, and a small mouth. It stared right at John, who moved forward a little with a stick, and a pistol. “Who are you?” The creature stepped forward, or more like floated toward John. The heat like ripples in the air blurred his features. It studied John. “Who are you?” John said, this time with more confidence. The gray being pointed at him. His head began to pound as if someone was forcing an intrusion into his thoughts. A more powerful push than he had ever experienced filled his head. Fighting back with all his capabilities, he swung the stick through the apparition. It went through the figure as if it were a hologram. Its hold weakened, and John pushed it out of his mind. Shaking his head, he said, “Who are you? What do you want?” He was concentrating so hard on the creature; he didn’t hear the slurping noises of veins and tendons forcing Alon’s head back to his body. “Who are you?” the hollow voice said back to him, in what sounded like his own voice. He studied the ghost, while one of the vampire survivors leaped up, and ran to attack John. In an instant, another gray, bulbous, bald, gray creature swirled into visibility, and from John’s point of view, stepped into the attacker. He halted, as John watched the terror in guards eyes. He looked as if he had stared into the abyss of despair. He struggled with himself, and stumbled about. He clawed at his head as if trying to dig out his own brain. He then screamed, and ran head first into a wall. Blood dotted the impact area, there was no relief as he rolled around. “Stop it!” John looked back and forth at the vampire, and then the ethereal creature. The guard focused on John’s voice, and for a few moments, was able to think. He pulled the chair leg out of his comrade and with blinding speed ran at the wall with the stick held to his chest. The collision was fatal as he sank to his

knees, relief came over his face, while his life blood oozed out of all open orifices. After a moment, he fell to his side. A ghostly gray creature rose up out of him, and floated toward the one that had stayed visible, and said, “The experiment was a failure. The adaptations are bearable, the brain could not handle the insertion. Information overload.” “My experiment was a failure, also. This adaptation appears to have more control than anticipated.”

A sick feeling settled in Jay’s stomach, as he turned to see Pandor-A speaking, “We must hurry,” she said in her alien voice. All took notice, as disconcerting as it was, they had never been lead astray before. “Get us down there, Drof,” Rhe-A commanded. Jay flashed quickly to the outside of the power point, where Thestor, and he, could sense John’s pain. Thestor was tired of waiting, and thought it a good time to act. He raised up and slapped the two Atlantean vampire guards so hard they flew through the air. One collided with the force field, only to slid through. He was immediately crushed by the pressure into small pieces. The other splattered against a control conduit. A spark shot out, followed by its operational lights flickering and winking out. Water began seeping in, slow at first, then more.

“Who are you!” Jay heard, seeing a hand sweeping forward. John only caused a ripple in the creature’s features. Alon jumped up and came at John, who, grabbed Alon’s arm and stepped into a twisting motion, lifting him off the floor, and then flipping him on his back. John willed the stick back into his hand. Alon’s eyes widened as the stick came down into his chest. “Interesting,” the male translated voice of the gray bipedal ghost said, as it floated forward.

John backed away as it melted into Alon’s body. It twitched, then raised into a sitting position. John stumbled backward at the horror. The Alon creature looked around as if looking through eyes for the first time. It looked down at the stick, and slowly pulled it out. It dropped it on the floor, as if experimenting with gravity. It then examined the hand that held it. Floating to a standing position, he turned to the other gray foggy beings. “Subject must be inoperative. The brain deteriorates quickly in this adaptation. Memory erased to make room for mine. Experiment a success.” The possessed Alon body moved to the female technician that John had stabbed in the eye. She stirred, then pulled the stick out, while trying to stand. The Alon puppet took the wood shard and stabbed her in the heart. The feminine voiced, gray figure slid across the floor and possessed her. She pushed away from the pseudo-Alon, and gracefully looked at her hands, which began to shake, she wobbled, and then caught herself. She shook and stutter-stepped around. “Subject must be newly inoperative to have maximum results. Experiment conclusive.” “What the hell are you?” John blurted out. The Alon possessed body turned to John as if noticing him for the first time. Its features began to soften into the Aztek-Alon, John knew on Atlantis. “This human adaptation is commanding attention. How amusing. Using verbal communication is inefficient, but necessary when dealing with these lower life forms,” it said to its wobbly companion, while not taking its hollow eyes off of John. “Perhaps,” said the companion, “if this adaptation is inoperative, it will make a suitable host.”

Jay, by now, was wanting out of this nightmare. He had had enough, and was having trouble convincing himself it was ed, but the scene kept going. “Thestor, what kind of trouble has John gotten you into now?” Rhe-A said, as her team stunned the enemy Minotaur’s and Centaurs in the distance behind her. “You know, the usual. John’s in the power point, with Aztek-Alon, hurry.” Rhe-A ran for the entrance, watching Apollo and Xen herded frightened Cousins

to the shuttle. The water was now entering faster, letting the strain begin to overload the grid. Pandor-A was blocking the entrance when Rhe-A arrived. In that eerie voice she said, “Evacuate the area, I will retrieve John.” She chose to believe the Inquisitors, and watched the automaton run into the power point tunnel.

John started to back up toward the door, his pistol ready. The female former vampire’s coordination and complexion improved. He sensed someone behind him and glanced back to see Pandor-A standing in the doorway. Her blue eyes were throbbing from bright to dim as she moved alongside him. “So, after all these eons, you finally show yourself, hiding in a primitive state.” “You state the obvious,” Pandor-A said in her Inquisitor voice. The creature made Alon’s facial features look angry. Pandor-A looked at John and said, “We cannot win here.” “You cannot win anywhere; we have assured our dominance.” Pandor-A reached down her top and pulled out a necklace, John had literally never seen before. “You must go now, Captain.” “Captain?” The Alon figure said, stepping forward. “You have made this experiment easy for us.” “I can’t leave you, Pan.” Her own voice broke through, “Yes, John, leave. I’ll be right behind you.” She went back into her trance, and then she raised her arms out to her side. John slowly backed over to Anataka’s body, and scooped her up gently. He then moved quickly to the doorway, noticing water running down the steps. Pandor-A’s eyes glowed bright white, as she swung her hands together in a loud clap, that action focused the agoam crystal in her necklace. The brilliant flash

disturbed the Destroyers’ transphasic cocoon. They wobbled and fell. Pandor-A glanced back at John. “Go!” John took off up the steps and waited at the first landing. He was about to go back for her when she came out running up the stairs. He led the way out. At the pyramid opening, Rhe-A saw them coming, she had lots of questions as she fell into a jog alongside. John commanded, “We have to evacuate, now, I’ll explain later.” “We’ve got all the Cousins, and friendly Centaurs on board, it’s very crowed. The Minotaur overlords, and a few of Alon’s minions are defending Alon’s shuttle. The force field could collapse at any moment. We need to leave, now.” “Take Pan, and get out of here.” “But-” “Thestor will get us out.” John took off toward the Dragon, as the others raced for the shuttle. “Captain, we don’t need the extra...weight,” Thestor said, looking at the bloody woman John carried. “I’m not leaving her to be experimented on.” He leaped into the air and landed on Thestor’s back. “Time to leave.” Thestor slogged through the mud and rising water. He quickly rose into the air flapping his wings as vigorously as possible. John watched the shuttle fly overhead as he held on tight to Anataka, and the harness. He concentrated his telekinesis on the Dragon to help give him lift. The force field generators began to overload and explode, one at a time, letting billions of cubic feet of water in. Swirling water rose to catch its prey. Generators popped and sparked faster than Thestor could rise. Water began pouring in from all directions just below them. John could hear him grunt with every thrust of his wings, spiraling up to get more momentum. The watery mist sprayed them as he spied the shuttle rise

above sea level. With all his strength, and John’s concentration, the Dragon rose into a blue sky. A funnel of water reached out for one last grasp, and then it melted back into the ocean from which it came. “Thank you, Thestor,” John said. Thestor only looked back and nodded. “Take us back to the coast where we started.” He again nodded in acknowledgement. “Rhe-A, follow us.” “Understood,” she responded through the comm.

Mentally wiping away imaginary sweat, Jay was ready for this session to be over. “Take these people and resettle them a little further inland where it’s safer,” John explained, as the cool breeze of the ocean ruffled his unruly long hair. “Give them supplies to last as long as possible.” He looked at the dazed and confused bunch. They stumbled around the beach, trying to figure out what to do with their new freedom. “I will return to Chrysalis to give my report as soon as I’ve taken care of Anataka.” Rhe-A put her hand on John’s forearm. “John, I’m sorry,” she sadly said, looking at Thestor, while he stood nearby cradling Anataka in one clawed hand. “It’s alright. It wasn’t your fault. It was mine. I’ll return as soon as I can.” They all stood around, and watched him fly away.

Jay enjoyed the non-existent cool breeze, letting the silence of flying calm him. The startled tribes folk made a space for the Dragon to land. John climbed down with Anataka. Their children and grandchildren ran to them. He laid her down at their feet. “She gave her life trying to save mine, and all of our lives. We should honor her.” The family began to wail, as the other tribes people approached. “Don’t be sad. She loved all of you, and you will see her again.” This consoled many of

them, fore she had been the mid-wife to most of them she hadn’t given birth to. They loved her. “Prepare her earthly body.” The women moved in, and gently moved her to a lean-to, where they went to work on her for her trip to the afterlife. John turned to Thestor. “I’m really not in a hurry to get back to Chrysalis. When was the last time you saw the other side of the world?” “It has been many thousands of years.” “Would you like to know Chrysalis’ location? If you take me, I’ll show you.” “Do you have food? Gold?” “Of course, we still maintain all the technology to manufacture almost all the elements.” “Then, yes, but I must talk to Despin-A, she may want to come along.” “That would be good, and thank you my friend.” “We’ll be back before the honoring.” He turned and bounded away with a few flaps of his wings, was out of sight.

John stood by the funeral pyre. Anataka had been bathed, her hair combed, and she was dressed in her favorite green turquoise, emerald stone dress. John thought she looked at peace. The family and friends began to gather as the sun slipped silently below the horizon. Chanting and beating sticks together were the only noises, while sunlight faded into darkness. A procession of tribes people laid flowers, weapons, and hand created ornaments on the mound of wood. John’s family gathered around him. “You are leaving us, too. Aren’t you?” his oldest son said, as he hugged them. “Yes, I must return to fight the evil of this world. I don’t want any of you hurt because of me. But I will always be a part of you. Be kind and forgiving, be wise

in your decisions as Chief, and you’ll be fine. I am proud of all of you, and I love you. I will always you.” His words consoled them, since they understood that a God had other responsibilities, other than physically watching over them constantly. They understood, and fondly said their goodbyes. The light breeze and soft impact tremors let John know that Thestor and DespinA had arrived. John stood at the feet of Anataka, he stepped back between the two Dragons, while the tribes people backed away. “Thestor, if you would do the honor.” Thestor leaned over the top of him and spit a fire line at the base of the wood pile. It ignited in a brilliant orange and blue flame that lit up the night sky. John watched for a little while as the flames grew. He slipped his hand over his handheld, making a 3-D image of Anataka appeared in the flames, her hair rustled in a make-believe wind. She floated out toward them, smiled and held up a hand. The image rose high into the sky, and streaked up into space, appearing to stop as a star. John looked over at Thestor. “It’s time to go.” “Understood.” “Oh, we have to make a stop, I’ll explain on the way.” John turned back to his family and friends, and determined that leaving them might be the hardest thing he’s ever done. But he had other friends and family, and with their help, maybe save everyone from what was coming.

The flash view from Jay’s point of view was abrupt and bird’s eye. Embers popped and sizzled when a log was thrown on the ever-growing fire. The vampires played strategy games and socialized. Others experimented, and invented things from their natural surroundings. The flames suddenly burst higher, caused by the rush of air that suddenly grew with the flapping of wings. They all stood holding arms up to fend off the

sparking embers. A Dragon dropped in their midst, and snarled at all of them. They backed away slowly, and then went for their spears. Thestor growled at the defiant little ones. He stomped closer, putting his neck over the fire, and with green crushing eyes, stared. Several started to attack, but one vampire stood out, his demeanor was very controlled. “Cease!” They slowly complied. He stepped up and advanced toward Thestor. “What do you want, Dragon? Our mother has tried to explain who you are, but we find it difficult to understand.” He bravely moved closer to the monster, and slowly held up his hand to touch the creature that leaned down to stare at this brave little soul. He reached up and touched the Dragon. “I do feel a connection to you, I understand you are part of us, a brother, perhaps?” Thestor stared down at him, and gritted a laugh. “Very good, children. There may be hope for you, yet. But you are more of a child than a brother.” “Thestor-Hermes, what is the meaning of this,” Maya said, from the cave entrance. “We have a non-aggression pact in place.” Thestor’s humor was immediately lost. “I wanted to come here and see you, so I could kill you.” The group, and Maya, tensed. “But, alas, the Captain says, there may be hope for you, also.” She felt him before she saw him. “John?” “Yes, maybe some hope after all,” John said, as he shimmered into existence. “John, this is a bad joke, what’s the meaning of this breach of agreement.” “It was meant to be a test.” John walked over to the vampire that stayed in control. “And your children ed.”

Jay felt as if he were sitting on a rock, entranced by the Dragons. Thestor had spent most of the evening telling the children stories. They held onto every word. Despin-A would correct him at certain points, an argument would ensue with Thestor relenting. The couples actions didn’t seem to detour the group from their interest. The interaction became more of a bonding, as the parents acted

like they had just acquired more children. John could’ve sworn they were enjoying themselves. They told of honor, bravery, perseverance, and all the influentially positive things they could think of, while John conversed with Maya over her impending tribunal. At one point during their three day stay, Maya retrieved some old Atlantean tech that she had kept hidden, John gave her a wry look, but she just shrugged her shoulders. He handed it to Thestor to put in a carry pouch they had quickly put together, but he had different plans. He, and Despin-A, took the worthless equipment and showed their artistic Atlantean side and molded, though intense fire and pressure from jaws and claws, to press together a medallion for each of the twenty-one infatuated followers.

Thestor handed the vampire that stood up to him a finely detailed amulet on a necklace, and said, “Little one, we are of one, I proclaim your name to be Dracul, son of Dragon. Lead your people well.” Maya handed Dracul thin bark scrolls of rules of civilized conduct. They were to abide by them. She said her goodbyes, as they cried. Maya felt true emotion for the first time in eons. She turned and went to Thestor and climbed aboard. She sat behind John and put her arms around his waist. “One last time, you know I have no guarantees on how the Council will react.” “I know, I just need a chance.” “You’re going to need more than that,” Despin-A said, and then, they bound down the hillside, with Thestor close behind, and were airborne in seconds.

The breeze was warm after the long high-altitude flight over the ocean. Maya wasn’t snuggled so close to John now that the sun was going down. Her face was gray and ashy from the ultraviolet rays, but her recovery was quick. Her hair fluttered in the wind; her pale face had a smile from the freedom she felt. Thestor and Despin-A descended, and soft landed in an unoccupied valley. Maya

and John hopped down and let Thestor curl up and rest. Despin-A wandered into the forest for something to eat. “Their stamina is amazing, two solid days of flying,” John said looking back at him. Maya put her arms around his neck and gazed at him. Her eyes were mostly normal since John let her feed on him the day before. “I someone else having a lot of stamina.” She moved closer for a kiss. John gently unwrapped her arms, and stood back. “Maya, I don’t want a relationship that might taint my testimony.” She knew immediately that she wasn’t going to get anywhere. “Oh, alright,” she chided, and started walking into the woods. “Where are you going?” “To get something to eat.” “Be careful.” “I’m a vampire, I’m the one, things have to be careful from,” she said, as her voice faded in the distance. John had some food cooking over an open fire when Maya came back and sat down. He looked up at her, making a motion with his hand across his face. “You have a little something on your chin.” Maya wiped away blood from her latest kill. John knew it wasn’t human, there weren’t any in the surrounding area. “Why don’t you put up the portable?” she asked, after she seductively licked the blood from her finger.” John just shook his head. “Because, Thestor says they only need a couple more hours of rest.” They sat quietly for a few minutes as John stoked the fire. “Maya, is there anything you can about the key, or the tracker skulls?” “All I know is what I told you, but I think Alon promised immortality to the ones chosen to keep the tracker skulls hidden. I would venture to guess they are vampire Cousins by now. Why don’t you spend your time tracking down Alon,

and torture it out of him?” “I can’t, he’s dead.” “What?” She smiled, then quickly wiped it away. “That will add a whole new degree of difficulty in finding the key. What happened?” “We met, we fought. It’ll all be in my report. The trouble is, something even more evil took his place. So, finding the key is now an even higher priority. He laid back on the grass and stared up at the stars. “Get some rest, we have another days flight ahead.”

The area was hardly recognizable to Jay as it ed under him-or them. “I recognize this area, it’s where Athene-A had her base of operations. Where most of you stayed for years after Atlantis left.” John turned around and straddled Thestor’s backbone, facing Maya, he said, “That’s why I have to keep Chrysalis secret. This injection,” he said, holding up the injector, “will only knock you out for a short time, please take it, or I will have to drop you off here.” She hesitated, and then snatched it out of his hand and injected her neck. “There, how long until it takes effe-” Her eyes rolled back in her head, and she slumped over into his arms. “Thestor, over the next mountain range, land at the foot of the tallest mountain.” “Understood, Captain.”

John, and the Dragons, walked partially up the mountainside to a large natural looking ledge. He shifted Maya to his other shoulder, and then waved his hand over an inconspicuous jutting rock. The hangar doors split apart and swung open to reveal a cavernous tunnel. Jay’s eyes quickly adjusted to the dimness. He could sense the Dragon’s apprehension of a trap, as the doors closed behind them, leaving not a trace of their existence. Loud clicking noises echoed down

the tunnel after every claw touched the shinny floor. They ed by the shuttles, getting startled gazes from maintenance workers and researchers. Stepping into an even bigger cave, Despin-A lifted her head and sniffed. “Do you know what that smell is, Thestor?” “Machinery?” “No, civilization.” She smiled. The group was met by Rhe-A, Apollo, and Pandor-A, as the new arrivals moved further into the room. “Well,” Rhe-A sarcastically said, “you finally killed her.” “Not, yet,” he snorted. “You Thestor-Hermes, and his wife Despin-A. They have accepted our invitation to stay with us. How are the accommodations coming along?” “Their quarters should be complete tomorrow. Now, about TSD entrance, we’re still working on the enlargement. Shouldn’t be long.” She looked up at the two giants and said, “Welcome to Chrysalis. It’s not as big as Atlantis, but its secure. Make yourselves at home. The food court is down that hallway, and to your right. Ask anyone if you need assistance.” “Food, yes,” was all Thestor said. “We will. Thank you. Before, Thestor shows anymore of his ill manners.” She nudged him in the direction previously instructed. She could be heard telling him, “You are highly educated, try to show a little of it sometime.” “Yes, Dear,” he responded, as they clattered away. “Rhe-A, is there a place I can put Maya, she’s getting heavy.” “Yes, down one of the magma thermal energy shafts would be fine.” “Rhe-A, tolerance, forgiveness.” “Right,” she continued her sarcasm, while waving over a couple of assistance, who took Maya from John, and strolled away.

“She’ll be in my lab, under quarantine.” John started to protest, but acquiesced. “Where’s Athene-A?” An object made a loud noise in the distance, and a short scream. People moved down the hallway, trying not to look panicked. “Food court, I imagine.” John and his group moved in that direction. When they got there, they saw Athene-A picking up her dishes as both the Dragons, and her, were apologizing to each other. John stopped to ire her for a few seconds. “Is she alright?” “Yes,” Rhe-A said, crossing her arms and watching the spectacle, “all my scans indicate no adverse affects from her Extra-Temporal-Matrix excursion, other than the usual shock of traveling back and forth.” “Set up a Council meeting for the eighteenth hour. We have a lot to discuss. I’ll be in my quarters finishing my report.” “And getting a shower, I hope.” Rhe-A smiled, and then went to help Athene-A. John re-familiarized himself with the new changes around the facility and greeted people he hadn’t seen in decades. The hideout had been enlarged in many areas. Power grids updated to be more efficient. He finally made his way to his quarters. The musty smell of vacancy hung in the recycled air. He called everything to life, and stood there looking around, ing. Jay saw himself in the mirror. John went out to relieve himself of responsibility, but wound up gaining more. He took a deep breath and excepted his fate. Atlantis, I hope you’re alright, he thought. Before he stepped into the shower room, he placed a polished turquoise stone on a shelf, and then moved on with his life.

Time flashed again for Jay. John entered the Council chambers refreshed, hair

cut, shaved, and clean. Sporting a blue jumpsuit and a handheld. He greeted the Council as he strolled around the round table. Standing in front of his chair, he noticed someone was missing. “Where’s Xen?” “The TSD would not release him. His second should be here momentarily.” The door slid open, and Nate walked in staring down at a handheld. Looking up, he found himself at the center of attention. “Uh, sorry I’m late. Last minute notification.” “It’s alright, Nate,” John said, noticing the man’s age was closer to the point when John first saw him on Atlantis. “I was just about to begin.” He set his handheld on the large table, and it immediately transferred information to each person’s individual holographic template built in the console. They all scrolled through the information quickly, part text, part video moving rapidly around the ghostly areas before them. More often than not, most stopped to reexamine a particular incident, or to talk about it to someone nearby. John sat back and watched expressions and gestures, especially Athene-A, she had a perplexed look on her face, one of almost recognition, but fleeting. Rhe-A was the first to speak up. “So, it was the Destroyers you saw in the power point.” “Yes, as Pandor-A’s friends can attest.” “We’ve lost with power point eighteen,” Delphi-Apollo said. “Quarantine the area and observe, maybe we can find out exactly what they’re up to. At least, until we can develop some sort of weapon to use against them. Pan, can you get your friends to elaborate on how we can devise something physical to use against them?” Pandor-A spoke in her own voice, “I think I understand now the founding principles of our long time enemy.” Everyone leaned in closer. “They were once much like we are, advancing technically faster than maturity, the kind that imposes restraint, and studying an issue before acting on it. The Destroyers lost themselves in science, expanding their knowledge to almost insanity. Once they felt they could control the Andromeda Galaxy, the universe would only be a matter of time, so they turned their attention to the multi-verse, other

dimensions. The making of several mistakes, they trapped themselves between dimensions. They seek help to get back, or forward.” “Strange way, even by extreme standards, of asking for help. Why don’t they just ask?” “Because they have developed into ego maniacs, thinking themselves as the Great Creator. If they itted to being fallible, then they would not be God. So, if you cannot be of assistance to them, then that species will be against them, in time. Thus, they destroy any who can’t, or won’t help.” “Still doesn’t make much sense. It appears they have found a use for us. They need of a physical presents in this universe to maintain a stable existence. Much like our Inquisitor friends have done to Pan. But it seems as though they need an Atlantean body that has recently died. I’m sorry to say, but the image of AztekAlon was disconcerting and may come back to haunt us.” John looked over at Athene-A, who appeared none the wiser for her experience. “But still, a dimensional phase destabilizing field will help us, perhaps buy some time.” “A mobile phase destabilizer can be made by using agoam crystals. The radiation seems to separate the universes, like a catalyst activating chemical compounds. They say it can be done, but its use will be limited.” “Something is better than nothing, get started.” “Might I add,” Pandor-A said, still in her own voice, “that in their transitory state, the Destroyers cannot affect any of the universes physically, but possessing a person in this universe acts as an anchor to ground them here in time and space. Conventional weapons will work in this instance.” “So, we can kill them as long as they are possessing a body?” “Too many variables to determine whether they actually die, or return to their phasic state. Insufficient data at this time,” came the Inquisitor’s voice. “Why do I get the feeling you’re holding something back.” Pandor-A just sat there with a blank expression on her face. “Alright, let’s train our sensors on power point eighteen, maybe we get more intelligence on the Destroyers. We can only surmise that the mother ship is chasing Atlantis, or laying in wait for an ambush. The group I met must be a contingent left behind to observe, or

experiment, either way, they’re dangerous. We are going to have to be more vigilant.” “Are we going to invite all of Maya’s creatures to us?” Rhe-A mockingly said. “Only the ones willing to abide by Atlantean standards. Now, I have briefed you on Maya-A-Toltek. We know what she’s done, much under duress, my report goes back several decades. I believe she is trustworthy and advocate on her behalf to be reinstated, with some restrictions. Before we vote, I would like you to hear her statement.” The Council chamber door opened to let Maya in. She looked clean with her hair pushed back and a customary jumpsuit on. The two guards stayed at the door as it closed, watching her carefully as she moved before the . The round table split into pie slices, moving back away from each other. Maya approached the center as the table stopped with the sharp ends pointing straight at her. She looked around the room, making eye with each member. Putting her hands together in front of her, she began, “Honored of the Chrysalis Council, I come before you, humbled and beaten. What I did, I did out of love for my former husband. I see, now, I chose the wrong path and seek all Atlantean’s forgiveness. I can be a contributing member again. All I ask is a second chance. I want to be of use again, and to advance the Atlantean way.” “Any questions, or statements from the Council before we vote?” John asked, looking around the split table. “Just one,” Rhe-A said, standing up and glaring at Maya. John knew an ambush when he saw one. Obviously, this had been previously discussed with the other , except him. “Kneel, and beg for forgiveness from this Council.” Rhe-A knew just where to hit her, John thought, as he tried to keep all emotion from his face. Her pride and arrogance led her actions, it had always been her downfall. Maya’s anger flared; her eyes turned dark red as the blood rage was taking over.

Her teeth gritted and fangs protruded. Then she looked over at the disappointed look on John’s face. He believed in her; he tested her offspring-wait-she thoughthe was testing her for just this very moment. He had been training her to control her pride. At that moment, she felt more emotion for him than she had anyone, or anything, she would not let him down. She unclenched her fists, started to control her breathing. Relaxing, her eyes began to return to normal, her fangs retreated, and she smiled. “Very cleaver Rhe-A, but you always were the smarter one.” Rhe-A was set aback, as Maya kneeled down on the floor, with her arms hanging down and her head bowed in silence. She said, “ of the Council, and to all Atlanteans, I beg your forgiveness.” Rhe-A blew out an exasperated breath, and then called the guards in. “Take her to her chambers to await the outcome.” Jay watched her from the center of the room. He couldn’t help notice the nod John gave her, and the return of a smile as the doors shut. Then, with a flash forward, Jay saw John talking to Maya, Athene-A stood nearby. “You made a convincing argument, I’m proud of you, but the vote was close. The were two-thirds majority in favor of reinstatement, looks like you’re back in.” “Yes!” She wrapped her arms around John’s neck and kissed him. He pulled her away and said, “You’re welcome, but there are some limitations, you’ll be monitored, but no guards, access to critical information will be restricted. A request for access will have to be made by you in person, and most important of all, no eating anybody. Welcome home.” Athene-A looked uneasy, watching the spectacle. Maya noticed. “I read your report, have you told her the details you left out?” “I haven’t had time, yet, but I will. Now enjoy your freedom.” Maya bounced away as if on a cloud. “What did she mean-details?” Athene-A asked, while they strolled down a large

corridor. “Well, let’s get something to drink and I’ll explain the last forty years.”

Jay’s eyes calmly opened to the smooth metal ceiling of the laboratory. His head ached just behind his eye sockets. Rhe-A saw the discomfort and injected him. He gave her a thank you look, and rolled to a sitting position. “That was entertaining, but I’m still baffled as to why I’m seeing all this.” “I, too, am at a loss for an explanation,” John said from his chair. “Did all this really happen, or is it more of our collective imaginations?” “It was so long ago, at times I’m not sure whether it was real, or just a dream.” John quickly recovered from his reverie. “Shall we continue? I’m sure there’s something here for us to discover.” Rhe-A started to protest. John held up a hand. “Trust me, the answers are here, somewhere.” Jay took a drink of something fruity, readjusted the headband, and laid back down. Rhe-A backed off, and initiated the machine again.

Chapter Thirteen: Extinction John stepped out of the TSD and blinked away the spots in his eyes from the excessive light in the cavern. He focused, and then found himself near DelphiApollo. Athene-A stepped out next, along with Rhe-A, and then Pandor-A. Apollo approached John urgently. “Captain, we have a problem.” “How bad?” “Possibly an extinction level event.” “Oh, is that all.” They stepped away from the machine as it spit out more of the Command Crew. Maya stepped out a little shaky. She began touching things to be sure they were real. The disorientation quickly dissolved, and she moved toward John. Xen stepped out and crumpled to one knee. Pandor-A and Rhe-A were helping him up when he saw Maya. His low growl caused the two helpers to look up and see what he was looking at. “Has anybody told him?” Rhe-A asked, and was immediately shoved to the floor. Pandor-A was pushed in the opposite direction, while Xen began to snarl and metamorphisized. “Doesn’t anyone read reports, anymore,” John said, while moving to intercept. Xen was lightning fast. Maya’s fangs came out and her eyes went blood red. A hiss was heard just before impact. They went to the ground biting, punching, and kicking. They rolled several times before separating, and jumping to their feet. Circling each other slowly, they looked for a weak spot. John stepped in between them, a dangerous move, but his voice made them listen. “Xen! Listen,” he said as he held his hands up, “You have to calm down, I can explain.” Xen growled and gnashed his jaws. His blue eyes softened as he circled. The

giant wolf shaped Atlantean paced as if trying to calm itself. Maya walked up behind John, back to her usual self, and said, “Have you considered a muzzle?” Xen lost all control and leaped at Maya, with John in-between. Xen was coming down when John telekinetically held him in mid air. Xen’s mental capabilities were diminished while in this state of being, but he could still growl and slobber. John strained against Xen’s mental push and uncontrollable anger, then he felt great relief. The others in the room began to help him. They lightly chanted a low tone. Xen must have sensed the combination, for he began to relax. Soon, he metamorphisized back to himself. His clothes were shredded as the group slowly lowered him to the ground. John approached the panting, sweaty man, and put his arms around him. Xen slumped a little, and soon regained his composer. “It’s alright Xen, no one was hurt. You’ll be fine.” Xen pulled away, embarrassed. “I’m...I’m sorry, John. I couldn’t control it. Just the sight of her-I’m sorry.” “It’s not your fault. It’s built into your DNA, but you’ve proved you can control it.” “Xen?” Maya meekly said, while approaching, “Please accept my apology for what I did to you. I made mistakes, many mistakes.” She slowly moved up closer. “I’ve humbled myself, I’ve done penance, and I’m working on a cure, for both of us.” She wasn’t using her hypnotic powers, but Xen softened anyway, and was now in full control of himself. She reached up and touched his cheek. Mental images were exchanged, or at least the ones, each would allow. “I’m sorry,” she said, as she broke away. They all anxiously watched the exchange dissolve. John clapped his hands together and said, “Well, is anyone else hungry? I hate dealing with a crisis on an empty stomach, and started moving toward the common area.

The Crew, and most Councilors, sat in the briefing room, listening to DelphiApollo describe what the satellite sensors had picked up. “The satellite scans both inward and outward, as you know. On its outward sweep, it picked up this,” He blinked, and a 3-D graphic appeared in the middle of the room. It showed the moon, and then black space beyond. In seconds, an asteroid appeared small at first, then grew quickly. “This asteroid should not be there, we track all of them, and none should be in striking range for several hundred years. this one is on a collision course with Earth.” Apollo let that sink in. “Can we harvest it, disintegrate it, or simply divert it?” Subriasa asked. Her voice cracked a little with her age. Her gray hair was cut short and pinned back to reveal her pointy ears. The black spots on her body were fading against a white back drop. “We could, Councilor Subriasa, but the point is-it shouldn’t be there at all. By all our calculations, it should be in the asteroid belt. It has artificially changed positions, just slightly, several times, indicating outside interference, watch.” The asteroid blasted through space with a very slow tumble. Its uneven, cratered skin lit up when the sun touched its bright side. As it moved a black dot came into view. Xen froze the image and magnified the spot on the rock, where it became identifiable. “That’s one of our shuttles,” John said. “Yes, one of our very old shuttles.” “Aztek-Alon’s?” “Yes.” “Last we saw of it; it was at the bottom of the ocean. I surmise the Destroyers figured out how to salvage it. They are using us against ourselves.” “Yes, we believe they are going to try to destroy the higher life forms on this planet. Perhaps humans have become a burden. They could prepare the planet for a base, and not have to deal with us. Atlantis would still have to return to investigate, and then-”

“I see, diverting it would keep it as a viable threat, harvesting takes too much time and manpower. It looks like we destroy it. Alright, ladies and gentlemen, let’s get to work, and get our options together. We’ll present our plans tomorrow morning, seventh hour.” John wandered Chrysalis, marveling at the change. It was no longer looking like a cave. A lot of the sections had been turned to metal and strengthened by AN-9. It was starting to look more like a space station than a cave, except there were no windows to the universe. He took the elevator to the Ecological Section. It really wasn’t needed, but it psychologically helped all the species to cope with the confinement.

“We have the makings of a plan,” Drof said, moving around the 3-D projection of the asteroid. “New information tell us the Destroyers have erected a spatial field around it. Something we’ve never seen before. The best of us are working on the problem. We’ll need both shuttles to form an inversion explosion. A shuttle on each side of the asteroid, once the shielding is down. We can then fire concentrated beams at the center. The beams will charge themselves in the center until containment can no longer be tolerated, and then will violently escape.” “We’ll need agoam powered beams,” said Subriasa. “What if we miss our mark for beam collision?” John asked, as he studied the simulation. “Then the shuttles will destroy each other.” John sat back in his chair. “If we had the key, this would be very simple. When should we launch?” “The asteroid is less than a week away, and accelerating. I suggest no later than four days.”

“Two days later, John went to the Science Section. It had been completely

remodeled and he was having trouble finding his way around. “I should read my reports more often,” he wasn’t sure whether he said it out loud, or not. “This way,” Subriasa said from behind him, and walked away. John caught up to her. She moved elegantly for a half horse, making no noise as she did so. He looked down to see an ornate set of footwear that covered her hooves. “Nice shoes,” he complimented. “Thank you,” she stoically said, “the latest in anti-skid.” “The decorations are pretty, also.” He thought he saw a slight smile from the usually unemotional woman. “As you can see,” she said without breaking stride, and pointing to the large simulation overhead, “we have deciphered the field around the asteroid. As it turns out, we have encountered a form of this spatial field before. The Sphere Atlantis encountered. The Great Gift, you call it, had a similar signature to its existence.” “So, there’s a connection between the Sphere and the Destroyers?” “Possible, but it requires more study. The difference is this field is generated by using agoam crystals to magnify the dark matter in this galaxy into a spatial rift. Fortunately, our weapon system is based on agoam crystals. We merely have to find the correct resonance in order to by the field.” “Do we know the resonance?” “No, we’ll have to be very close, and then a modulator will have to be incorporated in order to compensate immediately should the resonance change.” “How soon until we have a working model? We are running out of time.” “Two days.” “The asteroid will be here in three. You’re not giving us much time for error.” “We’ll do our best.”

“I know, you always do,” John said, and then walked away to leave them to their project.

Drof was putting the final touches on his shuttle, while Nate was guiding the crew responsible for the modifications on the other shuttle. John strolled over to Nate and watched the old man for a minute. Until he noticed John studying him. “She’ll be ready on time,” Nate said before John could ask. John smiled. “Say, why do you stay out of the TSD so much? You’re physically almost as old as you were when we first met.” “That damn thing makes my skin crawl, and my brain feels like it’s full of bees. Just hate it.” “Oh, do you think there’s a malfunction? Should we have Rhe-A take a look at you?” “No use, I’m told it’s all in my head. Besides, I like living, really living.” “Believe it or not, I do know how you feel.” John put a hand on his shoulder. “We launch within the hour.” “We’ll be ready.”

The shuttles cloaked before leaving the atmosphere. They didn’t know if it would help or not, but it made them feel better. They sped quickly toward the oncoming rock. In less than an hour, they were scanning it to determine its resonance. No activity from the Destroyers, or resistance. Subriasa worked the controls as John readied the weapon system. “Icarus is in position.” “We are in position,” Drof answered.

“The asteroid in rotating too fast. The frequency modulating is near light speed. If we can slow the tumble, I should be able to get an accurate reading.” “Nate, did you read that?” “Affirmative, John. We can demodulate the weapon to act as an opposing force. Sending over the modification now.” “Understood.” The computers worked overtime to make the adjustments, and after a few minutes were ing ready. “Time is a concern,” Subriasa said, with all the emotion of a computer. John acknowledged the concern. “Nate, initiate synchronization, now.” “Understood.” The cloaks dissolved, and an amber beam from both ships from each side of the rock lit up the spatial field around it. The large object didn’t slow.” “Increase power output.” “Increasing.” “It’s working, continue,” Subriasa informed. It took precious minutes for the asteroid to slow. John looked at the chronometer. Earth was growing larger in the view screens. “Subriasa, we need that frequency.” “Almost there,” slight excitement rising in her voice. John kept a close eye on the commandeered shuttle sitting quietly on the asteroid. No movement, no sign of life, and no resistance. What could they be up to, John thought. “I have it. Sending data to the weapons computer.”

“Nate, reconfigure weapons system and advise when ready.” “Understood.” John moved his hands, and mind, around the console, quickly reinstating the original program. “Ready, Nate?” “Affirmative.” “Initiate in three, two, one.” The shuttles maintained a twenty-five-mile distance on opposite sides. The amber beams slipped through the field and disappeared into the heart of the stone. The asteroids slow tumble made it look like potato twisting on a straight line of string. “It’s working,” Nate said over the comm, “We’re reaching critical mass.” “Good, Earth is coming up fast.” “Disintegration in thirty seconds,” Subriasa recited. John was starting to relax when his beam shut down. “Nate, what happened?” “I don’t know,” he said, as his comm feed showed him frantically working over his computer. “Get me power back,” he yelled at no one in particular, “I’m receiving some kind of interference from the asteroid. It has destabilized my beam.” “Subriasa, can we use our repulser beam to move it?” “Affirmative.” “Nate reconfigure for repulse beam. Let’s move it out of Earth’s path and blow it up later.” “Understood, ready.” “Initiate.” Nate’s shuttle was now adjacent to John’s. The invisible force strained both

shuttles as the asteroid began to move in the desired direction. “Sir, receiving some kind of ,” Subriasa stated. “I see it, Nate, disengage, now!” The console blew up, and sent Nate backward. “Increase power output to compensate,” John said, worrying about his old friend. “All available power has been rerouted. Anymore and we’ll overload,” Drof explained. “Nate, can you hear me?” “Yes,” his pained voice could be heard over the static, “I’m fine,” John could feel-he wasn’t. “Get out of there, we’ll take over.” “Negative, most of the controls are inoperative.” “Captain,” Drof interrupted, “the asteroid has reached the outer atmosphere. We’ve weakened it to the point it could break apart. We should move to a safer distance.” “Nate, we are going to pull you out, prepare-” A smaller piece of the asteroid broke away and almost collided with John’s shuttle, if it hadn’t been for Drof’s experience and reaction time, they would be space dust. The shuttle careened dramatically to the side and tumbled momentarily out of control. Drof regained control quickly. “Nate, are you there?” “Yes, we were well clear of the asteroid debris. I’ve got partial control back.” “Good, fall back to our rendezvous point.” “Negative, Captain. What will happen if this thing impacts Earth?” “You know all surface life bigger than a mouse will die.”

“Right, then it must be stopped. My crew has already abandoned ship. Get them and get out. The largest piece that broke off has left many fissures in the main body. If I can get deep enough, and overload the main engine, well, you know.” “Nate, get out of there, we can remote pilot the shuttle in.” “Unable, the shuttle is hard to handle as is. Go after the other piece.” “Nate, I’m ordering you to evacuate.” “Sorry, Captain, this is one order I’m going to have to disobey.” The shuttle dipped into a debris field, rocking left and right, while in a dive. “Captain Athain, I’ve had a long and well lived life. I should’ve been dead thousands of years ago, but I got many life times, thank you-” The communication stopped, as the shuttle disappeared into the blazing rock. John’s eyes glazed over for a moment. “Drof, pursue the smaller piece.” “Understood.” The shuttle peeled away, and was soon on top of the fiery ball of iron and nickel. John watched out of his window as a light flash erupted near the northern pole, spreading fire and shockwaves in all directions. They had no time to morn. John ordered the trajectory repulser beam to full power. They followed the molten projectile trying to change its course. “John,” Drof said through the vibration, “the Destroyer shuttle...it’s still there, and the asteroid piece has change its course back to the original setting. We are having no effect on it.” “They are guiding it. Too where? Chrysalis?” “No, my projection is-near power point eighteen.” “How much damage to the planet will it do?” Subriasa spoke up, “In that area, and small size-minimal, over time. We must do something within the next minute, or do nothing, but I would advise against staying in the blast zone.”

“Thirty seconds to impact,” Drof recited. “Can we fire on it, to break it up more? Anything?” “This shuttle doesn’t have the power, we would only be able chip away at it, but there is no time.” John hit the console in frustration. “break away to a safe distance and monitor, may the Destroyers rot in hell.” “Understood,” Drof said, while pulling away. Quickly gaining altitude and splitting away, they watched as the fireball came closer to the water from a North-Easterly angle. Just before impact, an artificial hole opened up in the ocean, similar to when John first encountered the Destroyers in this area. The rock slipped into the hole and briefly disappeared, the resulting explosion erupted in fiery rock and steaming water. The tsunami spread quickly in all directions. It reminded John of when Atlantis took off. “Drof, how many people on the coastlines:” “Since it is a migratory season, the loss of life will be-less.” John sat back in his chair and put his head in one hand. “I failed miserably.” “This was a concerted effort among your peers, we all failed. You cannot just blame yourself,” Subriasa told him with the most sincerity he had ever heard from her. “But I should-” The console beeped. “I’m reading a ship.” The water raced back into the hole, as the storm and debris began to dissipate. John zoomed in on the visual, and there it was, the stolen shuttle flew circles around the impact area. Then without warning, it dove in the water, disappearing from sight and sensor. “How the hell did that thing survive?” “Unknown, we’ll have to study this event.”

Jay startled himself awake. He was groggy, but his head didn’t hurt this time. He sat up as Rhe-A came to him with an injector. He waved her off. She gave him a strange look, then went back to her studies. “It seems the Destroyers are indestructible. How is the key even going to make a difference?” John looked at Jay sadly. “Why is this thing making me relive some of my nightmares,” he said more to himself, than anyone else. “Maybe the machine needs Jay to understand who you are in order to unravel the puzzle of what you’ve hidden so deeply,” Rhe-A explained. “Still trying to wrap my head around werewolves, vampires, minotaurs, and dozens of other creatures that lurk in our nightmares.” “Most of that was intentional,” John explained, “to make human Cousins fear them enough to leave them alone. To make them seem scary enough to avoid them.” “Sorry about Nate. He seemed like a really good person.” “He was a great and selfless man. He saved everyone.” “What happened after the impacts? I couldn’t help but notice the chronometer, this happened near the time of the extinction some twelve thousand years ago.” “Probably closer to thirteen thousand.” John got up and strolled around. “Nate managed to destroy the larger asteroid near the Northern pole just before impact, damage was unavoidable. The sudden release of so much energy caused flash fires, volcanic eruptions that drastically changed weather patterns. You call it the Younger Dryas period.” John walked around trying to shake off the effects of the traumatic memories. “Between the tsunami and weather changes, the Clovis people were wiped out as far inland as central North America. The ones we transplanted from the power point eighteen site a few thousand years before. Animal extinction levels were unprecedented. The incident was felt for thousands of years. The disruption of the North American ice shelf cooled the

ocean and slowed the jet stream. The sudden introduction of ice melt began to slow the Atlantic water heating circulation causing the weather to dramatically change. We watched, helplessly, but we learned. We tried to help where we could, while, bringing back samples, sometimes genetic material, sometimes the whole animal. We have a large collection of plants and animals in storage from your prehistoric time. Atlantis has a lot of samples from other worlds we have visited.” “Something similar to an ark?” “If you wish to use that analogy.” “So, how did the Destroyers survive?” “The area where Atlantis lifted off, and the spot where the asteroid impacted has made the Earth’s crust weaker. At least we learned something from this disasternot to underestimate them, it was their plan all along. In their transphasic state between universes, they cannot easily affect things physically. They planned the asteroid diversion, knowing we would interfere. In order to manipulate our universe physically, they need agoam crystals, such as the ones the shuttle contains. They calculated we would attempt to destroy the rock; they could have cared less about what affect it would have on the planet. Not needing so much fire power, we accommodated them by breaking it apart, and while we were busy with the larger piece, they were carefully aiming the smaller piece at power point eighteen. All this time we thought they had control of the power point, but they still hadn’t gotten past the force field. So, they let kinetic energy of the meteor do the work for them. The direct impact took down the force field and gave them access to the crystals. The area has been their base ever since.” “So, that is why that area has been dangerous ever since humans crossed the ocean. Crazy magnetic fluctuations, unexplained disappearances of people, ships, and weird sightings.” “Yes, you call it the Bermuda triangle.” “Wow, still, how did they survive?” “All this time we thought they were a direct physical threat. The phasic state they exist in, either in this universe, or another, is flexible. Their mother ship keeps them grounded to this universe, perhaps through agoam crystals. The

ability to stay physical in this universe requires the crystals, or a capable host, like an Atlantean, someone who has been exposed to agoam crystals, human or animal. All their ships exist in this phasic state, much like looking at an object through water, slightly distorted, or where reality is bent. When in the past, they were not directly where we were shooting, it was as if we were missing the target. This is why we could never overwhelm them with fire power.” “You’re saying, they could phase into another universe for a short period of time and then phase back?” “Yes, avoiding disaster.” Jay sat contemplating this new information. “Now, I have a headache.” “Let’s take a break. I want to show you more of Chrysalis. We’ve done well for being stranded.” Jay got up and said, “Lead the way.” They strolled through the complex. Jay carried a drink, listening to John explain some of the inner workings of Chrysalis. He was more amazed at the underground complex that could easily be a home than just a cave hideout. He recognized the ancient Greek pattern of architecture. Columns, arches, and artistic nuances from many time periods. His recollection from the Atlantis story resembled the same structure and outline of the great ship, just a fraction of the size. Jay learned the inner workings of the compound quickly. He met new types of people that he thought were myths, and others he never even knew existed. It took hours, but they finally made it back to the laboratory, where Rhe-A, Athene-A, and Pandor-A sat impatiently waiting. “Enjoy boys day out,” Athene-A commented. “Sorry Grandma got lost in all the excitement,” Jay made an excuse. “It’s alright, I was just having some fun with you.” John looked at Jay. “I need to keep you around more.” They snickered.

Athene-A didn’t look amused. “Can we get this thing started.” It was more of a command than a question.

Chapter Fourteen: Personal Qualities Jay gazed across a marvelous landscape, one so pure and untouched by man’s arrogance. At least not yet. He absorbed the beauty, as he surveyed his surroundings through another’s eyes. He panned the area of hills and mountains that were green with new spring growth. “I’ve always loved this planet, Zeusticus. I never knew the fertile green and blue of old Terrah. All I is death and destruction on a barren backdrop,” Jay said in a feminine voice. “I, too, have always ired this world, Athene-A. Its vibrant colors, enough life to fill hundreds of planets, but mostly, the people, our Cousins, have become my favorites. they remind me of children I never had. A way of filling an empty void.” “Yes, they have, and they do,” she said a little sadly, ing the children she had already out lived. “Come, we must take more readings of that spatial anomaly the satellite picked up.” Jay thought he recognized the area as they made their way back to the shuttle. Its geological patterns reminded him of area around the Mediterranean. He watched his Grandmother’s face in the reflection of the shuttle’s instruments, as she performed a preflight inspection. He didn’t recognize the man she had been talking to. He was tall, muscular, even for an Atlantean, light complexion on a back drop of short black hair with a week-old darkening beard. “Ready for lift off, Zeusticus,” Athene-A confidently said. Hesti-A shook her blond streaked hair as she worked behind the two at a console situated against the bulkhead. “The anomaly is sending out echoes,” she said, not even turning to acknowledge them, “This area was a false signal. New triangulation calculations puts it further north of here, close to the volcanic fault line. Coordinates are set.” Zeusticus commanded the shuttle to follow the instructions, and then they were airborne. Poseidon’s shuttle will arrive at the new coordinates before we do,” Athene-A

reported. Zeusticus smiled. “My brothers have always tested me. Let’s see if I’m worthy,” he said, turning off the automation and putting the shuttle in a steep dive. He manually flew the craft through valleys and riverbeds, turning, climbing, and diving. The others on board tightened their straps, shook their heads and groaned. They had been on many missions with him, and knew his behavior as impulsive, bordering on reckless, but confident. They knew he would sacrifice his life quickly for anyone of them. The Shuttle rose over a mountain top to reveal a chaotic scene. Smoke and ash covered the area where lava sprayed into the air. Steam bellowed out of nearby crevices, but it didn’t expand. The whole scene stayed in place like a lakeside landscape. Human Cousins could be seen in the distance walking toward the fiery scene. Perhaps fear had been replaced by curiosity. “I’m not reading anything,” Hesti-A said, while working the console. “These non-readings-it’s like there’s nothing there-a void. I’ve never seen this before.” “Look,” Athene-A said, simultaneously pointing a finger at the windscreen, “the Odyssey has crashed landed near the chasm.” “I don’t understand why-” Zeusticus was cut off by a power loss. The shuttle nose dived toward the other shuttle. He fought the manual controls as it rocked and bucked, while slipping sideways. He was able to right the ship just before impact, skidding to a rough halt, producing a trench of new dirt. Smoke and dust twirled about the cabin like it had no place to go. If they hadn’t been strapped in from Zeusticus’s reckless flying, there would’ve been serious injuries. Now, investigation team Alpha was just as grounded as team Beta. A little dazed, the crew began to evaluate their situation. A few lacerations and internal injuries on impact when the gravity stabilizers shut down, nothing that wouldn’t heal within a day. Zeusticus manually released the hatch and stepped out into the hot, dirty, dry air. Athene-A followed, and then moved further out. A striking woman with blonde hair, stepped out holding her arm. She stopped at the doorway and gave Zeusticus an evil glare. “Demeter, our healing instruments are down, we have

some first aid treatments, but you’ll have to heal mostly on your own.” “Yes, I know Father, wait until Mother hears about this.” “Lucky for me she’s still in the Temporal Storage Device.” He half smiled. “I hope my Uncles were-lucky-too.” She moved out to help Athene-A with the shuttle. Delphi-Apollo stuck his bruised head out of the hatch. “Tell me again why we brought a horticulturalist along?” “Tell me again why I brought you along?” “Because you always need a navigation and propulsion expert when you fly, and apparently a medic, too.” Zeusticus huffed. “Check out the shuttle, and put your expertise to some use.” Apollo waved him off, and moved to the rear of the shuttle. “Hephaestus, will she be alright?” Zeusticus asked, while the Minotaur emerged from the shuttle with a beautiful woman, with her arm around his neck, and his around her waist. “I think Aphrodite-Ourani-A’s leg might be broken,” The bull man with a short snout and high curved short horns, said, as he brought her out of the shuttle. “Any word on my sister?” Aphrodite asked, while hobbling to stand up straight. “No, we’re still assessing the situation, we’ll know soon. Hephaestus, take her over to that burned out tree over there, and see if Apollo can help.” Hephaestus easily picked her up in his arms and carried her away, their E-suits appeared dark gray in the smoky haze. Athene-A returned to Zeusticus when Dian-A-Artemis led Dionysus out into the open. “Will you be alright, Dionysus?” Zeusticus asked with concern.

He took his hand away from his almond shaped eyes to reveal some damage. Sweat rolled down his tan features. He brushed his dark hair out of his face, and said, “Junction conduit overloaded, the blindness is temporary, I’ll be fine.” “Is there anything I can do for you?” “Yes, an intoxicating drink.” “I’m afraid the dispensers are inoperative.” “Too bad.” “Dian-A, are you injured?” Athene-A asked. “No, I seem to have avoided injury,” she responded, while looking herself over. “Good,” Athene-A sounded relieved. “Your cousin, Lee-A, was my colleague and friend. I think of her still.” “I was very young when she died in Settler’s Field.” “Well, let’s see if we can get out of this mess.” They all turned and headed for the group. “I doubt there’s much a Zoologist can do in situations like this,” Dian-A responded. “We’ll see.” A loud crash came from inside the shuttle. Zeusticus and Athene-A ran in to see a black haired, tan, typical Atlantean woman, standing at a control removing its cover, and dropping it on the floor. “Themis, what are you doing?” Zeusticus asked, approaching her. “I’m doing something...not just sitting around, like trying to find out what happened to our ship,” she said, touching juncture points. “You’re a Council member and bureaucrat, not an engineer.” “Well, what are you going to do to get us out of here?” she asked, half panicked.

“It’s not the ship, it’s an outside force. Come, let us go outside and figure this out.” Her features softened and she took his hand. They exited the still smoky shuttle, and led her to the group gathered by the burned-out tree. “Looks like we’re going to have to do this the old-fashioned way, and use our brains and senses. The injured stay here, Apollo, see what you can do for them. The rest come with me,” Zeusticus ordered, and then started walking toward the ridge. Athene-A pointed in the direction of the other shuttle when she and Zeusticus came to the top of the rise and gazed down. “I hope Rhe-A, Cronus, your brothers, and the others, are alright,” Athene-A worriedly said. “I see some movement,” Zeusticus said, as the very muscular, and exceptionally tall Atlantean moved forward. The group followed him through the scorched earth until they came to a crowd of Cousins. They were all transfixed on the lake of bubbling lava. The group moved ed them, determining they were still alive, but immobile. Any closer and the heat would surely burn them. They weaved their way through the stone still crowd to get to the Odyssey. It had been abandoned, and looked as though it had suffered the same fate as Andromeda. Weaving their way through statuesque Cousins toward the chasm, all were staring in the same direction. They stopped to see Beta team staring into the inferno. “Something’s really wrong,” Athene-A quietly said. “I feel something gnawing at my consciousness, something dark.” Zeusticus turned to Dian-A-Artemis, and said, “You’re pretty good with animals and wilderness, go South and see if you can get out of this zone of impotence. Maybe you can find a Pegasus to help you get back to Chrysalis. We have to let them know what’s going on, and where we are.” “Yes, Sir,” Dian-A said, and then took off running. Jay’s mind was racing with confusion as he panned around, ledges were full of human Cousins, bobbing in and out of sight. Apparently, not all Cousins were affected. He broke through the crowd of shorter Cousins on his way to the edge

of the chasm, where other Atlanteans stood frozen in the heat, staring into the abyss. He saw his Grandmother’s hand reach up and put it on Rhe-A’s shoulder. “Rhe-A, are you alright?” She blinked a few times, then took a deep breath, and shook her confusion away. “Uh, I think so, yes, don’t you hear that?” “I feel a slight buzz at the edge on my mind.” Cronus turned toward Athene-A, and said, “That sound, a warm, soothing, inviting sound...,” He started to drift back into the trance. Athene-A glanced back to see most of her own crew hypnotized. All the races seemed to be affected in one way or another. Without warning, the ground shook, people wavered, but didn’t fall. She looked in the direction of the disturbance. A ripple in the lava made small waves. The affects spread out as invisible matter whipped by her like a heat wave. The affects could only be seen by the stirring of dust and gravel. The wave dissipated a few yards after it ed the group of human statues. The immediate area became darker, as if the sun had been eclipsed. Ash caused the ground to be hotter as Athene-A stumbled backward. The lava gurgled and spewed; movement caused it to slosh around. Her eyes grew wide as a splatter of lava landed on the rocky shore, more splatter, it began to coalesce and solidify as it crawled on shore. It was small at first, then grew upward. Heat ripples expanded as it rose and began to take the shape of a humanoid bipedal form. Its orange shape sprouted two arms and five fingers, which it used to drag itself toward the nearest Cousin. The glob rose up and formed legs. The red-hot biped wrapped its arms around the Cousin, and absorbed him into its body. His scream was the last thing of him. Athene-A had not known fear for a long time, but it was evident on her face, now. The creature moved to the next one, more sure of itself as it consumed. Athene-A could not tare her eyes off of the horrific sight. The creature now began to take the shape of a humanoid woman as she consumed a third Cousin. “Stop!” The creature did, and then looked directly at her with lava orange eyes. Its features becoming more and more detailed. Athene-A’s yell brought a few of her company out of their trance.

“We need to retreat and assess the situation, let’s go.” The small group started to move away. “Take as many as you can with you. She took Rhe-A’s arm, she was reluctant at first, but slowly began to walk with Athene-A. Leading the Atlanteans away, she stepped ed an invisible barrier where the sun shined normally, again, the air fresh and cooler. At that moment, Rhe-A came back to her senses, albeit, confused. Athene-A noticed it immediately. “Let’s get them out of the zone of influence.” She ran back in to get more people out. She took hold of Poseidon’s muscular arm and barely budged him. She got in front of him and put both hands on his chest, and pushed. He backed up a couple of steps when she heard it again, the sound of mud slopping on a rock. She slowly turned, hoping not to see that sight again, yet there it was. Lava rolled out of the pit and consumed the nearest Cousin. It started to coalesce into a male bipedal figure as Cousin after Cousin was absorbed. It focused on Athene-A, and started slopping its way toward her. She turned back to Poseidon, and slapped him as hard as she could. His head snapped to the side, but his eyes came back into focus. “Athene-A?” he said, bringing up his own hand to his face. “What-” “Let’s go, now!” By the time all the Atlanteans had been pulled, or dragged, outside the hypnotizing bubble, Zeusticus’s crew from Andromeda, came down to meet them. They were all healed enough to function on their own, except AphroditeOurani-A, who was still being carried by Hephaestus. He didn’t seem to mind. Athene-A felt safe enough outside the dome of influence to take a head count. Zeusticus stood next to his two brothers, Poseidon and Hades, talking feverishly with each other. Demeter and Hephaestus stood next to a kneeling Apollo, who was checking out Aphrodite-Ourani-A’s leg, and her twin sister, AproditePandemos’s arm. Why would someone name their identical twins the same name, Athene-A always wondered. Akiri-Dionysus was being fawned over by Beta team’s Themis and Thei-A. Mnemosyne, Rhe-A, Cronus, and Hyperion, stood at the edge of the invisible barrier of influence and stared stoically. Cousins kept coming, as Atlanteans tried to stop them, but they would not be denied. Jay’s eyes looked up at the ridge line to see hundreds of non-affected Cousins, moving about, too scared to approach, and powerless to stop their brethren from strolling to their deaths.

“Zeusticus, do you know what this is?” Athene-A asked, while trying to push several Cousins away. “I believe it to be a spatial rift, or tare in dimensional space. I can’t be sure without my instruments. But I would say the Destroyers are breaking through.” There were now four creatures that selected their way through the Cousins, like picking fruit from an orchard. Athene-A, and the others close to her, backed away as the first creature came to the edge of the spatial field and stopped. Her features were as tall as she, but much less lava-like, now, more human in color and texture. They stared at each other. Athene-A felt something at the edge of her mind, begging to get in. She knew better. A brush across her shoulder drew her attention to a female Cousin, transfixed, she held a small crying child as she walked by Athene-A. She tried to stop her, but she was like a planet being sucked in by a black hole. She managed to pull the child from her arms just before she entered the field. The Destroyer stopped the woman soon after, and ripped off her arm, and began eating it by a more conventional means. The blood dripped off of her chin as she made no facial expression. Athene-A felt bile creep up her esophagus, while the others just groaned. Athene-A still couldn’t tear herself away. Jay could feel her recognition of the monster. “I know that face, Zeusticus, wait, let me think.” She dug back into eons of memories and reports. “Gai-A, is that you?” The creature stopped chewing, as if recognizing her name. Athene-A ed the child off to Rhe-A, who held it while shaking off the hypnotic effects. “Do you know her?” Zeusticus asked. “I know who it resembles, Gai-A, just one of the many Atlanteans gone missing over the time we’ve been stranded here. We’ve always tried to find them, but a lot of them simply vanish. It seems the Destroyers now have a purpose for us.” “Why? Why not just kill us?” “Maybe they now have a reason to keep us alive, or maybe we have finally piqued their curiosity.” “Do you think they can survive outside this spatial field?” The ground shook and staggered the two crews. Then, the field expanded ed

them by thirty yards. The Gai-A creature stepped toward Athene-A, who immediately began pushing and waving everyone back outside the sphere of influence. “I don’t think they can, yet, but if this field keeps expanding, that won’t be a problem.” The other three creatures absorbed, or ate Cousins without concern, and they too, began to coalesce into humanoids. They moved slowly toward Athene-A at the barrier. She had never seen fear in Zeusticus, but there it was. “What do you see, Zeusticus?” Athene-A asked, trying to see what he saw. “Those two-they-I think they look like-Nyx-A and Erebus. I presided over their union, but they vanished several thousand years ago, while studying a Medusan colony. I see the pattern, who’s the fourth? I don’t recognize him-it. Do any of you?” she asked the crews. “That thing is representing, Uranus,” Cronus said from behind them, starring through the clear wavy barrier. “My father. He’s been missing for five hundred years. What kind of sick game are they playing.” “I don’t know, Cronus,” Athene-A said, and turned to the Cousins that kept wandering into the field. She noticed the Cousins, that weren’t affected, jumping about, screaming at their brethren to stop, while trying to keep their distance from the Atlanteans. “Why do they keep coming and volunteering themselves to these creatures?” “They seem to need their DNA to develop,” Apollo said, moving closer. “I think it’s some kind of subconscious waves projecting, or overlaying desires, perhaps psyonic, and visual in nature. I can feel them trying to get in, also.” “We really need some technology,” Athene-A said, stopping Rhe-A from walking into the field. Every few minutes, an Atlantean would have to stop another from walking into the barrier. Cronus, as did the others, looked disgusted at the sight. He glanced around, taking in all the information he could. He focused on his pseudo-father, and a toddler sitting at his feet, crying. It’s mother was half consumed by the monster. Cronus tore himself away from the sight, spotting a strong charred

branch, picked it up and moved into the field before anyone could stop him. He fought back the influence and charged forward and whacked his father impersonator as hard as he could. The branch splintered away as the thing went down solidly, it stirred, and then began to heal. Cronus took the child and marched back to the others. “What was that all about?” Poseidon asked. “A little revenge on your father.” Cronus half smiled. “An experiment.” He ed the child off to Thei-A. “The small children don’t seem to be affected,” Apollo remarked. “But I can feel it constantly gnawing at my consciousness.” People were still coming, albeit sporadically. The beings grew even taller and bigger as the day wore on. The Atlanteans were comparing notes, and trying to devise a plan of action, while waiting on a rescue. The newly formed beings were now well over ten feet tall. They stood at the edge of the field and starred out, focusing their power on a select few. Cronus gradually moved away from the group, followed by Rhe-A, Hyperion, Mnemosyne, Iapetus, Themis, along with Thei-A, carrying the child. Crius slipped quietly around with the others. Before anyone noticed, they were all in the field. Zeusticus moved to retrieve them, but it was too late, the other remaining Atlanteans stopped him. Gai-A put her hand on Rhe-A’s head, quickly followed by a flash of white light. Another flash, as the Uranus figure did the same to Cronus. Flashes dotted the landscape as the others succumbed to the hypnotic state. One by one, they took body parts and began to eat. “We need to get out of here, Zeusticus, before we all fall victim to-whatever this is,” Athene-A begged. Zeusticus knew she was right, but wanted desperately to do something. “You’re right. Let’s get the others out of the sphere of influence if we can. We need to get word to Chrysalis.” They moved down the mountain as quickly as the wounded could go. The Aphrodite sisters were helping each other as the others guarded, or scouted ahead. Once over the mountain and partially through the next valley, Athene-A was the first to mention the lessening of the mental pull. The rest confirmed it as they made their way to home base.

Hesti-A stopped, looked up and smiled. Soon, the rest heard the flapping of wings. Over the tree tops, a white winged horse was being followed by a heard of many colors and sizes. They landed at a run near the refugees. The white Pegasus Prime moved toward Hesti-A and nuzzled her. “They are confused and nervous about the psyonic pulses emanating from the chasm. They are here to help. I relayed the message that we need a ride to Chrysalis. I’m told Artemis is already there. Let’s go.” They each picked an adult, or where picked, and were soon airborne. Artemis met them half way back with their last remaining shuttle. The return trip to Chrysalis was a roundabout route to keep their hideout a secret.

Jay could feel the sterile environment of the base, while watching the Pegasi being fed, watered, and then given a safe place to rest. A Council meeting was called immediately to assess the situation. Once everyone, who could be brought out to the TSD, were seated, the chatter still didn’t cease. It was Zeusticus’s turn at Chief Councilor, he prepared his terminal interface for an onslaught of information. Athene-A sat to his right. “Where’s John?” She asked, Pandor-A, who sat to her right. “He’s still in an Extra-Temporal-Dissociation-state, the TSD won’t release him, along with several other Councilors.” “So, his essence is floating around out there. This is starting to happen more frequently.” “Yes, it is, we are trying to adjust the TSD, in order to prevent as many leaks as possible,” Pandor-A said, in her own voice. “Ladies and Gentlemen, as Chief Councilor, I’m bringing this Council to order,” Zeusticus confidently informed. “What further data do we have on the situation?” Hades stood up and put a 3-D satellite image of the contested area in the center of the circular table. His analytical voice did not match his shorter than normal

Atlantean physic. His slightly chubby appearance was in contrast to his muscular and athletic brothers. His hair was pressed close to his head, shiny black against a pasty face, which stood out even more against the black E-suit that he wore. “The spatial anomaly is expanding slowly, maybe twenty yards every six hours. We have no instrumentation that can penetrate the field, so, most of what we know is by observation.” “Send a representative of all the species to the site, find out, if any, can withstand the psyonic attack the best. We need first hand information of any changes. Athene-A get a crew working on how to get readings through that barrier. We need a weapon, other than sticks and stones. We also need crews to stop the influx of Cousins, cut off their food supply, or DNA supply. Starve them into submission, and mostly, save some lives. A psyonic shield would help greatly. Any questions?” “Is it the Destroyers?” The bolder Aphrodite sister asked. “All indications say, yes, but don’t be intimidated. We’ve beaten them before. We are going to use our brains to beat them this time. Anything else?” The room fell silent. “Good, now, get to your assignments, we have a world to save.”

Zeusticus stood quietly in the atrium, listening to the latest music composition when Athene-A walked up. Jay could feel her reservations about not having Rhe-A, or John, there to help her. “What priority do you want on the weapons system, stun, capture, or kill?” she asked as the music came to a crescendo. “Kill,” he softly said. “Even if one of them is your friends or family?” “The influenced are dead, and the only way to stop them is to kill them. The time has ed for pacifism.” “That’s not how John would handle the situation.”

“John’s not here, you have your assignment.” “Understood,” she said with gritted teeth and walked away.

Jay felt the age of time, while watching Zeusticus pace. Atlanteans of all species entered the decorated chamber after only two days. “Progress report,” Zeusticus barked without preamble. Athene-A had never feared much, and Zeusticus was least on her short list. The Vice Councilor stood and waved the diorama to show the contested area. “The field has grown exponentially, psyonically infected Cousins are being rescued, and then held in a secure camp. The Pegasi, being naturally mentally evolved creatures, are the most protected against the psyonic attack. We have discovered something that might bring our technology to bear. The spatial disruption properties of the snow found on Tundra may hold the key. A minute amount has survived, and we are attempting to recreate its disruptive influence. It is experimental, but simulation are encouraging. We can use it to counter the deadening field and use technology.” “Let’s make this our highest priority.” “Testing, experimenting, and implementation is being done as we speak,” Athene-A emotionlessly said. Jay could feel through her emotions, that she wished deeply John were here to lead. Zeusticus was a good leader, she thought, and a brilliant tactician, but didn’t have the temperament, or personal qualities John has. We have to work with what we have; John would always say.

Zeusticus was watching a live satellite feed of the spatial rift area when AtheneA arrived. He acknowledged her presents as he widened the view of the detainment camp. It was a hundred miles away from the rift and showed thousands of detainees struggling against a force field to get to the siren making humanoid giants. The more they ate the bigger they became. Many of their features temporarily turned and blended into the people they consumed, some

would acquire Minotaur attributes, along with Centaur, wings, scales and a host of other appendages. He zoomed in on Rhe-A and Cronus, they too, were infected, growing, and twisting their features. He looked away. “I hope you have some good news.” “As a matter of fact, I do. We have developed a spatial counter-field. It uses the Tundra principles to nullify its effects. It works best in a gaseous form, then it uses a catalyst for activation.” “What’s the catalyst?” “Excited electrons.” “Isn’t spewing electrical current a little dangerous, for us?” “Not if you use the equipment properly.” She stared at the horrible sight in front of her. He smiled. “Excellent, let’s get a plan together and drive these beasts back into the abyss.” “Your dramatic inference aside, you do that some of our people are caught in the middle.” “Yes, yes, that’s where a plan comes in, otherwise I would be raining everything I could on them.” Athene-A shook her head, but glad he finally realized that it was friends and family out there, suffering. “I’ll call a session together,” she said, and then walked away.

The Council room was cold and bare, the thought was not to distract the councils by gaudy ornamentation. Zeusticus took his place of authority and began at the light gray round table. “First part of the plan is to send in a tech team to reconfigure and recalibrate the two shuttles. Has our Pegasus friends been briefed on how to bring in our technicians?”

“There is a herd on its way here now. They too, have lost family to this phenomenon. Some are not as resistant as we once thought. Almost every other species here at Chrysalis has been affected,” Artemis said. “They all want to help.” “Second part: the distraction while the first team gets the shuttles out. “We’ll get in close and see how effective our weapons are. Third: a tech team will analyze the rift and discover how to close it, or at least curtail its expansion.” Poseidon spoke up, “It has reached the sea, but has slowed dramatically. It too, seems to be synchronized to the DNA consumption of the Titans, that’s what the Cousins are calling them. Since we’ve been cutting off most of their food supply, they’ve stopped growing so fast. Rhe-A and Cronus seem to be resisting, they are only half the size of the originals.” “How soon can we be ready?” Zeusticus emphatically asked. “We’re still getting the war machine back up and running.” “How long?” He asked loudly and impatiently. “Two weeks.” Zeusticus slammed his fist down on the console. “Ten days, we attack.” “We’ll do our best,” Athene-A turned to leave, followed by the rest. She met Her-A at the doorway, they acknowledged one another with a nod as they ed by. Zeusticus stopped his pacing and looked up. “Her-A, you’re finally out of the TSD.” He gave her a deep hug and a long kiss. She returned his affection, somewhat reluctantly. Zeusticus broke the embrace and moved toward the battle table. It showed the area in question complete with 3-D topographical real time landscape. “Have you been updated on the situation?” “No, I came straight here to ask you why you didn’t bring me out of the TSD when you came out?” “I saw no sense in wasting your time, but...then things started to happen.”

“Who put you in charge? Where’s John?” “I was voted in, and John...” he said with a slip of contempt, “is in an ExtraTemporal Dissociation state.” Her-A pushed back some unruly black hair, her short, but muscular stocky stance betrayed her skepticism. She moved to the battle table and put her hands on her hips. “Give me a report.”

“So, explain to me again why Her-A’s overseeing the attack, and you are leading the expeditionary force,” Athene-A said, while shifting her golden winged helmet from under one arm to the other, while they walked to the shuttles. “She’s the best situational tactician and data analyst we have. Not to mention, she’s been studying the Destroyers since the beginning,” Zeusticus tried to explain. “I think it’s a mistake, and why are you leading an attack?” “I can’t sit back and have people sacrifice without doing the same.” Athene-A didn’t look convinced. “What would John do? Would he sit back and watch?” Athene-A couldn’t argue. John would be the first in the fight. She remained silent to move the discussion along. “The plan is still the same, you’ll lead the air assault, I’ll lead the ground assault. Poseidon will lead the shuttle recovery team during the distraction, using the ocean for cover. Hades will be monitoring our progress and advising us of any effects we might be having.” The newly built, less sophisticated, shuttles lifted off and escaped the mountain’s hideout. “How long until we get to the rendezvous point?” Athene-A asked, standing behind the two pilots. “Two minutes to reach the landing area outside the deadening zone. The Pegasi

are already there.” Drof said. The shuttles landed and the troops assembled in the open area. Athene-A, in her golden armor moved down the ranks inspecting the experimental weapons, defensive units, and communication units. Zeusticus looked over his small army with pride. They were a mass of uncommon people with one goal in mind-stop the Destroyers. Many different colors of armor and weapons glistened in the sunlight, on many different shapes and sizes of Atlanteans. “Atlanteans!” Zeusticus started, which quieted the crowd, “All of you know why we are here. We must stop the spatial rip and drive the Destroyers back to the hell they came from. They fight for conquest alone-we fight for our very survival, we, therefore have the advantage. Now, may the Great Creator stand by our side, and Enlightenment guide us.” His voice got louder, “For we will not be denied our existence!” The crowd cheered and rattled their shields and weapons. The wind kicked up and a tremor shook the ground as Thestor-Hermes, landed nearby and made his way to Zeusticus, causing people to separate to allow the Dragon to . “Did I miss anything?” The Dragon smiled a toothy smile, and snorting a laugh. “Not yet, my friend. So, Despin-A let you go, I see.” “Much more time with those kids and a war would have broke out in Chrysalis. I thought my efforts might be of better use here.” “Ha, you are correct.” Athene-A acknowledged Hermes, and turned to Zeusticus. “You did read the instructions about your gauntlet?” “Yes, yes.” Zeusticus pointed at the controls on the fingerless glove that strapped across his right forearm. “This initiates the system, and this crystal allows me to control and direct with my mind, simple.” Athene-A rolled her eyes. “Good luck.” She continued to hand out, and give advice on how to use the newly developed weapons. The small one-handed bow shaped weapon was designed for accurate placement of a rocket propelled arrow. The arrowhead released anti-spatial contents on impact. Other weapons like the

gauntlet were made for a more wide spread multiple target destruction. The spear shaped weapon was set to give the more reach. Many carried conventional weapons, like the beam pistols and rifles. If the agoam and Tundra dispersal field combination worked, then their old weapons would be effective. Many of the older generations, carried ornamental swords and knives, Jay thought he might have even seen a projectile weapon or two. The Pegasus group held still as their respective riders tightened up saddles and carefully put golden armor chainmail across their chests and buttocks. A form fitting nano-metal helmet form fitted itself around the ears and eyes, some didn’t like it, but knew its importance. Zeusticus was iring his small army when he felt hot breath on his back, and his mind. He turned to see Hermes staring down at him. He, too, had a saddle harness and extra armor up front. His large helmet covered his whole head and snout. The wings extruded from both sides, reminiscent of Athene-A’s helmet. “Well, don’t you look as though you have some place to go,” Zeusticus mocked. “Get on, and try not to fall off,” Hermes teased back. “Why don’t you just levitate in, and strike?” “Takes too much energy to fly and fight at the same time. This way we have our full attention on the battle. Everyone listen! Be at your respective staging areas in fifteen minutes.” Zeusticus easily floated up and into the saddle. Soon, they were airborne and winding through valleys, as not to be detected until the last possible moment. Flying horses were laden with extra soldiers to be dropped off near the area of attack. Hermes, himself, had a dozen beings strapped to his back. He was still able to maneuver with ease. “Coming up on the ground assault staging area,” Athene-A said through a scratchy comm.” “Understood, proceed,” came from many voices. Atlanteans began jumping off the flying horses and floated to the ground to a rise near the Destroyer’s last known position. Jay thought the scene looked like paratroopers jumping out of planes. The other species would hop off as the horses landed, running, and then would take off.

“Athene-A, we may have a problem,” Zeusticus said, as Hermes swung around a ridge. “What problem?” “I see hundreds of Cousins camped out on our side of the ridge.” “Are they hypnotized?” “They are watching us, no, they don’t appear to be hostile.” “We’ll keep an eye on them, try not to hurt them, Zeusticus.” “I have no intention.” The air assault group circled low until the ground assault group got organized. Zeusticus gave the signal, sending a wave of horse and Atlantean up and over the ridge. What they saw, stunned them for a few seconds, until Zeusticus broke the still, “Same plan, just concentrate on one target at a time.”

Chapter Fifteen: Giants The Giants had made their way out of the spatial field, and now there was a lot more of them than they ed for. The four originals were moving in the same direction. Zeusticus gave orders to leave Rhe-A, Cronus and the other Atlanteans alone, until they had no other choice. Zeusticus opened with a concentrated attack on the Uranus male creature. His size was well over fifty feet, and he looked as though he was moving toward Chrysalis. A squadron of winged creatures dove in from above, firing every weapon they had. The machines were functioning well, as lightning bolt and spatial distortions slowed him down. He turned to the sky with his arm up to protect himself, but a barrage of fire, lightning, and particle beam severed his arm. It fell to the ground like a forest tree. Uranus dropped to a knee as the creature, known as Gai-A, moved in to swat flying creatures away. She made with a few, sending them spiraling out of control. “Shuttle team, move in, we have their attention,” Zeusticus commanded over his comm. He then continued to fire his arm weapon of spatial lightning at the closest target, while Hermes ducked and dodged slow moving giant arms and hands. “Understood,” Poseidon said. The shuttle exploded out of the sea and raced to the downed shuttles. Hades, and his team, set up instruments and comm units on top of a high mountain, overseeing the battle. “Attack team Alpha, this is Mount Olympus, we are monitoring, all is as planned.” “Understood, Mount Olympus, please inform us of any advantage,” Zeusticus said through the noise of explosions.” “Understood,” Hades said, while manipulating the spectral 3-D graphic in front and to the sides of him. His ten-person team scrambled about to keep up with him. Hermes was coming around for another , when the other two, known as Nyx-A and Erebus, all put their bodies over Uranus and took blow after blow. After a barrage and the dust slightly cleared, the Giants stood up to reveal the Uranus creature fully healed, and back to swatting at the flies.

Poseidon ran, pushing his people along. They got to the Alpha shuttle on the ridge. Hephaestus was carrying the modified power packs, and quickly began installing them, while the others stood guard. Poseidon tied into the main satellite to help him survey the area. He saw no sign of any giants or monsters. “Hephaestus get this shuttle up and running, we’re going for the other,” Poseidon confidently said. “Understood,” he said as he used a horn to peel off a . The smaller group moved down the ridge as stealthily as possible. Still no sign of building sized bipeds as they got closer to the shuttle and the disruptive pool of lava. Poseidon stood guard, watching the others move around the shuttle. “Poseidon, we have a problem,” Demeter said, “The agoam crystals have been removed.” “What?” He blurted, picking up his three-pronged spear, and went to see for himself. “Curious,” she said, “they’ve been mechanically removed, not ripped out.” “Um, can it still function with our conventional power source?” “Affirmative.” “Let’s get it back home, we can figure out what happened later.” “Yes, Sir.” “Sir! We have another problem,” Dionysus said from the lava side of the craft. When Poseidon arrived, the lava was whirl pooling dramatically, it splashed, and then spewed upward, followed by the most hideous beast he could’ve imagined. A very large humanoid rose slowly out of the sulphur pit. It’s upper body was Atlantean, with a head full of black hair, and eyes the color of the lava pit. Male in nature, it howled through a large mouth with saber-like teeth. It swung its arms to reveal another rows of arms that resemble a dragon’s necks, they all had

dragon heads at the end. Poseidon thought to himself, these creatures are worse than Aztek-Alon’s abominations. It slithered out of the pit on the lower half of a snakes body covered in thousands of small wings. The small wings made a loud humming noise to the point of madness. “Demeter, how much longer?” “Ten minutes.” “You have five,” he yelled. She smiled, and said quietly, “I knew you’d say that.” While continuing to reroute the power source. “Firing line, on me,” Poseidon bellowed, stepping away from the shuttle to face the beast. The group lined up shoulder to shoulder and began firing spatial electrical charges at once. The monster recoiled, and then tried to advance, fire blew out of the dragon heads. It advanced on the shielded Atlanteans, but the incoming fire drove it back. It sank back into the lava, the Atlanteans stopped and listened. Dionysus used a modified handheld and took readings. An eruption of lava jetted into the air, along with the monster. It launched itself toward them. Poseidon raised the trident type weapon and held the charge. The three barbed tips began to glow white hot. The creature screamed down on them with a maniac type fury. He released the charge. The blast rocked the area, and blew a huge hole in the creatures chest, knocking it back onto the lava beach. It flopped around, shooting particle beams out of its eyes. It squirmed and twitched, and then lay still. The group approached slowly and watched as the melted flesh began healing itself. “We need to leave! Everyone, into the shuttles,” Poseidon ordered, backing away. “Why?” Dionysus asked. “Because we can’t physically kill this thing in our universe, now move.” Demeter was powering up the shuttle, while everyone filed in. The creature flopped about and got up; it charged the shuttle as it blasted away.

Rhe-A and Cronus were smaller than the four originals, and moved about close together. Zeusticus circled them, they made no attempt to strike out at him. He felt them reaching out, mentally. They had regained some of their former humanity. He might be able to use this information. “Zeusticus, the shuttles are airborne,” Hades said, in his ear. “Understood, everyone, fall back to the staging area. We are just wasting energy, here.” The attack was halted, injured and dead were collected, and all moved toward the open area on the other side of the mountain. The airborne units assisted the ground units out of the area.

The assembly point was near the base of the mountain. Athene-A approached Zeusticus, Hades, and Poseidon. She took off her helmet and threw it to the ground. “What’s it take to kill these things,” she asked rhetorically. “What did we sacrifice for?” Hades stepped forward, his usual methodically short black combed hair, was disheveled. “We gained a great amount of information. It is going to take time to evaluate.” “Meanwhile, we lose more people, ground and sea,” Athene-A said, pacing back and forth trying to calm herself. “We need more information,” Poseidon interjected, “I fought first hand a creature that would not die. We must know more before we lose more.” “I believe if we attack, using everything we have on one isolated target, I’m sure-” Athene-A stopped, feeling the presence, just as the others did. She turned back toward the mountain base to see hundreds of Cousins slowly moving toward her. The Atlantean soldiers surprisingly gave way to a small group, bravely, but cautiously, moving toward the group of Gods that looked in charge.

One obviously scared human knelt in front of Athene-A, Hades, Poseidon, and Zeusticus. He wore an animal skin tunic and leather sandals. His dark matted hair hung down as he looked at the ground. “Gods of our Fathers,” he said, the translator worked without a stutter. “We have lost many kin to the Titan Demons. We wish to help combat them.” “Go home little ones, we’ll defeat the...Titans,” Athene-A said, completely in control of herself, as gently as she could. She looked at Zeusticus. “What? Titan is easier to explain than Destroyer.” Zeusticus stepped up close to the trembling man, and knelt. “Maybe there is something you can help us with. We would like you to watch them and tell us what you think they are doing.” “But you are Gods, can’t you watch, we want to fight.” Zeusticus boomed with laughter. “You see things differently. I would like to see things as simply as you, but, if you want to help, this is how.” The man looked back at his small group. “Yes, we will watch. What do we call you, God of lightning and thunder?” Zeusticus smiled, catching Athene-A’s attention on how his ego was growing. “Zeusticus.” The man tried times to pronounce it, but made unintelligible sounds. “Zeus will be fine. Now, I will send people you can give your reports to. Go tell the others.” “Yes, almighty Zeus.” He backed away and chatted with the others, before running back to the larger crowd. “Do you think that wise, Brother,” Poseidon said. Getting up, Zeus said, “I’m hoping it will keep them out of harm’s way. Alright, assemble the task force for our return to Chrysalis, so we can evaluate what happened today.” The troops started heading back to Chrysalis on preplanned routes, while

Zeusticus stood by and watched the Cousins wave their hands in a vigorous animated way, while talking to each other. Soon, the whole band took off in all directions.

They sat around the battle table shuffling data chips and organizing their information. Zeusticus brought the group to order. “Aphrodite-Pandemos could you bring an organized brilliance to our situation?” She stood up confidently. “I call this Council meeting to order. From the preliminary results, we did significant damage to the ‘Titans’. We just couldn’t put out enough energy to completely destroy them. Our readings indicate that every cell, maybe even down to the atom, has a regenerative property. We would literally have to destroy, or isolate every cell from every one of them. The possibility of actually killing, or destroying them, near impossible.” “Hades, what kind of technology are they using? Can we duplicate it, or reverse engineer?” Zeusticus asked. “From the continuous readings, I detected very little technology. They wear very little for personal protection, no weapon systems, other than their physical size and unstoppable regeneration. The only thing I could pick up, was the spatial anomaly origins, which is deep inside the lava pit. It may contain the Destroyer tech that controls the rift. The missing agoam crystals were detected inside the Titans that were outside the spatial dome. There is a correlation between agoam crystals and negation of our space and time. I believe it’s the crystals that allow them to exist permanently in our universe. Remove the crystals and hypothetically speaking, return them back to their previous state.” “Some good news,” Zeusticus mumbled. “Let’s work on that strategy, it may also kill them.” “May I remind you, almighty Zeus,” Apollo sarcastically said, using the Cousin’s name for him, “some of these Titans are our friends and family.” He scowled. “Of course, we are going to try to save them, but if we can’t, then sacrifices will have to be made.”

“That’s not acceptable,” Athene-A blurted out. “I know you felt it, too, Zeusticus,” Hermes’s gravelly voice penetrated the Council chambers, “Cronus and Rhe-A, they were trying to reach out to us.” “We’ll do everything we can to recover our people. Now, we have information to stop them, one is to remove the crystals, and find a way to close the rift. AtheneA, let me know what you come up with, dismissed.” She didn’t say anything, and walked away. “Apollo,” Zeusticus said, stopping him in his tracks, “How many casualties?” “Six dead, fifty-three wounded.” “How many Atlanteans?” Apollo gave him a strange look. “They were all Atlanteans.” He turned his back and left. He caught up with Athene-A a short distance from the chamber. “How long are we going to let this go?” Apollo quietly asked her. “Until there’s a no-confidence vote, and that won’t happen as long as we’re at war. Come, let’s find a solution, other than annihilation.”

Several weeks ed, the preparation for another attack was in its final stages. Athene-A was explaining to Zeusticus about the location of the agoam crystals. “They are embedded in the base of the skull. It won’t be easy to get to them. Hades has more on the rift. It’s becoming something of an obsession.” “I find it very interesting,” he began calmly, “I am certain the rift, or tear, is between two universes, maybe more. I hypothesize that agoam crystals are powering the technology to hold it open. If I can get a closer look, I may be able to shut it down.” “Why can’t we just use well placed detonators?” Zeusticus said, trying to speed the conversation with his brother along. “Brother, why are you always so eager to blow something up? If you do, it could

trigger a chain reaction, destroying both universes.” “Oh...very well. Let’s see if we can get you close.” “We have several new reports coming in, the satellites provide very little information. It seems our little friends are more resourceful than we give them credit. They report the Titans are carving out chunks of mountain and clearing a foundation,” Artemis informed. “Are they building a sanctuary?” “More like a fortress.” “Where?” Zeusticus asked, moving to the battle table. “Coordinates put it somewhere around...here.” She pointed it out. “Mount Orthys.” “Orthys?” “Cousins named it. They are much more creative at that than we are. We would’ve just given it a number.” Apollo smiled. “We must attack soon, or we will lose all advantages.” “Agreed,” Poseidon chimed in. Athene-A stood stoically and listened to the plan. She had already made up her mind to try diplomacy, even if it wasn’t sanctioned. She slipped out, unnoticed, donned on her armor, enlisted the help of a Pegasus, and made her way toward the Titans.

The brown and white paint splashed, colored Pegasus, lightly touched down near the tribe of Cousins. The ragged, dirty faced, group, approached and kneeled. “Rise, little ones,” the giant said, as if talking to children. “Goddess Athena, we have done as you requested. May we attack now?”

“No, I require more peaceful efforts. I need you to locate this Titan-” She raised her hand palm up, and a 3-D image of Rhe-A appeared. The group kneeled again. “I want you to Rhe-A and tell her to meet me here as soon as possible. Now go.” They rose, bowed, and then ran.

Athene-A sat on a rock and watched as the yellow sun rose over a semi-barren, mountainous landscape. Jay could feel her longing for a peaceful time, one that included John. She sensed Rhe-A long before she felt the impact tremors. She took a deep breath to gather her mental defenses, put her winged helmet on, and stood up. She was stowing her weapon on her back when the Cousins came running at their full speed. Rhe-A topped the ridge. “We convinced the Titan,” Lot said, out of breath, “to come...that it wasn’t a trap. When do we attack, Goddess?” “You did well, my little ones, but this Titan is special. Her name is Rhe-A, and she is by all s, my sister.” “She was once an Olympian Goddess?” “Yes, she is not to be harmed. I am going to try to bring peace to all our peoples.” For their help, she noticed all of them had some kind of unhealed wound, or unset broken bone partially healed. She reached into her belt, brought out a handheld, and ran it over them. Pulled out a spray and ran it over the wounds, which began to heal quickly. “There, thank you. Now, go over there and stay out of the way.” They looked astonished as they rubbed the missing wounds, while they walked away. Rhe-A stopped on Athene-A’s side of the rocky ridge in a badly sewn bundle of fur, sparsely covering her. She was thirty feet tall, dirty and haunted. Athene-A was ready for betrayal, until she saw the intelligence in her eyes. Rhe-A knelt near her. Athene-A levitated herself up to eye level, and hovered.

“Rhe-A? Do you know me?” “Of course, Athene-A, you are one of my oldest friends.” Athene-A was a little surprised at her frankness, but she shouldn’t have been. “How are you?” “I am miserable, I miss my friends, my home. The things they’ve made me do...” “Come back with me.” “I can’t. The pull is too much. I only have a short time before I can no longer block them.” “Our last results yielded a lot of information.” “Do not let them control this world. Do whatever you have to do. Those first four, Gai-A, Uranus, Nyx-A, and Erebus, are more Destroyer than Atlantean. They are lost. Since the insertion of agoam crystals, Cronus, Hyperion, Thei-A, Themis, Maemosyne, and I, have regained most of our consciousness. Although, we can’t break free of their influence. They are using Cousins to help them build a stronghold, where the special children are to be raised.” “How can we defeat them?” “I don’t know. You must hurry, Typhon and Echidna are building an army of monsters.” Rhe-A stopped; her eyes focused on something far away. “I must go. I will help if I can. Do what you have to do, kill us if you must. May the Great Creator have mercy on us.” It pained Jay to see Rhe-A this way, and explained some of why she was the way she is. He could feel the pain in Athene-A’s heart. The Titan stood up in a trance and marched back in the direction she had come. Athene-A floated back to the ground. She told the Cousins to continue with their observation instructions, and left.

“You had no authorization to approach the enemy.” Zeusticus ranted, as Her-A

stood nearby. “I found out more in a few minutes, then you did in a battle,” Athene-A defiantly spoke back. “You may have compromised our security.” “Athene-A,” Her-A said, trying to defuse the situation. “My husband is just bringing to light the serious breach of security you have imposed.” “I revealed nothing that wasn’t already known.” Zeusticus calmed down with the intervention. “What did you find out?” “Rhe-A, Cronus, and the others, are now conscious of who they are. They just can’t break the bond the original Titans have on them. Rhe-A has offered to help and will solicit the help of the others. Our little Cousins have discovered the exact location of a massive fortress being built on Mt. Orthys; it’s located-here.” She pointed at the battle table. “We were not supposed to put them in harm’s way, we are supposed to protect them,” Zeusticus said with ion, drawing a noticeable wry look from Her-A. “The ones that can resist the Titan call are quite capable of observing, and staying out of the way. The spatial rift interferes with our instruments making their help incalculable.” Zeusticus looked down, then away. “I believe we need a forward observation base, until then, see that they keep their distance from the Titans.” “You can’t be serious,” Her-A interjected. Athene-A butted in. “They are strong and smart; we can trust them. They have just as much at stake as we do. They are being enslaved to build the fortress, much like Aztek-Alon did, not to mention a food source. It’s only our God-like reputation that keeps them from attacking, anyway.” “Very well, but keep me posted.” “You can’t be serious, Husband, this goes against all our protocols,” Her-A

angrily put her hands on the table and stared at him. Zeusticus stared back for a few seconds, and then turned to Athene, and threateningly said. “Athene-A, I mean it, keep me informed, or I will petition the Council to have you placed back into the TSD.” She gave him a curt nod, gave Her-A victory glance and left.

“How goes the project?” Athene-A asked, as she stepped into the planning room. She squeezed between Aphrodite-Ourani-A and Hephaestus. The two had been working on the plans for the outpost near Mt. Orthys. “Very well,” Hephaestus said, as Aphrodite looked away. Athene-A thought her shyness was almost painful, quite the opposite of her sister. “When can we start construction?” “We do have problems to overcome; not enough agoam crystals, and personnel. That is if you want it done within the next two-hundred and fifty years.” “So, you recommend we scavenge more crystals and use the indigenous population,” she said, more to herself than to the others. “We could ask them.” “I don’t like it, but we’ll bring it before the Council.”

Athene-A thought it surprisingly easy to get Council approval. Zeusticus vehemently opposed, to his chagrin, it was Her-A, who cast the deciding vote. Athene-A was very suspicious of her agenda. Cousins, along with other species, were all too eager to help the Gods, construction began immediately. The Cousins dubbed it, Olympus. In the meantime, Zeusticus struck at the Titan outpost, constantly slowing their progress. Many raids were sent to destroy the building, and rescue human slaves.

They would be united with family, and then relocated as far away from the rift influence as possible. The attacks did little more than stall the inevitable. A large village cropped up near the base of the enemy stronghold, where little concern was given to the humans and other species. When they couldn’t work anymore, they were eaten, and then more would take their place. The other species soon became less and less. The vast majority was now Cousin. Months would drag on as Olympus took shape. The Cousins, and others, were more than eager to help, but unlike their counterparts, the Atlanteans would feed, clothe, and house their help. The Council approved teaching the hunter-gathers farming and domestication of certain animals. They took to it quickly, which worried some of the Council . Zeusticus was now always at Mt. Olympus, he and his wife, Her-A, lived comfortably in a portable tent. He was furious that the building was taking so long. He wanted to attack, now. His three-phase plan included attacking the stronghold, the Titans, and the rift opening, at the same time. As more months went by, the Cousins had built a large community in order to supply the Atlanteans with what they needed, while working closely together. The God worship got worse with every witness of a technological use. Hesti-A showed patience and kindness, when teaching them how to make a home out of what they had, or could make. Demeter showed even more patience and understanding while toiling in the soil. The fields began to produce quickly in the fertile valley. Artemis helped them perfect their hunting and tracking skills. She was in the field gathering data more than she was planning for a battle. Apollo saw to their health, while studying the Titans, and conspiring with Athene-A. The population was swelling, while new recruits came in as the recued were shipped out. The mountain top was nearing completion on the first phase of the outpost-fortress. Hades and Hephaestus designed the fort to float well above the shaved mountain top through anti-gravity generators and stabilizers. They were to begin the second phase, when the attack came. Cousins lit warning fires in the early morning mist, while the others abandoned their community and ran toward the next valley. Sensors were limited and the attack could be measured in impact tremors. The Titans were coming down the

valley in a frontal assault. They had even more hideous monsters in the lead. Captured Cyclops had been transfigured into hill sized one-eyed, pot bellied tanks. Smaller, faster creatures, flew, or ran, toward the base of the mountain. Zeusticus was watching from high, assessing the situation. He noticed three Coordinators, or Generals, giving orders. These monsters were very large with dozens of arms and hands protruding from all over their bodies. The whole scene reminded Zeusticus and Athene-A of Aztek-Alon’s creatures-in another war. Titans, Uranus, Hyperion, Erebus, Iapetus, and many other new Titans, were bringing up the rear. He didn’t see Rhe-A, Thei-A, and a lot of others could not be seen. He scanned the area looking for another attack. He saw none and deduced Uranus was keeping them in reserve, or didn’t trust them. Poseidon was doing under water research on the spatial field when he got the scratchy communication about the attack. As he did, the alarms went off, signaling that a large creature was moving in his direction. He barely got the shuttle out of the water before the monster, Typhon, lunged after him. An exceptionally large Titan, disguised as a rock, unfolded out of the water and grabbed the shuttle. “Oceanus,” spitting the name out. He fired on the hand, severing enough fingers to escape. Echidna, with groups of young monsters pursued the shuttle. Its new configuration of weapons zapped flying reptilian creatures as they came into range. There were too many, and he was slowly driven back down toward the sea. His expert skills with currents and hydrology, allowed deception enough for him and his crew to escape unscathed. Lightning reached out and cracked the sound barrier, while blasting the incoming boulders into large rocks. Zeusticus continued his defense with his mind, and whatever weapons he could find, in order to destroy the building size rocks before they crashed into his mountain creation. He noticed that they were not using much technology. The only thing he could see, was the Titans had dragon scale armor on them that looked like a tunic that stopped just above the knee. It had many shades of blues and blacks, as if made in a hurry. “Athene-A, what are those?” Zeusticus asked over the crackling comm. “Rhe-A called them, Hekatonkheires, something like shock troops.” “Take a group and go left, I’ll go right. We will attack the Titans behind their line of defense, maybe, it will draw the others away.”

“You want us to abandon the base?” “The base is already lost. We need to inflict as much damage as possible, so they’ll think twice before attacking again. Now, move out.” He leaped from a Pegasus onto Hermes, and gave quick directions. Athene-A searched for a target, while noticing most of the possessed Atlanteans were not present. Uranus and Erebus were guiding the specialized children, who were now two-thirds the size of their forebears. Athene-A only recognized a few of them from Rhe-A’s mind. Koios, who stayed close to a female called, Phoebe. Tethys, Crius, and a few others she had no name for. All typical Titan humanoids, except a very small and young one, she thought could be, Atlas. She could sense the potential strength in the smaller one, and now may be their only chance to avoid a future Destroyer. Athene-A relayed her observations, that the Titans preferred close combat, ripping and tearing, rather than projectile weapons. Their quick regenerating properties showed them not to fear getting hit. Athene-A conveyed her intentions, and the squadron swooped in. Atlas was away from the group when he looked up to see dozens of Pegasi diving in on him. He had little time to react. He, and Athene-A locked eyes as a borage of fire power came his way. Athene-A’s spear tore through him first as the others shredded him down to pebble sized fleshy parts. Athene-A sent her results to Zeusticus, who, immediately began organizing squadrons to focus on one target at a time. Cousins watched from a mountain ridge at the spectacle. Fire and lightning rang out over the valley. Dark clouds gathered, blocking out the sun. It was like bees fighting off a bear. Many wanted to the fight, but Lot, held them back, saying it was not their time. Several Titans had made it to the summit, dismantling the Olympian base, one massive rock at a time. Some, well placed shots sent Titan after Titan tumbling down the mountain side. The concentration of fire, along with, relentless pursuit, finally caused the Titans to begin a fighting retreat. They retreated cautiously, taking as much of their comrades body parts as possible.

Zeusticus stood on the edge of the flat mountain top looking inward at the devastation. Athene-A, and the rest of the Council , strolled around trying to shake off the shock of the attack. “It will take years to rebuild,” Zeusticus said, sensing Athene-A’s approach. His moral was down, kicking a stone in frustration. “Yes, but we learned something.” “What, how we can be defeated.” “No, that we can defeat them, but only if we stay together, fight together.” Her-A moved in, sensing she was losing influence to Athene-A. “My husband, you were magnificent.” He began to cheer up. “We also learned,” Athene-A continued, ignoring Her-A, “that they attacked too soon. They are in need of more agoam crystals. We have not progressed far enough for their use in our fortress. There were none here.” “We should continue our attacks, in order to slow them down,” Zeusticus demanded.

A quiet year ed before Olympus could be powered up. The city-sized outpost floated a thousand feet higher than the smoothed surface of the mountain top itself, the city glistened with white stone walls, and a decorative marble polished floor. Jay thought the pillars and columns made it looked more like an ancient Greek tourist attraction, than a battle station. Fighting between the two groups had gone on sporadically over the year. Light skirmishes took place away from Olympus. Rhe-A reported to Athene-A as much as possible. There was dissention among the Destroyers on who was better to lead, and what they were trying to accomplish. Rhe-A and Cronus were sewing as many seeds of dissention as possible, without being punished. Several others had ed them. Some original Titans, others, the children of the Titans. The enemy fortress was still not complete without more agoam crystals. Uranus

made the decision to attack Mt Olympus against many protests. He threatened to send the dissenters back through the spatial field, to another dimension if they didn’t comply. The attack was set for morning. They marched all night and were poised to attack, when the first incoming missiles struck. The Titans were caught completely off guard, and were systematically being blown apart by the Olympian fortress. Atlas, who was now almost the size of Cronus, levied his strategic mindset and saved them from utter devastation. They retreated as quickly as they had arrived. The Atlanteans pursued with a relentless borage. Aphrodite-Pandemos was sensing victory as she blazed in a circular pattern near Uranus, but she got too close to the limping Titan. He reached out and grabbed her, cutting the Pegasus in half, with one quick motion. He tossed her into his mouth and down his throat. The attack team was stunned, and were infuriated when Zeusticus called them back. They wanted revenge.

“We didn’t need to incur any more casualties, we had won,” Zeusticus roared. “But we could’ve finished them,” Poseidon roared back. “You know that’s impossible at the moment, besides, I have reliable information from Athene-A that there’s dissention in their ranks. Cronus is planning a coup with several other Atlanteans.” “Why wasn’t I informed?” “I just found out before the attack. Brother, we need to be patient this time.” “I need to be kept up to date. Come, Apollo, we need to make plans, in case the coupe fails.” “How are we going to get close enough?” Apollo asked. “We can use the sea and cloak, with a few modifications.” “Let’s see what you’ve got.” Apollo said, happy to be leaving the situation.

Chapter Sixteen: Deception Rhe-A and Cronus watched, as what was left of the attack force, came limping back. Uranus still didn’t trust them enough to bring them to the fight. Which was fine with them. They gathered around the base of the mountain where Cousins worked mindlessly to build a fortress. A Cousin would get to close and be scooped up and eaten so the fresh DNA would complete the healing process. Rhe-A felt sick every time she witnessed this. She had not eaten a Cousin since she became self aware. Cronus was different, however, he tried to gain trust by blending in. “I warned you not to attack their base without weapons,” Cronus barked, as Uranus heavily sat down, and began to chew. Cronus’s act was so convincing, Rhe-A was beginning to doubt his humanity. Uranus got up, and with large space black eyes, stared down at Cronus. He yelled for Brontes. The massive giant Cyclops rumbled forward, missing an arm, “Gather Steropes and Arges, and meet me at Gateway.” “Yes, my God.” “Wait, bring the Hekatonkheires, also.” “Briares, Cottus, and Gyges?” “Yes, you brainless slug, now!” “What are you going to do?” Gai-A suspiciously asked. “They failed me. I am returning them to Tartarus.” “But that would be torture for them, death would be preferable. I created them with great care. They don’t deserve this because of your failings.” Gai-A’s defiance didn’t go unnoticed. Uranus reared back and pounded Gai-A to the ground, and kept pounding. After a few moments of watching the spectacle. Cronus stepped forward. “My Creator, I have some ideas I would like to discuss with you.”

He stopped, blood dripping from his fist. “Very well, tell me on the way to Gateway.” Gai-A spied the act of Cronus, and gave him a thankful look through one good eye. Jay looked over the spatial rip with fascination. The lava wasn’t hot, he determined it wasn’t lava. It was the accumulation of photons, tetryons, and many other spatial bonding properties. He watched intently as Uranus gave orders. “Hyperion, Iapetus, Crius, bring them.” They pushed the Hekatonkheires and Cyclops into the pool, letting Uranus led the way. “We need to get in there,” Rhe-A said to Cronus and Maemosyne. “I think Hyperion has delved too far into the Destroyer’s darkness. I don’t think he can be trusted,” Maemosyne whispered. “Agreed,” Rhe-A said. She looked at Cronus critically in the distance, and then looked away.

Months slipped by, as Typhon and Enchidn-A repopulated the monster population. They weren’t happy about losing so many of their children, but would never defy their leader. Meanwhile, Uranus became irritable and insecure, because the Atlanteans had not counter attacked like they had in the past. He felt he knew these annoying pests, but they kept proving resilient. He made his plans known to assault the strong hold again. The need for agoam crystals was essential for his plan.

Gai-A quietly slipped up behind Cronus and Rhe-A. “You sound-dissatisfied,” They were surprised, but didn’t show it. They looked down. “We are observing,” Rhe-A responded, not making eye .

“Several of his experiments required observation, even the failures,” she commented skeptically. “My children should not have to pay for his mistakes.” “Cronus looked up. “Perhaps his failures are his own making.” “What are you suggesting, half-one?” Gai-A purred, as she circled the two. “Someone else should be conducting the experiment.” “Spoken like a true Destroyer.” She smiled a bruised face, and walked away. “How can we get inside?” Rhe-A quietly asked. “I believe the agoam crystal he imbedded in us will allow access,” Cronus methodically said. “We just have to get ed Typhon.” “I have a plan,” Rhe-A said, and then walked away.

The small humans knelt at the sight of Athene-A and Rhe-A conversing in the light of the full moon. Athene-A pulled away a hand from a large finger, and nodded in understanding of the situation. She had learned more about the Destroyers than they had in thousands of years. The detachment was left here to monitor the Atlanteans left behind. They had thwarted several of their efforts, and the Destroyers wanted to know how. But this group was of lower standing in what was called, ‘The Common.’ Their orders were only to monitor and report, but communication had been sparse since the alien ship departed the solar system. They had over reached their authorities, and were interacting with their experiments. The rift was going to destroying them all, if they couldn’t control it, or close it. Agoam crystals were needed at all costs.

Gai-A moved silently through the darkness. The foot of the mountain cast a dark shadow from the moon. Cronus was there, he only noticed her when she was next to him. “Your punctuality is notable,” she remarked, floating around him, staring into his

eyes. “I am eager for a change,” Cronus mechanically said. “As am I.” She brought out a crescent shaped weapon, the blade glistened in the reflection of her scaled armor. “I understood that we, half-ones, were not to have weapons.” “Then the surprise will be all the better.” “When shall I conduct the experiment?” “During regeneration is when he is at his weakest.” Her melancholy voice was strange to Cronus, against the seriousness of the situation. “Soon, then?” “Yes, soon.” She turned and disappeared into the shadows. Behind some rocks nearby, Maemosyne overheard the deception, she smiled and slinked away.

“Approach half-one,” Uranus boomed from his stone throne at the foot of Mt. Orthys. He took time out of his busy schedule of torturing and thrashing the human Cousins, to recognize Maemosyne. “Thank you for addressing my concerns,” she said, without looking up. “I have information that might interest you.” “Go on.” “This information is valuable to me,” she played. Uranus rose in anger, but stopped himself. “I could just squeeze it out of you.” “But then the information may not be accurate,” she humbly replied.

“How valuable?” “I want to sit at your side.” His laugh boomed across the valley, something not commonly heard. “Very well, but I will be the judge of its value.”

Hyperion approached Uranus and knelt. “Lord, the attack has begun.” “Implement battle plan.” He left as quickly as he had come. The attack-for a diversion from the Atlanteans, was far more ferocious than Uranus expected, but the defenses mostly held. He watched from his enormous stone throne, as a blast struck at his feet. He stood up and walked toward the chaos. Cronus moved slowly toward the throne. When he reached for the agoam crystal flint sickle-it was not there. “Looking for this?” Uranus said, without turning around, and holding up the weapon. He held the weapon in front of him, iring its simplicity. The surprise and betrayal was evident on Cronus’s face. “Made from raw elements of this planet, common, with a hint of agoam crystal, almost undetectable. Your insolence will be repaid with eternal experimentation.” Cronus blazed with anger, fear, rage, and loss of conscious thought-he attacked. Uranus expected that, too, and quickly turned and sliced Cronus across the chest. He screamed and went down on one knee, thick liquid oozed down his chest. Uranus, then raised the weapon over his head, and started his downward thrust, when an explosion detonated at his feet. He flew forward, over the top of Cronus, the summersault landed him on his back. Uranus was slowly rolling over the large body, crushing smaller humans, who were scrambling for safety. Cronus took advantage of his smaller size and agility, and was up in seconds. He raced toward the giant tyrant. The impact was deafening as they both collided and went down hard, shaking the ground and kicking up columns of dirt. Cronus pounded Uranus, while trying to take the sickle away, but Uranus kicked him off, losing the sickle in the process. They wrestled down the valley. Uranus was not skilled in hand-to-hand combat,

Cronus took advantage, and continued his assault. Their size and destructive impacts diverted rivers and turned forests into splinters, until finally they faced each other on the beach of the sea. Uranus was badly beaten and slow to heal, but Cronus was worse, and on one knee. Gai-A put her hand up to block the rock and dirt from the collision. The two Titans rolled and tore at each other, no longer interested in the weapon. Gai-A spied it on the ground, and went to retrieve it. Before she got to it, Mnemosyne, stood over it. Gai-A gave her a warning look, as the others gathered around. Mnemosyne reached down and picked it up. Looking around indecisively, she quickly weighed her options, and said, “We must help Cronus.” She held out the weapon to Gai-A. “Wise choice, half-one,” Gai-A said, taking the weapon, and followed the fight.

Cronus was struggling to breath. Uranus was ankle deep in water when a gravelly laugh echoed through the area. “This was enlightening, but bothersome. I believe it is time to terminate this experiment.” He started toward him. Cronus was indecisive. He felt something brush his consciousness and glanced to his right, just in time to see the sickle flying in his direction. With one smooth motion he caught the weapon out of the air and with a graceful upward motion, cut Uranus from groin to neck. The giant humanoid tried to hold in his entrails, but it was no use. He staggered backward, further into the sea. Hundreds of Cousins cheered from the nearby cliffs as the morning sun grew brighter. Uranus, without bending a knee, fell back, creating a title wave of mud and water. As the water rushed back in, it created a swirl of dark foaming sludge. Within minutes, a person could be seen struggling in the water. She was covered in slime, but managed to elevate herself above the waves. The combat ready Atlanteans quickly swooped into action. “Pandemos,” came her sister’s voice, diving in to the calamity. Ourani-A got in close and, holding out a hand to scoop her up out of the churning, foamy water. She quickly cleared her head from the disorientation, while they rapidly

disappeared into the sunrise. Cronus waded out of the sea, dragging Uranus’s body. He dropped him on the shore and looked at the group and said, “Take him to Gateway.” Atlas looked back and forth at Hyperion, Erebus, and Gai-A, he saw no dissension from them, and then did as told.

Poseidon lifted the cloaked shuttle out of the water and raced toward Tartarus. He opened fire on the spatial rip. Typhon exploded out of its midst. The shuttle decloaked and fired again, ripping off several wings and dragon arms. Typhon screamed and attacked. Poseidon wiped the shuttle around and raced away just above the ground, with an angry monster in tow. Hades gave the signal. He, along with Hesti-A, Apollo, and Dionysus, moved to the edge of the lava pool. They engaged heir modified agoam crystal cloaking devices. Hades moved around the pool with his handheld, then motioned to move forward. He stepped into the lava illusion, and proceeded down large stone steps. After a few minutes of disorientation, the group came to a huge door. Hades studied the locking mechanism, he touched it to get a better understanding, the door cracked open. An invisible ripple waved ed them, distorting the space around them, as if walking under water. They slowly moved inside. The wavy multi-colored opening allowed them access. The time-space distortion ceased abruptly as they moved inside. They surrounded a podium and examined the crystal controls. Hades ran his handheld over it, while the other two moved down a massive tunnel, starring, taking readings, and studying. The tunnel opened to a cavern as large as Chrysalis. Jay thought the architecture was familiar Atlantean, or ancient Greek, in design. Hades marveled and adjusted his black winged helmet as readings ed through his brain. “Remarkable, we ed through the dimensional rift. We are on Earth, but in another universe, perhaps, even a different time.” “AAGH!” Hesti-A echoed down the hall, while jumping back from the large open doorway. “Titan monsters!”

The rest rushed to her side, to look into the open door. It held the Hekatonkheirs and Cyclops. They pounded silently from the inside against an invisible force field, all the while, silently screaming as if in pain. “Come,” Hades said, “we don’t have much time.” They found another large open-air archway, and stepped out into an open, barren courtyard. The smell of sulfur was heavy in the air. The lava color covered the sky. Volcanoes could be seen smoldering in the far distance. The bright orange tint and heat drove them back inside. “Let’s get back, the handheld should have recorded all the information. Our ride should be close.” Hesti-A ed back by the monsters on the way out and gazed in. They looked beaten, demoralized, and hopeless. One looked at her, and sadly looked away. She no longer felt fear of them, but pity. When they emerged from the pool, Typhon had limbs laying all around. Poseidon was darting in and out with the shuttle. They levitated quickly as he ducked the shuttle around, and scooped them up.

Cronus knelt by Uranus on the edge of the rift. Rhe-A watched with fascination. “You are as foolish as your companions.” Uranus opened his black eyes, and grabbed Cronus and put his face close to his. “You, half-one, are the fool. Your emotions will weaken and betray you, just watch.” Uranus stared into Cronus’s eyes. Cronus couldn’t turn away as he looked into the blackness of space. A sparkle of light teased him as he struggled for control of his sanity. “Beware, half-one, fore you will suffer the same betrayal as I, and it will come from your own kind. This I have foreseen.” Rhe-A noticed a change in Cronus’s demeanor. He stood, and then kicked Uranus into the rift. “Make sure he is detained.” He walked around the pit, looking at the Titans. “Anyone wish to contest my authority?” He ed by Rhe-A, who smiled, but as soon as she saw the same black blood

eyes of Uranus, the smile faded. “Good, here we are Gods, we don’t have to be cruel. The humans will do what we ask more readily if we show concern for them. Less energy will have to be wasted on their control. Now, curb your psyonics and make them appreciate serving Gods.” They nodded in comprehension. “Now, we must continue to build the communication and rift expansion module on Mt. Orthys.” Rhe-A’s heart dropped, as she looked around at only a few disappointed faces.

“Rhe-A reports that Cronus is no longer with us. He has delved too deep into the darkness. He can’t be trusted,” Athene-A said to the Council, while pacing. “The building on Mt. Orthys is not just a fortress, apparently the contingent of Destroyers are stranded here, just as we. They are unable to their mother ship without a more powerful communication array.” “Has Atlantis and the Mother Ship destroyed each other?” Apollo asked. “We have no evidence to that inquiry,” she said, mater-of-fact. “That’s probably the least of our problems. The main purpose of the building is to magnify the spatial rift, thus, destroying our universe in favor of the other.” The room was quiet. “Damn you, Cronus. I should’ve known you didn’t have what it took to resist their influence,” Zeusticus grumbled, slamming a fist down on the Council table. “Brother,” Hades said, bringing up his readings from Tartarus, “these readings are off our scales. The technology required to build this dimensional gateway may be beyond even us. I need to study it closer.” “I only need to know how to close it, or destroy it.” “From my studies, I believe it can only be opened or closed from the controls on the other side.” “If we destroy those controls, will it be enough?”

“I can’t be certain without further study. It could close, or start a catastrophic chain reaction that would destroy both universes.” “That’s not much help.” “Again, it requires more study,” Hades calmly explained to an irate brother. “We have to attack.” Zeusticus was unreasonable. “Chief Councilor,” Athene-A interrupted, “our supplies are running low, so far, our casualties have been low, but another attack could be detrimental.” “If we don’t stop them, or at least slow them down until we find the key, or Atlantis arrives, we not only doom this planet, but all planets to oblivion. We cannot rest. Prepare for another attack.”

“Her-A, I ordered you to fly high cover,” Zeusticus said, through the comm system, as Hermes dodged a house-sized boulder. “You look like you need help,” she responded, like it ended the conversation. Zeusticus huffed, “Stay close.” The battle went well, considering it was last minute. The Titans were caught off guard, and the plan to drive them back into the rift, was working. If it succeeded, they would guard it until a way to close it was discovered. The non-combatant Titans clustered near the rift, while the other Titans were herded in its direction. Then, the trap was sprung. New Titans emerged from the mountainside, and hurled rocks down on the overly confident Atlanteans. Casualties mounted, but they pressed the attack. Titan body parts littered the valley. Zeusticus caught a glimpse of the rift as Hades, Demeter, Hesti-A, and Poseidon came running out. They were too soon; the shuttle couldn’t get to them. Why? Was soon revealed, as giant Cyclops and Hekatonkheirs, pursued dangerously close. Hermes dove down to assist, but too late. They were driven into Cronus’s large hand. Hades removed his helmet and threw it at the giant’s head, the brief distraction allowed him to drop his equipment, unnoticed. Cronus took the other hand, picking

Hades out like a handful of ripe grapes and raised him high over his upturned face, and dropped him into his mouth. Horrified, Zeusticus furiously blasted away with his electric bolts. Creatures from all over, formed a wall and absorbed the hits. Cronus took Hesti-A, and did the same, and then Demeter. Poseidon put up a fight with the shuttle, until Cronus grabbed it and peeled it open like a banana, and picked out Poseidon. The captive punched several holes in his hand before losing his trident. It, along with the shuttle and its other occupants fell to the ground. Poseidon was gobbled up before any help could arrive. Zeusticus was making no progress, but had most of the creature’s attention. Hermes took several hits, but was undeterred. From out of the chaos, Her-A emerged, her war scream could be heard over the battle. She leaped from her Pegasus, raised her spear, and plunged it into the back of Cronus’s neck. He screamed heartily and reached back and grabbed Her-A. She had missed the target. Cronus held her in front of him, eye to eye, and then threw her to the back of his throat. “No!” Zeusticus was stunned. He had lost all of his family in just a few minutes. Rage boiled up. He pointed Hermes straight at Cronus’ face and dove. Bolt after bolt struck Cronus as fire and stone flashed by him. He briefly held his fire to let the weapon charge, and at the last second, fired point blank. Part of the giants skull seared away as he staggered back to the edge of the pit. One eye still intact, Cronus saw Zeusticus and reached out and slapped at him. Hermes veered away too late. The impact was formidable, and the Dragon spiraled to the ground. Zeusticus briefly blacked out, as Cronus caught him in mid-fall. Athene-A, and a squadron, were fighting their way to Zeusticus, when they saw Cronus pop him into his mouth. Zeusticus was startled back to consciousness by large teeth coming down on him. His mental powers were diminished, but he managed to hold the molars at bay, but he was losing. He thought about all he’d been through, all his family. He had had a long life and was grateful, but there was still so much to do. He prayed not to be here anymore, and then he wasn’t. Athene-A, and a her group, screamed at the scene, opening fire with everything. Cronus was rocked back, losing his balance, he fell back into the rift pit. Dust,

dirt, and smoke made visibility impossible. They retreated to get a better assessment of the battle. Hermes was limping away, when Zeusticus appeared at his feet, unconscious. Shaking off the surprise, he snatched him up in his good claw, and flew away through the dust and smoke. He flew as high and as fast as he could, still reeling from the impact and losing his bearings, all he could think about was escape. Athene-A could tell that both forces were depleted, and the war of attrition was in the Titan’s favor. They were so close, but they just didn’t have the manpower to finish. With leaders lost on both sides, it was a chaotic mess, and not much more was accomplished. She took control and called a retreat, another stalemate.

Hermes dipped out of the clouds to get his direction senses back. He was groggy, disorientated, and wounded. They should be safe by now, but no land in sight. Sinking closer to the water, he strained under pain to find a place to land. Zeusticus moaned in unconscious agony. There, he thought, in the distance, an island. He banked right and kept dropping. Hermes skimmed across the water and crashed onto the beach, piling up sand as he came to an abrupt stop. Zeusticus crawled away from the wreckage and collapsed.

“We can’t afford another attack like that,” Athene-A excitedly said. “We have to be smarter and more flexible.” “We understand, Athene-A,” Apollo said, “but, we need to chose another Chief Councilor.” The room became silent. “Yes, of course, all of our Chief Councilors are either dead, or in the TSD. Any applicants should apply and a vote within the week.” “Agreed.” “We also need a better plan to close that dimensional door. The Cousins call

Tartarus. If we close it, we can then begin to defeat the Destroyers, perhaps one at a time, but we have to shut off their source of power and reinforcements.” “We shall start our studies on the information Hades gathered before he-” Hephaestus cut himself short. Athene-A dropped a haggard head. “We should proceed with that, after we mourn our dead and tend our wounded. A Council meeting every day until a new Chief Councilor is selected.”

His eyes were closed, but he could hear the scuffling about. Zeusticus could mentally picture the cave he was laying in. There were ten people-no wait, Cousins, in the cave with him. The fur blanket was comfortable. He slowly opened his eyes and focused on the most beautiful face he had ever seen, perhaps as beautiful as the Aphrodite twins. Blond hair dangled down past her pale smile. “Welcome back to the realm of the living,” she said, with a twinkle in her voice. “May I get you something to drink?” “Water,” he hoarsely said. She clapped her hands, and another woman ran forth with a bowl of water. Zeusticus propped himself up against the cave wall. He took the small bowl, drank, held it back out. “More...please.” “As you wish, my Lord.” She elegantly rose and said to the servant girl, “Get the larger pitcher.” The girl nodded, and then gave Zeusticus a weary look before she took off at a run. Zeusticus couldn’t help notice the blue dyed tight leather thigh high dress. Something wasn’t right, a woman of this stature shouldn’t be living in a cave, her jewelry could attest to that. The girl returned, struggling with the large clay

pitcher. She handed it to the exceptionally tall, sophisticated woman, she, then in turn, handed it to him. Taking the large pitcher in one hand, he drank the container down, slightly coughing, which, immediately made him notice the pain in his side. “Thank you. What’s your name?” “Alceme, my Lord.” “You don’t have to call me Lord, or God, my name is Zeusticus.” “Zeus-Zeus-” She had trouble pronouncing it. “Zeus, is fine.” “Yes, Lord Zeus.” Her eyes widened, and she bowed. “Zeus, God of Gods.” He rolled his eyes, adding to the headache. He looked around the dimly lit cave at cloths, food, and other items used to survive. They were haphazardly pilled about the large cave room. “Where am I?” “The island of Crete.” Zeus tried to imagine where that might be, but the headache made him give up. “How long have I been unconscious?” “We found you yesterday morning.” “Where’s Hermes?” “Who?” “The Dragon that brought me here.” “Oh, he is still sleeping on the beach. I have soldiers protecting him.” “Thank you, again.” She slowly kneeled down beside him, now having to look up. She started with a questioning look on her face, and then gathered up the courage to ask, “Are you truly an Olympian?” Zeus thought about it for a few seconds, and then ed what Cousins

referred to them. “Yes.” “How goes the war with the Titans?” Smart, informed, and pretty, Zeusticus thought. “Stalemate.” The question brought back a flood of memories. His wife was a casualty, his brothers, and many others. He was visibly shaken, she put a comforting hand on his shoulder, daring to be so bold. He looked into her deep brown eyes and was comforted. He broke his gaze away. “Go now, I must rest and heal.” “As you wish Lord Zeus.”

Hermes felt the warmth of the sun on his back. It felt good, but the smell of fish was better. He opened an eye to see several piles of decomposing fish at the end of his snout. A non-Atlantean Minotaur had his back to him, but the other two saw the eye open, and ran without warning their comrade. The loan guard turned slowly to an upraised Dragon head. He peddled backward, but didn’t go anywhere, until he fell back. A gapping maw came down and consumed most of the fish pile. The Minotaur realized he wasn’t dead, jumped up, and ran away. Hermes moved slowly up the sand bar, realizing just how hurt he was. His wings had holes in them that would probably never heal. He was old, and he felt old, too old for war games. His age was showing as he limped toward the cave mouth. He collapsed at the entrance, realizing he would be alright with a few days of rest.

Zeus stood up and bumped his head on the ceiling. He heard a giggle from the far opening. He should’ve been angry, but he found himself smirk. Alceme came the rest of the way in with fruits and berries. Zeus took the bowl, brushing her hand as he did. She looked into his deep blue eyes, and for a moment, was mesmerized. She shyly looked away. “Your Dragon is awake and eating faster than we can provide.”

“He’s not my Dragon. Hermes is a being all to himself.” “He is another God?” “We are not Gods.” “Of course, you are, no mortal can ride a Dragon, and survive those wounds, Lord Zeus.” Zeus just shook his head. He stretched his tall muscular frame and then washed himself. He redressed in his light armor and made his way outside, where he greeted a limping Hermes. His wing was drooping as he sat on his haunches. “You appear in better shape than when I last saw you,” Hermes said to the astonishment of all the Cousins and Minotaurs that had gathered around. They quickly kneeled down. They both glanced around and shook their heads. “Still sore, but I’ll heal. You look terrible,” Zeusticus said, moving closer to his comrade. “Ha, that’s what Despin-A says after every excursion with John.” Zeus half smiled, it felt strange that he could do that after he had lost so much. “Can you walk?” “Yes, hurts, but I need to exercise it, not as young as I used to be.” Zeus half smiled again, and then strolled toward the beach. People scrambled to get out of the way of a large swinging tail. “Hermes, the last thing I was the inside of Cronus’s mouth, the stench still lingers. I wanted to be somewhere else, more than anything. I closed my eyes, and then I was floating over a sea, then I woke up in a cave.” “I was wounded and trying to get away, when suddenly, you appeared before me. I grabbed you, and escape through the chaos of battle. I flew as fast and as high as I could, until I reached a cloud bank. In my delirium, I kept flying until I couldn’t. I saw this island, and crashed here. I think more tests and experiments should be conducted, but I think you’ve mastered the art of self-teleportation.”

Zeusticus thought about it for a second. “It does seem logical, but it must take an enormous amount of energy.” “Then you should be careful how you use it.” Zeusticus looked out over the sea. The moon was a silver disk on pale blue-gray horizon. He spotted a few bright stars against a fading background and quickly calculated where he was. “You flew a long way my friend, thank you.” Hermes just nodded acknowledgement. Zeusticus looked back at Alceme. “I’m still weak. I think we should stay a few more days. I’m sure the war will still be there when we get back.” Hermes looked at his old friend in understanding, snorted, and then dragged himself over to a dugout spot in the warm sand and curled up for a good sleep.

Athene-A easily won the Chief Councillorship. She set into motion a plan to study the dimensional rift, and how to close it. With the help of the Cousins, developed an observation protocol. Also, a way to incapacitate the Titans, killing was a last resort, if even possible. Pacificism still ruled, if they discarded it now, it would render them just as culpable as the Destroyers. Arguing, instead of debating, ensued, and more and more she wished John were here with her. He always seem to know what to do, even if he didn’t know what to do. All the information they had gathered from the last battle would take years to decipher. The war would continue, but mostly, it was designed to prevent Orthys from being completed. Jay felt what she was going through. The burdens of command in a war situation, trying to keep your morals intact as you make life and death decisions. He could feel her sadness, but he also felt her resolve.

Zeus still felt guilty when he smiled, or laughed when Alceme would do or say something that sparked his humorous side. She brought him some wine and sat

down beside him. “You are almost healed. Will you be leaving us?” “Soon, I must return to the fight.” “But your wife, Her-A, has only been dead a week, surely you must take more time to morn.” “True, but she had become cold and distant over the last few centuries. I think because we kept outliving our adopted children, her heart became hardened by constant loss. I did love her, and I will miss her dearly.” Alceme put a hand on his bare chest. “Then I would take great pleasure in comforting you.” She pulled away her dress and straddled him. He tried haphazardly to discourage her, but became lost in her deep dark eyes, as she kissed him. The next morning, Zeus felt her staring at him, and opened the one eye closest to her. He could not the last time he had slept so soundly. He rolled over to face her. “Won’t this discourage your husband?” “Although, I am pregnant with his child, he is not my husband. We lost our honor, and he is battling to get it back.” She rolled over and took a deep breath. “My Uncle, Pterelaus, King of Taphian, came to claim a share of my father’s kingdom. King Electryon of Mycenae, of course he naturally refused. In response, Pterelaus ordered his sons to steal all our cattle. Without them, we would starve during the coming winter. My brothers did battle to retrieve them...” She paused, and teared up. “All, but one, was killed. All, but one, of my cousins was killed, also. My betrothed, General Amphitryon, saw an opportunity for peace, and offered to buy the herd back, he did so, but while parading the herd in front of my Father, he tried to dissuade a bull away from the king with a club, and accidentally struck, and killed my Father. My Uncle Sthenelus immediately seized the throne. He charged him with murder and exiled us. We went to Thebes for purification. King Creon of Thebes would exonerate him if he rid the countryside of the Teumessian Fox beast. He was a genius, and succeeded. King Creon, then left it to me for final purification. My anger still raged, I demanded Amphitryon avenge my brothers before I would marry him. He, and King Creon are at war with the Taphians and Teleboans, still. That’s why we have been exiled to this island. The Minoans have been gracious enough to let us stay here.”

Through the whole explanation, Zeus could only say, “You’re pregnant?” “A most recent event. I know you could easily smite him, but he is a good man.” “I will see to it that General Amphitryon is successful. I would love to take you with me, but you would be driven mad by incomprehension.” She scooted herself up, and put her head on a large, muscular shoulder. “I don’t understand, but I believe in you.” Zeus swallowed hard, and thought, this is why he loved the Cousins so much. Their unconditional love, when Atlanteans did not deserve it. He enjoyed her company, as another week went by. Zeus finally decided it was time to go back and continue the war. Alceme took his arm before he could climb onto Hermes, and said softly, “I am pregnant.” “I know, you said as much.” “You don’t understand, I am pregnant with your child.” He looked at her as if she had lost her mind. “I have confirmed it with my mid-wives, and an Oracle. I have two children, now. One is General Amphitryon’s, and the other is yours.” Zeus pulled a handheld from Hermes’s pouch and took some readings. They confirmed what she said. He smiled, then it faded. “I still must go.” “I didn’t tell you to make you stay. You don’t have to coddle me, I’m quite capable of taking care of myself.” “That I have no doubt.” He put a large hand on her shoulder. “That’s not what I meant. I have a war to direct. I promise, I will look in on you from time to time, and help if necessary.” She softened. “I would like that.” Zeus reached out with an injector and pressed it against her skin. “If you really need me, just call for me.” He kissed her on top of the head, and disappeared. He

appeared on the Dragon’s back. Hermes scampered along the shoreline before getting airborne, and was out of sight in a matter of minutes.

Chapter Seventeen: From Time to Time Athene-A sat in a comfortable high back chair, looking at the 3-D image of Tartarus. “Now that Olympus is complete, and the Titan call dramatically diminished, I think we should disband the Cousins, and disperse them back to where they came from.” “That may prove to be difficult. They have learned agriculture, and better animal domestication. Their communities are growing, along with their knowledge of metallurgy,” Delphi-Apollo explained. Athene-A slammed a hand down on the table. “Zeusticus’s single-minded ambition to end the planet bound Destroyers has sped up their maturation by an incalculable amount.” “We’ll probably still need some to maintain the outpost.” “I’ll put it before the Council.” There was a disturbance in the hallway, impact tremors could be felt. Athene-A stopped talking and looked at the over-sized doorway. Zeusticus strolled in with Hermes towering over him. Athene-A stood up. “Zeusticus...you’re alive.” “Obviously.” Athene-A was immediately angered by his insult of her intelligence. “I meant, how are still alive?” “I’ve discovered a new talent.” He vanished before her eyes and appeared behind her. She turned and faced him. “What...” “I’ve discovered self-teleportation in the waning moments of my demise. Although both of us were badly wounded, we did manage to make to an island, and there with the help of some Cousins, and Minotaurs, we were nursed back to health. It will all be in my report. Now, are we ready to continue the battle.” “We have ceased hostilities for the moment. We need to research your brother’s findings.”

“What? I demand we attack immediately while they are weak.” “We lost a lot of lives, and we are running low on equipment and supplies. We are weak.” She sat and leaned back in the Chief Councilor chair. “We are monitoring their progress on Mt. Orthys. When they start to rebuild the communications array, we will destroy it.” “We can’t settle for attrition! I’m Chief Councilor, I have a policy in place.” “Since your absence, I’ve been elected Chief Councilor.” “In that case, I must invoke the law, one developed by John-Anee-Athain, himself: If after a long absence, a Chief Councilor is still fit and competent, may resume their Chief Councilor duties.” Athene-A stood up and confronted him. “Unless a no-confidence vote goes against, said, Chief Councilor.” Zeusticus was quiet for the first time since he had been there. He had lost a lot of over the last few battles. He wasn’t sure he could prevail. “Athene-A,” his tone softened, “I propose a compromise, you remain here as Chief Councilor, and I’ll conduct the war from Olympus as Vice Chief Councilor.” Athene-A studied him for deception, then considered it. “That would still require Council approval, I’ll call an emergency meeting, we’ll let them decide.” Zeusticus smiled, and disappeared. “That’s a bit unnerving.” She turned to Hermes. “How are you, old friend?” “Sore, old, and tired, but well.” “Thank you for your service.” She moved in closer to his large face. “Could I ask a favor?” “Of course, anything.” “Zeusticus has been erratic for some time now. Maybe it’s the Destroyer psyonic influence, I can’t be sure, but I need someone to inform me if he oversteps his authority.”

“I understand. But Zeusticus is an old friend.” Hermes swung his head around as if checking on eavesdroppers. “He has become more erratic as of late. I will keep you informed.” “Thank you.” “Now, I must find Despin-A and give her the bad news, that I’m still alive.” Athene-A smiled. “She was last seen in the nursery.” Hermes rolled his huge cat-like eyes and lumbered out of the room.

The Council approved the division of power, research and fighting would continue simultaneously. The information compiled by Hades would take them to a new level of understanding. Zeusticus continued to attack the Orthys facility relentlessly. His planning and tactics kept damage high, but casualties low. The native population, along with Minotaurs, Centaurs, and most other species created a large spy net work, and on occasion put them in harm’s way. Hundreds were now assisting his efforts.

Ten months since the ingestion of Her-A, Poseidon, Hades, Hesti-A, Demeter, and the deaths of many others that fateful day. Athene-A was called to the TSD section. She walked in and approached Pandor-A, while watching her manipulate the controls. “What’s so important?” Athene-A asked, leaning on the console. “It’s John, he is free from the Extra-Temporal-Dissociation state.” “Let’s bring him out, he’ll have a solution. He always sees a way out of any given situation.” Pandor-A struggled with the controls, at times looking confused. “I don’t understand,” she stopped and looked at holographic images. “He’s gone.”

“What!” “I mean, he’s gone, again. He’s out there again, I’ve never seen anyone have back-to-back Extra-Temporal-Dissociations. All we can do, is wait.” “For another lifetime. Keep monitoring.”

Zeusticus appeared in the room. It was dark, lit only by scented candles and moonlight. Alceme lay struggling in labor. “How is she?” He said to a now shrieking and panicking group of mid-wives. “Zeus, my love. I thought you had forgotten me.” He moved to her side and with a large hand, cupped hers. It was clammy and perspiring. She was racked with pain and a pasty glow matched the moonlight. “I hate seeing you in pain.” “It is worth it to bear the son of a God.” Zeusticus took out a handheld and ed it over her. He frowned at the readings. The larger child was breach, preventing both from being born. “She is cursed,” one of the midwives said, “It’s like Hera, herself, doesn’t want this birth. An evil stare sent all of them groveling to the floor. He gave her a mild sedative and with large hands, along with telekinesis, move the child into position. “Now, you may continue,” he told the group of women. Zeus stood back and watched them work. Soon, there was a baby’s cry, followed by another. Zeus kneeled beside her, took a damp cloth, and wiped sweat from her forehead, while two midwives cut the umbilical cords. Two others cleaned and swaddled the babies. The smaller one was handed to Alceme, while the humbled midwife presented the larger one to Zeus. He gently cradled the child and stared into his eyes. “What shall I name him?” Alceme asked, looking up at Zeus. He studied the cherub face, sensing something special about this child. “He is

strong, he should have a strong name. I want to honor my deceased wife.” He looked at Alceme for approval. “We shall call him, Heracles,” Alceme weakly said. “Then, from this day forward, he shall be known as Heracles.” The smaller brother cried out. “I haven’t forgotten you little one, you are Iphicles.” Suddenly, the door burst open. A man of authority strolled in with a half dozen guards. Zeus immediately assessed the threat as minimal. He noticed quickly how there metal working had vastly improved to mimic their own. As soon as the general came into the lighted room, he immediately ed who the giant was, and quickly kneeled. “Mighty Zeus, thank you for your presents.” Jay could feel something wrong as Zeus approached the men, anger? No. A darkness of spirit. He could feel the overwhelming sense of being all powerful, a feeling of being a Destroyer, being infected by their malevolence. Zeus slowly suppressed it, put it away as if it weren’t needed anymore. But he was no longer denying his Godhood status. “Subjects...rise. General Amphitryon, I’ve watched you, and believe you to be an honorable man.” “Thank you, my Lord,” he said, as he stood up. Zeus strolled near them. “I don’t know exactly how long it will take me to defeat the Titans, but I cannot have a child at my feet as I do. I therefore charge you, and Alceme, with raising our children honorably. Do you accept?” “Yes, my Lord. I’ll treat him as my own, and recite the praises of your glory.” Zeus walked back to Alceme and took her hand. “You should be feeling better, soon. I will be watching over you, my love.” “Will I see you again?” “I will visit from time to time.” She brushed back tears, reached up, and kissed him. A moment later, she kissed only air. Heracles and Iphicles cried for her attention.

The battle raged for years, as neither side gained an advantage. Zeus became more unpredictable; Cousins became more educated and more populous. Fighting amongst themselves, learning more brutality than any Atlantean could imagine. Monsters expanded to all areas. Almost all of them had a taste for humans. Athene-A had all but lost any influence over Zeusticus, and many of the others. Both Groups battled the Titans in their own way, but it was not enough. The bond between Atlanteans had been fractured. Zeusticus looked in on Heracles as the boy grew twice as fast as his twin brother. He became one of the few things that kept him sane, thus, more children were born to keep him rooted in reality. Jay watched time quickly, as battles raged. Civilizations rose and fell. Years into the conflict, Athene-A got word from Rhe-A that an escalation in the conflict had occurred, one that needed her immediate attention. Jay saw her in the Great Hall of Olympus, confronting Zeus. “Zeusticus! Show yourself,” Athene-A yelled, while marching toward the large throne-like chair. In an instant, Zeusticus sat there in full armor. “Athene-A, we are training, what do you want?” “I have reports of you using Cousins for combat. That is a direct violation of our Code of Conduct.” “Your, Codes, are limiting and outdated. The Titans are using their influence of Godhood to persuade them to fight for them, promises of eternal paradise in the afterlife. I use Cousins to combat Cousins, by using some of the same tactics.” “You are rationalizing their use, just as Aztek-Alon did.” Zeusticus stood up and marched angrily down the steps, and met her, face to face. “Are you threatening civil war again, Athene-A?” Athene-A looked away, and then back. “No, but your actions could have dire consequences in the future. You have advanced them in every category; technology, farming, domestication of animals, especially the art of war. You have moved them forward, far beyond our calculations. We need as much time as it takes to find the skulls and for Atlantis to return.”

This time Zeusticus looked away, as if being reminded of his mission. This time, he softened his position. “Athene-A, I only use our Cousins to combat the lost Cousins. Once the Titans are neutralized, I will use my influence to order them back to their stone age.” She paced in front of the slow spinning hologram of the Earth. “I will discuss it with the Council, if you agree to set them back as soon as possible.” “Agreed.” She changed her tone. “How goes the war on your end?” He huffed. “We are at a stalemate, but they are unable to complete the communications array. We destroy it continually.” “Rhe-A reports that Cronus may not be in a hurry to complete it. He seems to be content with playing God with his subjects. She finds him very, ‘unpredictable.’” “Any progress with my brother’s data?” “Yes, we are working on several prototype weapons and dimensional shift dispersions. We still need more time and research.” “Then allow me to buy you that time. Stop distracting me from my goals.” Athene-A found herself alone, and still angry.

A few more years rolled by, while Athene-A struggled to keep Zeusticus in check. She had lost the vote to keep the Cousins neutral, either through desperation, or fear. She wasn’t sure which one held a higher priority. A few more Atlanteans acquired the self teleportation ability, but it still alluded most of them. She tracked Zeusticus down one day to a balcony. He was looking in at two young boys playing stick sword fighting. Athene-A estimated their age at not more than five or six. The larger one was possibly older. “Have you come to berate me again, Athene-A?”

“Yes,” she looked at the children laughing and playing, “but, it can wait. Which one is yours?” “They are actually twins, but mine is the larger one, of course.” She gave him a strange look, one that only he could see through their personal cloaking devices. “It’s a long story.” He looked back at the boys. “He’s going to be special.” “What are their names?” “Heracles, named after my wife, and Iphicles.” The boys ran by the balcony opening. Heracles stopped and stared out at nothing. Athene-A looked closely at the boy, his dark hair and blue eyes made him look familiar. She sensed something familiar, her concentration was broken by the boy getting whacked on the head by the smaller brother. He squealed, and chased his brother out of the room. “What makes you think he’ll be any more special than any of the other crossbreed children?” “His scans are on the high side, almost more Atlantean than Cousin. Besides, an Oracle told me.” “Oh, one of those cross-breeds thought to be able to see through time dimensions and see the future. It’s been reported that this kind of knowledge and understanding will allude them, usually to the point of madness. What did she see?” “What makes you think its female?” “They are almost always female.” “She saw Heracles, defending our human Cousins from the Destroyer monster creations. As soon as we rid this world of Destroyers, we will have to contend with the mess they will leave behind.” “Let me guess, the Oracle told you that you would win.”

“Of course.” “Come, we have important matters to discuss.” They turned and stepped into the invisible hovering shuttle, and quietly left.

It was nearing the ten-year mark, since the defeat of Uranus, and the rise of Cronus, when Athene-A walked through the halls of Mt. Olympus. As she approached the main Council room, she heard music, laughing, and singing. She pushed the great door open to see festivities of all manner. Almost all the initial personnel from the shuttles were there. Human Cousins scrambled about serving drinks and food, trying desperately not to get stepped on, or knocked down. Dionysus was experimenting with his new wines, from the looks of stumbling Minotaurs and Centaurs, she deduced it was a success. She pushed her way through a crowd to get to Zeusticus, who, was sitting across his throne. Before she could get to him, she came face to face with Aphrodite-Pandemos, her beauty was only matched by her twin sister, and by the attention of male and female alike, Atlantean or not, made her the most popular at the party. Athene-A cleared away from the crowd, and stood at the foot of the floating chair looking up at Zeusticus. She projected her need to talk to him. He disappeared, and then appeared beside her, by now, she ceased to be startled. “I have important information,” she yelled over the noise. His blood shot eyes glared. He then reached out and took her arm. In a blink, they were in a quiet atrium. “I see you are perfecting your skill.” “At the moment, I can only transport one other person.” Great, she thought, something else to stroke his ego. “There’s been a breakthrough on your brother’s research.” Zeusticus immediately seem to sober up. “Go on.” “When Pandemos was trapped inside Uranus ten years ago, she was not being stored there for organic digestion, she was there because of her relationship with agoam crystals. She was going to be used as an anchor to hold Uranus here in

this dimension.” Zeusticus paced. “You say she was not to be consumed like the Cousins, but used as a stabilizing agent?” “Essentially, yes, and in order to accomplish this, she must be alive.” His face brightened. “That means Her-A, and the others could still be alive.” “Precisely.” “We must free them at once.” “We have other breakthroughs.” Zeusticus threw his goblet away. “Please tell.” “Gai-A is not very happy with Cronus either. She seeks a peace pact. Rhe-A has confirmed this, there is dissention among their ranks, again, and a good time to attack, would be soon.” His enthusiasm waned. “Why, we blow them to bites, and then they just regenerate. It’s an endless cycle of destruction. The only change is our numbers and supplies dwindle.” “Until now,” she gave him a devious look, “we think we know how to close the dimensional portal.” “What! Tartarus can be closed?” “Our simulations show an eighty-six percent chance of success. Two-fold plan is to get the Titans on the other side, and then shut it down.” “How are we going to get them through?” “That will be your job. While you’ve been fighting, we too, have been working. Weapon enhancements we believe will be enough to make them move in a desired direction.” “Come, to the battle room, we must plan.” Zeusticus walked away, as if he had a purpose once more.

The attack was swift and merciless. Mt. Orthys was reduced to rubble, again. The combatant Titans threw everything back, but they were no match for the onslaught. They fought their way off the mountain and performed a fighting retreat toward the dimensional rift, where they drew most of their power. The Titan, Atlas, saw the tactic of herding and broke loose. He gave commands to Cousins, and the orders spread. Soon, Zeusticus had to contend with hundreds of human Cousins. Zeusticus gave the order to counter with Cousins of his own. They were as ferocious as he’d ever seen. With enough of them, he could probably control the world. He was proud. The Earth trembled as if Atlantis was taking off again. Atlas killed hundreds with boulders. They were too numerous, and crawled over him like insects. He was being overwhelmed and was driven toward Tartarus, where Cronus and the others fought. This was where it always ended. The Titans would draw strength from the rift and wait out the attack, and then rebuild. The ionization of battle caused the atmosphere to heat up. The clouds formed a dense precipitation blanket around the area. As night fell, lightning was prevalent across the sky. Zeusticus and Hermes dove in after Cronus. Power almost depleted from his gauntlet weapon. He screamed a battle cry as lightning struck the weapon. It was immediately recharged. The new technology used several buffers to absorb energy without overloading. He fired the electrically charged weapon over and over. Cronus was given no time to recover, while he struggled to stay upright. He threw whatever he could get his hands on, screaming with rage. Cronus was battered repeatedly by the ion disrupter. From a distance, it looked as though he was grabbing lightning from the sky. The attack chipped away at Cronus, as the others were herded around the rift, its glow lit the darkness. Cronus was completely out of control. He raged, and threw boulder after boulder. The barrage against him was so intense he tried to use a boulder as a shield. It lasted only a few seconds. He was now missing several body parts as he dropped to his knees. He used the sickle type weapon to prop himself up. Zeusticus saw his opportunity and leaped off of Hermes, landing in front of the exhausted Cronus, he kicked the weapon out of his hand, leaving him to hold himself steady with his one good arm. “Cronus,” Zeusticus yelled, “you are a traitor, and shall be punished.”

Cronus raised his battered face to the sky and howled in angry madness. Zeusticus took the sickle and levitated upward. The blade tore into Cronus’s groin, as Zeusticus accelerated upward, until he reached his throat. Steamy entrails spilled out onto the ground, along with many membrane skinned capsules. The battle was silenced as the choking giant fell back to the ground with a bone jarring crash. The Titans stopped fighting, and the non-combatant Titans were rounded up and led to the rift. Zeusticus waded through the putrid entrails with his scanner. He dug through until he found what he was looking for. He ripped the capsule open to reveal Her-A in a fetal position. As soon as the air touched her lungs, she gasped and coughed to life. He smiled and cradled her as he waded out of the morass. He placed her near Athene-A and several other Atlanteans, wiping away a slurry of mucus. She opened her eyes weakly and smiled. He looked up at Athene-A with glassy eyes. “Let’s get the rest of them, and the wounded back to Olympus.” People moved quickly, soon, the area was secured and all the Titans, and their body parts, were rounded up and guarded. The non-combatant Titans were kept separate from the others.

The sun was shining the day after the carnage. Zeusticus and Athene-A scrambled to stay ahead of their victory. Poseidon, Demeter, Her-A, Hesti-A, and Hades were near full recovery. Zeusticus stayed with Her-A as much as possible, but he could tell something was wrong, or at least, different. All of Cronus’ captives were-changed.

Hades, carrying several data pads approached Zeusticus. “It took you and your crew long enough to discover our suspended animation.” “We were busy fighting a war, plus, we thought you were dead. Glad to be wrong, Brother.” Hades half smiled. “Regardless, I have discovered a better method of closing the portal, but I need more time to study the portal controls.”

“So, you need to go back in there. I would think you would’ve had enough?” Zeusticus added sarcastically. “On the contrary, I find it even more intriguing.” “Most of the Titans are under control, the area should be safe enough. I’ll get a crew together.” Athene-A walked in as Hades was walking out. She gave him a smile and a few encouraging words. She then turned her attention to Zeusticus. “I have good news; we can inoculate and isolate the Titan sub-gene. Rhe-A will be the first patient, she insisted.” “Of course, she did. We also need to make another trip to the portal, my Brother thinks he can close it with closer study, building on ed research.” “He always was brilliant. What are we going to do with the Destroyer detachment?” “Since they are virtually indestructible, although I would like to continue testing that theory, I’ll probably put them in their other universe and close the door. At least the ones who can’t be converted back to their original selves.” “Have you read the reports on our Cousins?” “Yes, disturbing, the Destroyer, and our own, interference has accelerated their advancement.” “They have found very efficient technological means of killing each other. The Titan faction is still obsessed with violence, and freeing their Gods. The others have kept up in order to defend themselves.” “Once we secure the Titans, we’ll focus more on them.” “How is Her-A and Poseidon?” “Poseidon is slow to recover, but...Her-A... not quite herself, yet. She seemsangry.” “I know, Rhe-A has changed, also. Sad, skeptical, more than before. Perhaps

they’ll return to us over time.” “We’ll see, now, we must prepare to send those monsters back.”

Hades emerged from the dimensional pit with a large handheld cupped under his arm. Zeusticus, Athene-A, Poseidon, Her-A, and many others, stood at the edge of the pit and watched him approach. Rhe-A was her normal physical self again, but stayed back remaining uncharacteristically quiet. “You look worried, Brother,” Zeusticus said. “I have good reason. Their technology is...phenomenal. I could spend the rest of my life studying it, which may be what I have to do. The composition of the dimensional door is strong on this side with the agoam crystals, but weak on the other side. I can close it from the other side...” “But...” “The controls can’t be destroyed, or it could cause it to collapse into a singularity.” “A black hole.” “Crude description, but yes. Worse yet, when the controls cycle, it could open again.” “So, you’re saying someone will have to monitor it?” “Yes.” “For how long?” “...Indefinitely.” A doomed hush came over the group. Hades smiled. “Oh, don’t worry, I am volunteering.”

“Brother, it’s a death sentence.” “Yes, but probably the longest one in history. The control area technology has distorted time. I may never die.” “How will you control the Titans?” “The control facility is large, and surrounded by its own distortion field, once outside of it, they can only get back in if someone let’s them. Besides there are several places that weren’t quite destroyed by their meddling. They will be fine, and neutralized.” “What else will you need?” “I’ve sent my list to Olympus.” “How soon?” “Should’ve been done ten years ago. It needs to be done soon.” Hades put a hand on his Brother’s shoulder. “I’ll be alright.”

The day was overcast and the people somber, most of the Titans had already been led through the portal and away from the building they constructed. Athene-A wasn’t sure what would happen to them, would they starve, live forever, live together, or simply die. Cronus was a particularly hard situation to take, much like the other Atlantean-Titan hybrids that were too far gone to recover. Hyperion, Cronus, Iapetus, and Thei-A. All were going to be missed. Gai-A had managed to convince Zeusticus to let her stay, she was responsible for bringing down two Tyrants. She promised to live out her life peacefully on this side of the rift. Although, Zeusticus took precautions to ensure this. Her convincing ways managed to allow other Destroyers to stay as well, Themis, Maemosyne, Phoebe, and Hemer-A. Others, however, were on the run and a danger to all. Typhon, being the biggest threat. Poseidon was assigned to watch over the oceans, mostly because he had a score to settle with the Beast. He allowed Echidna to stay, mostly as bait, to draw Typhon out. Athene-A watched over the procession of equipment and supplies taken into

Tartarus. Several Cerberus played as they were led down the one large tunnel left for access. Zeusticus still didn’t trust the Destroyer Cyclops and Hekatonkheires. He forced them back into Tartarus. Gai-A almost pushed Zeusticus too far with her argument, but relented, but she wouldn’t forget. Hades put his handheld away and gazed back at his brothers. “Brothers, don’t despair, time is but an eye blink, and I shall see you two again. Save this world and save all the people. I will do my part on the other side. Have you made the choice, yet?” “Yes, Atlas, will be the conduit,” Zeusticus said, looking briefly at the Titan they had wrapped in the strongest chain links they could invent. “I wish I didn’t need a Destroyer persona to bridge the rift gate, such as a latch, or lock, to keep the gate closed. I don’t know if it will be painful, but it is necessary.” “Of all the Titans, he was the most brutal and unforgiving in combat, and the most deserving of punishment.” “Very well, we should get started.” Athene-A followed them down the tunnel. Atlas put up resistance against the chains, but was pushed down the tunnel anyway. Once everyone was on the other side of the rift, Atlas was drawn and tied to two great pillars. Zeusticus nodded to Hades, who, took out his handheld and waved a hand over it. The orange lake began to swirl as Atlas screamed out and froze in place. The swirling morass began to twist like a tornado and drop into the rift opening. Zeusticus, and the rest, retreated back to the surface. The wind and noise was loud as dust and dirt formed a dirty whirlpool. Ripples in space-time began to flow back to its origin until receding into the ground. In a matter of minutes, it was still and quiet. “Seal the entrance,” Zeusticus said, causing the shuttles to lance the wound in the Earth. It was done. The only thing left was several cracks in the ground that spewed sulfur from the nearby volcanic fissure. “The poisonous gases should keep the Destroyer influenced Cousins away, hopefully, forever.”

Zeusticus paced, as he always did, when Athene-A came in. She had forgone her battle armor for a loose-fitting white gown. Her raven hair was pulled back into a loose bun. He stopped to acknowledge her. “I’m sorry about Hades, he is very brave.” “Very stupid.” “Um, brave, nonetheless. I came to determine when you wanted to start dismantling Olympus?” Zeusticus stopped his pacing. “What?” “The Destroyer threat has been neutralized, there’s no reason to keep two facilities open.” “The threat has not been neutralized. The influence we, and the Destroyers, left behind will take centuries to correct.” “We can’t afford the manpower and resources.” “I said, the facility stays open!” “This is a matter for the Council to decide.” “Council, I am the Council. It will remain open,” he said furiously. Athene-A bit back her anger after seeing the influence in his eyes. She determined quickly that if she closed the facility, Zeusticus, with all of his sway, could create another civil war, and they were weak enough after the fight. “For now, I will be your liaison to Chrysalis, keep me informed.” She stormed out, already thinking of another strategy. He calmed himself, as Her-A strolled into the chamber. “She will persist.” “I know!” He took a deep breath. “I’m sorry. How are you feeling?” “Much better, now. Come to bed, and rest.”

He headed for the doorway. “I can’t. There is much to do.” Her-A gave him an evil stare as he left.

Chapter Eighteen: Insane Jay was amazed at the Great Hall. His view from above the glistening walls and decorations, where Zeusticus sat on his throne with Her-A to his right. Jay noticed a larger Council than normal, but the atmosphere was much more relaxed. Zeusticus had established a secondary Council of twelve , all with their own smaller thrones that made a perfect horseshoe design. They faced the center of the room that held a large 3-D image of a slow spinning Earth. “Our new mission,” Zeusticus started, as he stood up, and approached the spinning phantasm, “is to protect our Cousins-our children, from further contamination from the Destroyers. This means surveillance of the Titans left behind and pursuit of the rogue factions. We are to stay out of their sight as much as possible to hinder their progress. Now, we are going to need observers amongst the populous, our surveillance equipment can only tell us so much. “Poseidon, you have the sea to study and protect, enlist whatever help you need. I’ll control the land masses. The rest of you will have assignments according to your specialties. In order to keep us from being confused with Chrysalis, we’ll now be referred to, as Olympians. Let’s get started.” The group began manipulating equipment and talking to each other. Zeusticus got up to leave. “Where are you going?” Her-A asked. “I have a few things to check on.” “Like your Earth born children...and their mothers,” she jealously remarked. “Among other things.” He disappeared, leaving her to her jealousy.

Jay felt the age of time, similar to fast forwarding a video. He observed many arguments between Zeusticus and Her-A. She became more angry and vengeful toward his incidental infidelity. Her anger over time, grew uncharacteristic of her former self. She conducted business in a ruthless manor,

challenging his authority constantly. After a few years, Zeusticus couldn’t stand to be around her, but patiently waited for their nuptial agreement to expire. He couldn’t replace her on the Olympian Council because most of the feared her wrath. She became secretive and manipulative, especially toward the Cousins Zeusticus loved. Zeusticus smiled a friendly smile when Athene-A walked into the atrium, immediately sending her suspicions to the forefront. “Athene-A, please, come sit, and talk to me. Would you like a refreshment,” he said as he held out a coffer of wine. “It’s some of the best Dionysus has made to date.” “No, thank you,” she said, as she sat and cautiously looked around for the trap. He shrugged off the suspicion. “I’ve asked you here to discuss our annual update.” “That’s not for another month.” “Well, who says we can’t get started early.” “Very well, have you enlarged Olympus?” “Only slightly, to accommodate the Olympian hybrids.” “Olympian?” “Yes, it helps with the confusion of who belongs where.” “You could’ve sent the updated data. What do you want?” He quickly put away his anger and stood up to pace. “As you know, during the time I thought Her-A was dead, I took my grief and pain to the Cousins, I... sired a few offspring.” “This is no secret.” “Her-A watches me constantly, and is becoming more jealous every day. I want to ask a favor of you, or an appointee of your choosing, to look over the

hybrids.” Athene-A thought for a few seconds. “I will need access to Olympus at any time, and regular updates on future projects-that might be worth my time.” The thought of having him in her debt would be very useful, later. He stopped his pacing. “As you wish.” She stood up. “Do you know who the hybrids are?” “I have one in particular. Her-A has taken a keen dislike to him. Come, I’ll show you.” He took her hand, and they disappeared. In an instant, they appeared in a large room. The decor was Atlantean in nature, Jay thought it was early contemporary common ancient Greek style. Athene-A wavered as she rubbed her head. “I’m still adjusting to that means of travel. I’m beginning to understand how it’s done. Perhaps a few more trips.” “Any time.” “My lord Zeus, I was not expecting you, or I would have ordered a banquet in your honor,” the lady said, kneeling and putting her head on the floor. “Alceme, rise, it’s quite unnecessary.” Zeusticus moved toward her, his giant features began to shrink, until he was the size of a tall Cousin. He took her arm and helped her up. Athene-A took notice of the self genetic manipulation. He never ceases to amaze me, she thought. “Please, I want you to meet someone. This is Athene-A, she will help protect you and Heracles.” “And Iphicles?” “Of course,” Athene-A said, as she approached. “Then I welcome you, Goddess Athena.” She moved to two large bay doors and pushed them open.

The sun lit the garden, while children could be heard playing. Athene-A’s sharp eyes spotted the two children pushing each other, and then running away. She suddenly felt a connection with the larger child, a familiarity she couldn’t describe. “Shall I introduce you?” Alceme gracefully said. “No, I will do that when the time is right. I have observed them before, a few years ago. So, for now, let them be children.” Athene-A saw an unselfish and softer side of Zeusticus she had never seen before. Children will do that to you, she almost said out loud. Jay watched from the observation room on Olympus, as Heracles grew into a man. His travels with his brother became legendary, in the beginning. Her-A in her moments of insanity, inflicted great pain and suffering on Heracles. The Destroyer influence over her was just enough to make her cruel and calculating, as evident by her many clandestine attempts on Heracles’ life. Her jealousy was out of control. Athene-A blocked, or circumvented many attempts, but couldn’t protect him all the time. Zeusticus, himself, did not go unaffected by the Destroyer influence. He took it upon himself to become the protector of humanity. The Olympian Council began educating them, and interacting with them more and more over the centuries. Heracles became the instrument of destruction of Typhon and Echidna’s monster children. Jay watched frantically as time focused on Heracles and all his victories, tragedies, penance, and redemptions, all things human. Athene-A and Zeusticus could be seen intervening from time to time, mostly to counter what devious plans Her-A had concocted. Mankind, advanced and thrived. Chrysalis did little to slow the progress, mostly in fear of another civil war. Advances in metallurgy, farming, irrigation, was only sured by advances in warfare and destruction. The Destroyers had been neutralized, but their legacy awakened the evil in mankind, and it flourished. Jay saw civilizations rise and fall. It didn’t affect him as much as he thought, because the same thing was still happening today. Now that the enemy had been curtailed, the life of Heracles became the center of attention. Jay watched intently, as he estimated twelve hundred years ed since his birth, and his story was sad and violent, but the struggle was real. His death was tragic, as was most of his life. His funeral pyre was the brightest

anyone had ever seen. Cloaked in camouflage, Athene-A hovered nearby. She watched the congregation mourn, and felt sad, confused, this must have been how John felt when she, herself, had died as Anataka. She had known this was John in an Extra-Temporal-Dissociation state, since early on. A fact she didn’t want to share with Zeusticus. She put on a spectacular light show, as if Heracles were ascending to Mt. Olympus. The crowd was awed. This, she thought, would be ed for centuries. Jay thought, more like eons. She made her way back to Chrysalis to await his arrival.

Although Rhe-A had made headway in extending their corporeal life spans, she frequently went into the TSD for short periods of time. Delegating other people to keep an eye on Zeusticus, Her-A, and Cousins. She didn’t know why, but she was worried about what John would think of her. She had done her best to retard mankind’s advancement, sometimes even physically interfering. Hopefully, she thought, the destruction was worth what they learned about the Destroyers. Athene-A was deep in thought, when a much taller, but less muscular Heracles materialized on the large platform in front of the TSD opening. He looked around to get his bearings, stumbled a little as he made his way down the large pseudo-stone steps. Athene-A cupped her hands together as she approached. Why was she so nervous? “John,” confused, he looked in her direction, and then smiled. “How do you feel?” “Uh, well, surprisingly refreshed. The mature look looks good on you. Even though you still don’t look as old as I.” “You flatterer, you always did know what to say.” “How long have I been in?” She was quiet. “Oh, about two thousand years.” “What? That machine was suppose to bring me out every hundred years.” “You were in an Extra-Temporal-Dissociation state most of that time, we’re not

sure how many consecutive times, but you are the subject of study, now.” She smiled. He relaxed. “Well, how about a report?” She took his arm and started toward the common area. “A lot has happened since you’ve been...away. Do you want it all at once and be overwhelmed, or a little at a time?” “I think I’m going to need to take it slow. Let’s eat, I’m starved.” “Smart move.” She pulled him along.

They sat in the common area, receiving a few stares from ersby’s. Food slipped through an open mouth, as he tried to fathom what she was saying. He wiped his face off and said, “I think I’m going to need to see this.” Athene-A nodded and put her hands out, palms up. John put his hands in hers. He could feel her affection for him immediately, and his for her, but it was suppressed quickly. He watched, as the centuries rolled by, he was shocked, happy, sad, sometimes he would cry, and then laugh, during the hour it took to see thirteen hundred years of history. John took a deep breath and leaned back. Athene-A let him have some time to process the information. “There are some gaps when I sporadically returned to the TSD. The archives can fill in those blanks.” “Heracles, huh, well he had a more entertaining life than I.” “Yours isn’t over yet. He was a tortured soul, but exciting, nonetheless. I used him to keep Zeusticus under as much control as I could. I’m sorry I’m not as strong as you. I couldn’t keep him under control without another civil war. I believe he is quite mad, now, from the Destroyer influence.” “How far has he advanced our Cousins?” “Exponentially, we have to recalculate every day.”

John shook his head, and put his hand on hers, again. “It’s not your fault. I doubt even I could’ve stopped him. But now, we have to try, civil war or not.” “As close to Heracles as he was, I don’t know what he’ll do. He took your...his death really hard.” John’s look was distant. “You have a plan?” He focused back on her. “Of course.”

The shuttle rose over a hill, to reveal a magnificent city floating atop a mountain. It’s white marble textures accentuated its Greek style. Clouds formed at its base, where the gravity generators produced heat that condensates the water particles. More fog than cloud, boiled out between the mountain top and the base of the city. Drof set the shuttle down gently and opened the hatch. John stuck his head into the flight deck and went over the plan again. He then stepped out onto a large platform with light wind and an amazing view. “Hephaestus,” he said to the bull man, “you and Aphrodite-Ourani-A stick to the plan, no matter what you see or hear.” “You are not going to hurt my sister? She hasn’t been the same since she was swallowed by one of those monsters,” Ourani-A nervously said. “No, if all goes well, no one gets hurt. Hephaestus, it’s good to be working with you again.” “Yes, it is, Chief Counselor.” “Get going, I’ll buy you two as much time as I can.” They nodded and took off. John and Athene-A were dressed in the proper attire required by the Olympians. He chose the plain brown tunic that rested just below the knee, with synthetic sandals. Athene-A chose the solid white wrap around skirt that stopped above the knees. Her black hair tied into a braided pony tail.

Her chine-high tied sandals made no noise as they approached a completely unnecessarily huge set of double doors that opened as they moved toward them. The main entrance hall was grand and gaudy, with 3-D pictures on the wall, sculptures of all the Olympians on both sides. Embroidered carpet with pictures of Atlanteans and monsters alike. There were no shadows from the light from the artificial marble. John thought he was looking at a mock up of the city section of Atlantis, until he turned a corner. They entered another overly large room with large stone like thrones floating slowly around in a circular motion, overlooking a massive 3-D image of the Earth. There was music, laughter, loud talking, and drinking. Cousins, as short as they were, raced around the giants with food and drink, trying desperately no to get behind on their work. Zeusticus sat crossways on his overly ornate throne, with one leg hanging over an armrest. He felt, then saw, John come into view. He stood up quickly as the music and merriment stopped. John noticed quickly that Zeusticus was getting old. His flowing hair and long beard was completely white. His features were wary and aged. “Zeusticus, it has been a long time, you’re looking...older.” “John, we’ve been expecting you. , you have no authority here.” John moved around, as he looked at each of the Olympians. He saw some of the group look away in shame. “I am aware of the pact you made with Chrysalis. I’m not here to dispute it. I just wanted to see my friends, and what you all have created.” Zeusticus was caught off guard, expecting an argument rather than pleasantries. “I... I’m glad you have some sense.” He stepped down from his throne and faced him. “What would you like to inspect first?” “How about a tour.” “Absolutely. Her-A, see that the daily business is complete, and the records are up to date.” Her-A angrily stood and folded her arms in defiance, as he led John away.

They strolled through a glorious building, perhaps equal Acropolis on Atlantis. John marveled again at the architecture and decor of paintings, rugs, and statues. Holograms of history played out with monsters and exotic animals fighting with, or against Atlantean and Cousin alike. John spied one particular scene of a young Heracles battling a large lion. He stopped to watch; a feeling of déjà vu came over him. “John, are you alright?” Zeusticus sounded concerned. John shook it off, and continued down a hallway. Zeusticus turned right and waved a door open. John stopped in astonishment at the two podiums standing in the middle of the room. They moved steadily to them. Jay took a deep breath and ired the two multi-colored crystal skulls that sat on the posts. “See,” Zeusticus said, “our efforts here have not been a complete waste, of course it has taken us a thousand years, and a lot of lives to recover them.” John slowly walked around them, knowing they were the real thing. “You have done well, and you have a marvelous base here.” “I have been perfecting it for hundreds of years. I must it, I thought you had come to try to dissolve my home.” “What? One man.” “You underestimate yourself.” John came back to reality. Even if he did recover a few skulls, was it worth it to put their Cousins in so much danger. “Zeusticus, I would like to discuss the advancement of our Cousins.” “I’ve been noticing, you use the term ‘our’ instead of ‘the’ Cousins. As if they are our equals.” “Maybe in the future, but they are a part of us, and a part of our future. We brought all this upon them. It’s our responsibility-no-our duty to protect them, teach them, make them better than we are.” “I care for them, also, much more than anyone knows. But they have to be disciplined, they are all my children.”

“Then we must free them. We have to stop advancing them, until we can resolve the Destroyer problem. If they reach space flight beyond the solar system, the mother ship will return and sanitize the entire system, and then start over somewhere else.” Zeusticus was becoming angry. “I know this, that’s why I believe we should, teach, train, and arm them, in order to fight alongside us. I believe we can defeat this scourge.” “It would be like throwing children at lions. It’s wrong.” “Yes, right now, but soon, those children will grow up.” “I hope so, what then, will they think of us?” Zeusticus blinked. “They will understand...we had to make tough decisions; parents always do.” “They shouldn’t have to understand. They are innocents in all this. We must distance ourselves, and technology, from them, for now.” The two had been slowly walking back to the main hall when Zeusticus seemed to be capitulating. They walked up to the spinning holo-world and stared. Zeusticus started looking his age, the long white hair blended with his white beard. Wrinkles were accentuated by age. The party had stopped, and a serious overtone had taken over the room. Athene-A strolled around the crowd. She looked up to see John and gave him a look of accomplishment, not willing to telepath, so her thoughts couldn’t be intercepted. She had a drink and quietly mingled with the Olympians. Hephaestus was behind a chair in a far end of the horseshoe design. Ourani-A was competing with her sister for attention, both drew a crowd. Her shyness seemed to entice the growing crowd. Hephaestus worked diligently and ignored his jealously. Zeusticus stared at the world. “No!” he bellowed at the ceiling. “I will not leave them unprotected. They need me...they need us.” He spread his arms, letting his white robe hang loosely from his arms. “Friends, fellow Olympians, our savior here, and Chief Councilor wishes us to stop being Gods and return to the TSD. I say he is delusional to think that we can win without the help of our Cousins. What do you say?”

Jeers and no’s resonated through the hall. “So, John, are you willing to risk civil war,” Zeusticus looked at Athene-A. “No, Zeusticus, my Council does not want war. But they do want to cut off complete access to Chrysalis, it’s resources, and the TSD. Without it, all of you will grow old and die.” The crowd hushed. “But I need official verbal confirmation of dissension to take back to my Council.” “We can give it to you, now.” “In that case, everyone should take their seats and be able for their actions.” John relaxed. “Do you have anything to drink around here?” Zeusticus relaxed. “Dionysus bring us your best. Everyone, take your seats for official business.” Dionysus retrieved a sealed container and several goblets. He opened the container and John was immediately awash with the wine’s aroma. He handed Zeusticus a cup, and then one to John, with a smile. He then retreated back to the others, while they began sitting in their respective chairs. As soon as Dionysus sat, Zeusticus stood in front of his throne. He dissolved the Earth aura in the middle of the room, John moved to take its place. He took a drink of probably the most fantastic drink he had ever tasted. He looked at it, swirled it around, and smelled it deeply, while everyone became comfortable and quiet. Zeusticus stood in front of his chair and resided over the vote. “ of the Olympian Council, a major change in policy has been presented. A vote to disband Olympus, and return everyone back to Chrysalis rule. A majority will send us back.” He looked at the end of the floating thrones at Poseidon. A quick response of a thundering, “No,” resonated through the hall. Zeusticus, then turned to Dionysus. He looked uncomfortable, took a long drink, and then tossed his cup to the floor. His almond shaped eyes focused on Zeusticus, “Yes.” Zeusticus looked as though he had been stabbed. He hissed, then pointed at Apollo. “Yes.” This didn’t surprise him, since he had always been a friend of John’s. He pointed quickly at Aphrodite-Pandemos, she squeaked out a sultry, “No,” as if she had never said it before. Her sister just glared, wishing she would’ve taken a seat on the Olympian Council just to counter her sister’s vote. Zeusticus smiled, and then turned to Dian-A-Artemis, she waved off a young maiden and gently rubbed her tear-drop shaped amber pendant. She didn’t even

look at Zeusticus when she said, “Yes.” Demeter, daughter of Zeusticus, answered, “No,” before she was even asked. He then looked across the room to Ares, who had been his most trusted and bloodthirsty General. The hybrid child defeated all monsters and man, alike. He responded with a stern, “No,” while giving John a killing glare. Confidence rose, as Zeusticus put his hand up toward Hephaestus, who, quickly said, “Yes.” To no one’s surprise. Leto’s eyes glowed amber, as she tried to control her wolfen instincts. She glared hatred at Her-A, and would go against Her-A, or Zeusticus, on anything. “Yes, you should be stopped-” “Enough! Hermes, your vote could end this nonsense. What is your vote, my friend?” “Zeusticus,” the Dragon said, as he stood up from his mountain of pillows, “I have known you a long time. I feel our time has come to an end. It is time to go home. I vote, yes,” Zeusticus was angry, but not worried. He turned away from his friend, and put a hand on Her-A’s arm, as she sat quietly. She looked up evilly at him, giving him pause and concern. “No,” she said, giving Zeusticus a satisfying scare. Zeusticus looked relieved at the tie. “I vote, no, since there is no majority, the motion has-” “The vote is not over, Father,” John said calmly. “You promised me a seat among the Gods if I trusted you-believed in you. I earned it!” “Who are you?” “You know who I was, don’t you? You can feel it-Heracles.” Zeusticus stumbled back into his chair. John talked, as he approached. “You and Her-A tortured me, using me as your personal battleground, you both should be ashamed. How many others have you treated this way?” Her-A blushed with anger. “I vote ‘yes’ to disband.” “No! I forbid it.” He and Her-A started to get up. John sent a mental signal to Hephaestus, who, pressed a button on his handheld.

As the throne chairs slammed to the floor, except the ones that voted, yes. The gravitational force held them in place while they struggled to move, or even breath. The stress on their bodies from the adapted chairs made mental manipulation almost impossible. Her-A was screaming and struggling against the forces that held her. She had lost all sensibility, and acted like a trapped wild animal. Zeusticus quietly fought against the increasing force. He vanished, and then appeared behind John, grabbing, and then throwing him. He skipped across the floor, until he came to a stop. Zeusticus was already airborne and flying in his direction. John leaped straight up just before Zeusticus slammed his foot into the floor, causing cracks. John floated above him. “Zeusticus, you lost the vote, you must honor the traditions of our people.” He saw the same rage he had seen in Aztek-Alon, and knew this was no longer going to be easy. Zeusticus raised his arm at John and powered up the electrical discharge device attached to his forearm. It shot out a massive amount of electricity. The lightning bolt deflected off of John and tore out a section of ceiling. “Do you really think we would build a weapon with no counter measures.” The would-be God howled with madness and disappeared. He appeared behind John again, and wrapped his arms around his neck, putting him in a choke hold. John struggled, as they floated high above the floor. Suddenly, John disappeared, and then appeared behind Zeusticus, followed by a similar choke hold. “Father stop this madness. Zeus, stop!” The rebels were glued to their seats, while Athene-A, and the rest floated closer to the combatants level. They slowly encircled them. They began chanting in unison, focusing their combined power. Zeusticus disappeared again, and immediately appeared face to face with John. The blue eyes gave him away. He was insane. He gave John a fearsome mental and physical push across the room. The chanting became louder as they focused all their energy. Zeusticus locked up like he was in an invisible vice. He slowly drifted to the center of the group, while John hit a wall and limply tumbled to the floor. Once in the center of the trap, Zeusticus fought to stretch out his arms, with his remaining strength, exploded in an angry energy wave in all directions, sending himself and everyone else out, away, and down to the marble floor.

Hephaestus was quick to duck behind his throne-chair, and quickly helped Aphrodite-Ourani-A to a sitting position. Seeing she was alright, he raced over to John, who was slumped against a wall, and rubbing his head. “John, are you well?” The bull man asked as he helped him up. “Nothing I can’t recover from, thank you.” John focused his vision on Zeusticus laying on the floor, unmoving. He groggily made his way to him, and rolled him over. He breathed a sigh of relief to see he was still alive. Athene-A kneeled by John and put her hand on his shoulder, while waving a handheld over them both. “He’ll live. You, on the other hand, have concussion, again.” “Everyone else?” “Apollo is attending them, no fatalities.” “Good, have Drof bring in the security team.”

Pandor-A stood behind the console that controlled the TSD, and waited for instructions. John had taken notice of her aloofness, for a very long time. He was going to have to look into that. Right now, he had to carry out the Council’s decision. Zeusticus, and the crew that remained loyal to him, stood in line at the TSD opening, with wide wrist cuffs that used agoam crystals to dampen physical and psychic energy. Her-A was struggling against her Minotaur guards, screaming at times, while kicking. Reaching the TSD opening, they gently as they could, threw her in. Pandor-A took some readings and then gave John a nod. They watched the spectacle, until Zeusticus broke the awkwardness. “I want to thank you for speaking to the Council on my behalf.” “I wanted to. You, and your group, brought down a Destroyer detachment. No easy task. I wish things would’ve turned out better for you, for a Hero.” “This is the best for us.” “I promise you, once we find a cure for this Destroyer influence, I will bring you

out. But it could take a very long time.” “Time is irrelevant, it’s just what we use to measure the distance between actions. Our Cousins were already forgetting , soon we would not have been needed, and dissolved into myth and legend. Until we meet again, John.” “Until we meet again Honored Zeusticus.” He moved gracefully up the steps, took one last look back, and then slipped into the black swirling opening. Poseidon stepped up. “I’ve added people to work on freeing your brother, Hades,” John sympathetically said. Poseidon’s burly frame barely acknowledged him, and defiantly stepped into the Temporal Storage Device. Ourani-A cried, as her sister, Pandemos was led to the portal. The closer the God of War got to the device; he began to struggle. It took everyone around to get Ares the warrior into the machine. Demeter looked older, she begged John to let her stay, but truth tests proved her to be deceptive. John stood their sadly, with Athene-A by his side, while the rest were incarcerated. “What’s your plan, now?” Athene-A asked. “To dismantle Olympus, and transfer all resources back to Chrysalis. In the mean time, track down all the Destroyers, and hybrid Destroyers Zeusticus let run free and see if they need to be detained. Try to make sure Tartarus stays closed, or nullified.” “That list, may take some time.” “This whole mess we’ve made, will take time to fix.” Jay strained to keep up with the age of time. He could feel the machine starting to release its hold on him. Civilizations, great and small, rose and fell. Parts of the world advanced more quickly than others, but all had the same theme. One person, male or female, would rise up to conquer, and then fall quietly, or dramatically. Advances in all categories would take steps forward, and with little, to no help from the Atlanteans, fall back into chaos and ignorance. A cycle that was repeated constantly. Just before he awoke, he saw the Earth inundated with water.

Jay blinked away the blurriness. “Wow,” he said. Rhe-A took the band off his head and then looked at her scanner. He sat up, shaking the dizziness out. When he opened his eyes, he was looking Rhe-A in the face. “How are you feeling?” She asked with comion. “A little dizzy...and disorientated.” “Cerebral cortex has been over stimulated. John, I suggest taking a twenty-fourhour break. Unless you want more mush for brains.” Jay stared for a second. “Say, did you shrink, or did I grow?” He slid off the table and his knees buckled. He caught himself with the table and steadied himself. She took his arm to help steady him. He notice she was as tall as he was. She let him go, and turned and went to her laboratory instruments. “Mush, primordial mush,” and continued working. John shook his own head, rubbing it with one hand, and said, “Yes, mush, that was a traumatic time. I’ve tried to put it aside, but it still haunts me.” “What can we correlate with that event?” Athene-A asked, without showing any side effects. “It seems these crystal skulls keep coming into play.” Jay said. He felt better and moved around the lab, while thinking out loud. “So, you know who the Destroyers are?” He asked, and then picked up a small device and twirled it around. Rhe-A reached around him and took it away, like a parent would do to a child. “We’ve encountered them several times, but still are confused by them. They’ve done some erratic things, changes in their behavior from time to time. We are still studying them.” Jay continued strolling the room, rubbing his head. “So many questions,” he said more to himself. “Seriously, dragons?”

“We have quite a few families here.” “So, what’s next, rainbows and unicorns?” “Rainbows are a natural occurrence, there’s no such thing as a Unicorn. But we could make one if you’d like,” Athene-A said, humorlessly. Jay laughed. “I’m sure something will make sense, soon. It has to. One more thing, at the end of that session, I saw the Earth covered in a lot of water.” They looked back and forth at each other, until John said, “We call it the Great Awakening. It’s another long story for another time.” “Say, I’ve got a free hotel room in Athens, anybody want to go sightseeing, since I apparently have a day off.” “No, not this time, Jay,” John started, “I’ve got a lot of data to go over. Go, relax. We’ll continue when you get back.” “Grandma?” “I would love to, but I have seen my city enough. Rhe-A, would you accompany JJ. It would make me feel better.” “With all this work to do.” “You’re in need of a break. It will do you good.” Athene-A made it sound like and order. Rhe-A looked at Jay, and then back at Athene-A. “Alright, but just for the day.” Jay clapped his hands together. “Good, prepare to be amazed.” He started for the door, giving Athene-A kiss on the cheek as he went. “Well?” He motioned with his hands. “Right now? I have to prepare.” “Where’s your spontaneity, your sense of adventure?” “I have more sense, and more adventure than you could imagine. I’ll meet you at

the shuttle in an hour.” The door closed behind Jay. He stood in a very large room, and watched all manner of species walk past him with hardly a glance. “Rhe-A,” John said seriously, “keep a close eye on him. If he does have the answer to the location of the key, or tracker skulls, the Destroyers might find out, or might already know. He’ll be a target. He’s a good person and doesn’t deserve this.” “And,” Athene-A ed in, “it wouldn’t hurt for you to be nice to him. He could hold all our fate’s in his mind.” “I think we’re all doomed,” Rhe-A smiled. “Don’t worry, I will protect him with my life...but do I have to be nice?” Jay found a 3-D map of the complex on a wall. He stared intently at it. The complex was pointed at the peak and bulged out as it extended below the mountain. A teardrop shape. The levels were carefully planned out and a selfcontained world rested quietly within a world. “Is there a place you wish to go?” Aidan said, from behind him, bringing Jay out of his concentration. “Uh, no. I’m waiting for Rhea. We’re suppose to take a break, and go to Athens.” “Alas, I wish I could go with you, but my appearance might cause a bit of a stir.” “Yes, you would be the talk of the town.” “There once was a time when Minotaurs ruled this world, and humans worshiped us.” “Some of our dig sights have revealed as much, but no physical evidence of your people exist, just idols and drawings.” “Our physical make up, and this planet’s dynamics, cause our remains to decompose rather quickly. Not much is left behind, but our deeds.”

“That is important to you?” “The very essence of who we are.” Jay stopped to look around at such a diverse group. Marveling at how they got along with each other. He hoped someday his own people could do the same. “Shall we get something to eat?” “Sounds good, but I want a more in-depth tour, later.” “I would be happy to accommodate.”

Chapter Nineteen: Endeavor “You’re late,” Rhe-A said, from the shuttle hatch. She was dressed in a light blue button up collared shirt with dark blue slacks. Her hair was pulled back into a bun, much like the way Jay first saw her at his Grandfather’s front door, minus the blond hair. Aidan and Jay stopped laughing as a result of her voice. “I didn’t know we were on a specific time schedule, it’s a day off.” She looked perturbed as Jay looked at Aidan, and then started snickering. “What’s so humorous?” “Aidan was just telling me about some of your adventures.” “I don’t them being-funny,” she said, putting her hand on her hip. Aidan got serious, while waving goodbye to Jay, or was it a good luck wave, Jay thought. “I guess you don’t anything about fashion either,” Jay said, climbing aboard and sitting in the co-pilot’s seat. Rhe-A looked down at herself, rolled her eyes and, went to the pilot’s seat to begin plotting their course. “Where to?” she said, looking over at him. “I had better check in at the hotel. I’ll think of something after that.” “This haphazard way of going about life is very disturbing.” “Nice touch on toning down the blue eyes, genetics?” “No, coronal overlapping computer membranes.” Jay looked confused. “ lenses?” “Not as effective as a handheld, but effective enough for our purpose.” She reached over and waved a hand over a crystal. His face appeared on the forward screen. She moved her eyes back and forth, mesmerizing Jay by the act.

“Whoa, can I have some?” “You’re already dangerous enough with the crude technology you have, no.” “Can I fly, then?” “No.” “Can I-” “No!” “This is starting out to be the worst vacation, ever.” “It’s not a vacation,” she said, as she set the shuttle on its course. It moved silently through the tunnel, vanishing as it exited. “It’s a break from a stressful situation.” “That is the definition of a vacation. Well, if you’re going to hang with me, you’re going to have to be more like Rhea Wilkenson. She was fun, and I liked her.” Jay thought he saw her nostrils flare, while she adjusted the controls. She paused. “I will endeavor to find her. We have arrived.” “Good, I’ll meet you in the hold, I’ll be the one in the taxi. Oh, I’m driving.”

The taxi was moving at a high rate of speed into a rising sun. Jay noticed the airconditioning worked very well for such an old rust bucket. Making a corner, the sunlight moved across the dashboard giving off a strange blue hue. His distraction caused him to slightly drift into the oncoming lane. He shifted back and slowed down. Before Rhe-A could make a comment, Jay said, “Two people in the front of a taxi is a little suspicious, maybe we should rent something else? Probably a commonly used car for the area.” Rhe-A touched the dash and a 3-D display appeared. Jay just looked back and forth several times. “Computer, list most common vehicles sold in Greece in the

last ten years.” The display only responded with data. “Looks like the Toyota Yaris.” She moved some astral symbols around and the car began metamorphosing into the car displayed on the dash. He let off the accelerator as the interior began to change. He held onto the steering wheel with one hand, while holding up the other. “What the hell-” “Superconductive autonomous memory metal poly-carbon nano molecules. Quite flexible and programmable.” She smiled. “You don’t think we would trust ourselves to your crude tech, do you?” “Actually,” Jay said, marveling at the new smelling interior, “I think it’s cool.” He began waving his hand across the display, searching the car models. “We need a four door, and red. That one, a Mercedes S series.” “We are supposed to be inconspicuous.” “Oh, right.” He waved a hand and chose a white one. Rhe-A shook her head as the car began to change. She was surprised at how fast Jay caught on to the technology. She stored it away for future reference. Jay pulled up to the hotel valet. “I might as well check in since the institute is paying. It’s got two beds. You can stay with me, or get your own room.” “I was asked to keep an eye on you, proceed.” Jay handed the valet something that looked like a key, and headed into the hotel lobby. He was given a room on the fourth floor, where he was told most of his group was assigned. He nodded, and was off to the elevator. They were alone in the elevator, when he said, “We’ll check out the room, and then see if we can find Shell. She’s still not answering her cell phone. The desk clerk said she checked in yesterday, and hasn’t checked out.” They silently walked down the hallway reading the numbers. Jay stopped and inserted the key card. He stepped in, followed by Rhe-A. Flicking on the lights, he said, “Which bed you want?” “I’ll take the one closest to the window. I always had a room with a window on Atlantis.”

Jay threw his bag on his bed. Rhe-A set her bag down, and then went to open the curtains. Jay didn’t want to interrupt her nostalgia, but could feel something was wrong. “Uh, you can use the bathroom first.” “Unnecessary, I’m ready to go-sightseeing.” “Alright, I’ll use it.”

Soon, they were wandering the hallway, until they came to Shelly‘s room. Jay knocked lightly at first, and then he pounded on it. Nothing. Rhe-A stepped up and stared at the door handle, and with her telekinetic ability, opened the door from the inside. “Damn, you’ve got to teach me that trick.” “It’s not a trick. It’s a mental-” “Shell!” Jay stepped ed a perturbed Rhe-A, and into the room. “Shell!” Nothing. Rhe-A closed the door, while Jay checked the bathroom. He then looked around the room, and then under the bed. The room was ransacked and cluttered. “Well, she was either on a bender, or practicing for a cage match.” Rhe-A took off her silver bracelet, and held it out. It stayed eye level, and began to spin, faster and faster, until it looked like a sphere. “What’s that?” “Right now, it’s scanning the room.” It slightly changed colors. “Project,” she said, confidently. The room slightly darkened, as the door sprang open to let a running woman into the room. Jay leaped out of the way as the apparition ran through him and began rifling through ghostly cloths.

“Stop,” Rhe-A calmly said. The scene froze. “Is this your colleague?” Shelly was distressed. Her tan pantsuit was smudged and wrinkled. Her blonde hair was disheveled, and he thought she might have lost some weight. “Yes, Shelly Masters.” “Confirmed,” Rhe-A stated, as she studied the phantom readouts just below the sphere. “How’s this possible?” “The sensor array detects everything, from DNA, pheromones, and body excretions, light, sound, and temperature echoes. Measures the rate of decay, while the computer ties into your crude network system to fill in sequences of events. Simple.” “Oh, yah, simple.” Jay rolled his eyes, and looked back at the Shelly projection. “Continue,” Rhe-A said. The scene showed the hotel door slowly open as Shelly took her cloths from the drawers and tossed them at the open bag. A man strolled in; Jay recognized him immediately. The scene skipped a little, then hesitated. “Professor Snodgrass, the dig sights lead archeologist,” Jay informed her. The scene continued with Shelly looking up to see him. “Professor, how did you get in here?” Her voice was like an echo. “The door was open, my Dear.” His voice had the same echo, but much deeper. She looked confused. “Where are you going? The sight will be open in a week.” “I, uh, have business to attend to state side.” “Does it have anything to do with the artifact you found?” “What artifact?” She stopped throwing things around. “Ah, Miss Masters, don’t play coy.” His attitude took on a menacing tone. “The one you stole from the dig sight. I know you have it. I can feel it.”

Jay and Rhe-A moved around to face the phantom Professor. He held out his hand and a piece of metal ripped out of her jacket breast pocket, and flew across the room. “Stop!” The metal piece halted in mid air in front of Jay. “You don’t have to yell,” Rhe-A said, while moving closer to the object. The picture was sketchy, somewhat incomplete, blurry.” “That’s Atlantean tech,” Jay said. “I found one similar to it at the dig sight.” “Interesting, the man shows Atlantean abilities. Much more advanced than Cousin hybrids. It wouldn’t be the first time we encountered a rogue Atlantean. Continue.” The Professor caught it, and smiled as he raised the other hand, looking at an empty palm. “Stop!” “You still don’t have to yell. It can hear you at your lowest breath.” “Oh, yah, sorry, over stimulated cortex, . Look at his face, there.” He saw a double image around the eyes, they were black holes, not to be stared into, or your soul would be sucked into them. Jay stumbled backward. At that distance, he could see the whole person was a double image. The eyes were like two teardrops pointing at each other, and his skin was bloodless gray. “He’s a Destroyer.” Rhe-A came around to look at it from Jay’s point of view. “How can you tell?” “You don’t see it?” “No, I see what should be there. What is he looking at in his empty hand?” “An instrument, I think. Apparently, the computer doesn’t recognize or its properties.” Jay stared into space for a few seconds. “I’ve seen them before. When I was younger, and as recently as just before Gramps, ah, John Rodgers died. I never knew what I was looking at.” “Interesting, they are still after agoam crystals to stay grounded in our universe.

Agoam crystals have been lost all over the world since Atlantis’s exodus. Cousins find them from time to time, and blend them into more natural objects, jewelry, weapons, clothing, and so forth. They can be dangerous to many hybrids, having unpredictable affects on them. Mostly, not good affects.” Jay looked at his watch. “How long ago did all this happen?” “Four point two-three hours ago.” “Continue,” Jay said. The recording started as if never interrupted. The Professor smiled as he examined the piece. “How did you find this?” “I...I just found it.” “No one just finds these objects. Come with me Miss Masters.” “No,” she said, a little frightened. He approached her, took her sternly by the arm and looked in her eyes. “Yes, my Dear, you want to come with me.” Shelly calmed down and stared back. Jay could see she was falling into a trance. Then, she blinked twice, and then slapped the Professor hard, while making a run for it. He was stunned for a second, but was able to catch her before she got to the door. He pulled out a hand gun from his jacket pocket, and put it in her face. She stopped struggling. “Now, come with me, or I will kill you.” She nodded her head. He quickly frisked her, and found her cell phone. He tossed it in the toilet, and motioned her out of the door. Jay started to follow, almost forgetting he had to open the door, first. Rhe-A snatched the bracelet from the air, slipped it on, and followed him into the hallway. They watched the specters walk down to the elevator. The elevator doors opened for real and let people out, only to have them walk through the apparitions. The two couples didn’t even acknowledge any of the scene, and strolled on by.

“Let me guess, we’re the only ones who can see this?” “Precisely.” She smiled a rare smile, and stepped into the elevator. “Who are You?” Shelly’s voice echoed. “Why, I am Professor Snodgrass.” “No, you’re not. You have the artifact, now, let me go!” “I can’t do that. My benefactor has taken an interest in you, and wishes to meet you. Now, come along, be nice, and I won’t be forced to hurt you.” The elevator door opened, and he patted the weapon under his jacket. She complied, but with a little more confidence than before. Jay knew that look; she was planning something. They made their way outside as the ghost called for his ride. A black, American made, SUV drove up. Shelly took off running. The Professor waved a hand and launched her into a post. She crumpled to the ground. “It’s alright, Folks,” the Professor said in Greek, to a growing crowd. “I’m taking her to the hospital.” He picked her up with little effort for an old man. He laid her down in the back seat. He quickly got in the enger front side, and they sped away. “Where’s our-” The car screeched to a halt in front of him. Jay ran around to the driver’s side, open door, and hopped in. Taking control, he said, “Which way?” Rhe-A quickly transferred the data to the car. A specter of a car appeared up ahead. Jay pulled in behind it, trying not run into the real cars speeding ed. “Can we speed this up, Shell could be dying,” Jay said, as he switched lanes, making someone very angry. “He’s actually going very slow.” “Probably trying not to draw attention to himself.” She motioned with her hand, and the black car sped away. Jay pursued.

“I it, at first,” Rhe-A started, I was going to as much information as possible to the local authorities, and let them handle the situation. Staying away from the Destroyers, and their Hagha’Kyum henchmen, has been a customary strategy.” “What changed your mind?” Jay asked, changing lanes to follow the ghost car. “The way she resisted the mind influence. Curiosity, of how she came by the Atlantean tech. Also, your affection for her.” Jay couldn’t tell if she was jealous, or concerned about his feelings. “Do you suspect her of being an Atlantean?” “Atlantean, a hybrid, such as yourself, or a Temporal Dissociated Atlantean. I need a closer examination.” He dodged a few cars, noticing the traffic lights were turning green as he approached. He surmised, Rhe-A had something to do with that, along with no police in the area. The phantom car soon turned off onto a road blocked by an orange barrier, with the words in Greek and English, stating, no entry. Jay quickly went around, and followed the car to an abandoned factory. It stopped in front, allowing the Professor to pick up Shelly and carry her inside. The SUV sped around to the back of the building. “Sensors indicate three humanoids on the fourth floor on the south-east corner and some odd readings. We may want to call for assistance from Chrysalis.” “There’s no time to wait. We have to save her, now.” “I’m reading one humanoid in severe distress. I concur with your assumption. I will send a message.” Jay started to get out, but Rhe-A grabbed his arm. “This vehicle is equipped with gravity, and anti-gravity generators, along with a cloak. We should move to the South-East corner fourth floor, and enter from there. Initiate cloak.” The Mercedes-like car shimmered out of existence. Jay sent it to its destination. “I want this car. All we need are masks and capes to save the world.” He actually heard her laugh as the building’s fourth floor window came along side the car.

“It’s not a car, and be careful what you wish for.” The large window had been knocked out a long time ago, leaving shards of glass on the seal and floor. Rhe-A reached into the center console, took out another bracelet, and handed it to Jay. “Here’s yours, it’s not quite as sophisticated, but it does have a personal cloak.” She quickly showed him how to use it, and then reached in and pulled out two SP-10’s. “Here, hold this.” Jay took hold of the pistol. It fit as though it was made for his hand. Rhe-A tapped a small crystal, and Jay felt an almost unnoticeable tingle. “There, it is set for only you. Just don’t shoot me. It works just like one of your modern hand guns. Do you know how to use one of those?” “Yah, Gramps taught me,” he said, nervously waving it about. She grabbed his arm. “Put it away, and don’t use it unless there is no other choice.” “Understood,” he responded, trying to get his emotions in check. The car door blended away, allowing them to step on the window seal, and into the empty room. Rhe-A examined the handheld, while moving through a hallway, leaving only wisps of swirling dust near her feet. They heard the talking, before they got to the large room. Jay recognized the Professor’s voice, as he spoke to two other people. At the far end of the room, Shelly sat tied to a chair with her head slumped forward. The Professor creature stood over her talking to a subordinate. Moving up closer, Rhe-A spoke to Jay mentally, “Move around the other side of the room. As soon as they leave, we’ll get her out of here. Simple, quick, and no bloodshed. Understood?” “Understood...wait, are you in my head?” “Yes, and it’s chaotic and cramped in here. Be prepared to move quickly.” “How did I know not to speak out loud?” “A mental incursion results in a mental response, just as if I verbally spoke to you, you would verbally speak back to me. Now, do as I said. Move to the

doorway on the far side of the room.” Jay moved cautiously in that direction. The Professor lifted her head up by her blonde hair. Her face was bruised, and she looked unconscious. He let her head fall back to her chest, and turned to one of his minions. “The Master wants to see this one for himself. See that she does not die.” The man did a zombie-like response, and began checking her for life signs, while the Professor moved to another room. “Now’s the time to move,” Jay said in Rhe-A’s head. “Not yet, stand by.” “Why? We knock out the guard, snatch her up, and we’re out of here.” “I’m getting some anomalous readings, stand by.” Jay fidgeted as he waited, wondering why Rhe-A was taking so long. He moved to the doorway where the Professor went, and peeked in. He was on his knees, softly chanting, Abaddon, over and over, with a small crystal skull held over his head. A shadow began to coalesce in front of the Professor. He then caught a wisp of Rhe-A’s thoughts, confusing, analytical, studying. Wait! he thought, she’s studying, she’s stalling. Jay stepped back on some shards of glass that cracked and echoed. The Professor stopped and looked his way. His black ovaloid eyes stared at him, as if he could see him. Jay held his breath. The professor slowly turned back to his chanting. Jay quietly moved around the possessed human male, kneeling down, he began to untie Shelly’s bonds. “Rhea, how could you? I trusted you.” “Jay, get out of there. You are jeopardizing everything.” The rope dropped to the floor, getting the guards attention. Shelly jumped up and punched the guard to the ground, and then took off running toward the staircase. She heard footsteps running up to meet her. She turned and saw Jay running up to her. “Jay?”

“Shell, come with me.” He took her arm and led her to the opposite doorway, to the room where he had the waiting car. He looked back to see several men and women dressed in black suits, running into the room. The guard was up, and firing his projectile weapon at the new comers. They ducked for cover. A light blast came from the dark doorway where the Professor stood. The blast was energy focused, and hit Shelly in the back. She lunged forward and fell as Jay tried to catch her. They both fell to the floor. Bullets and light beams splattered around the room, knocking large chunks plaster off the walls. The unprotected guard took a dozen rounds, that pinned him to the wall. The Professor was driven back into his dark room, while a second guard sprayed bullets around like a water hose. Jay looked down to see Shelly spit out blood, while he dragged her out of the crossfire. The hole in her chest was two fingers wide, causing her pale skin to become paler by the second. Jay put his hand on the wound to slow the bleeding. But, he knew, it was no use. He felt Rhe-A kneel beside him. She shimmered into existence as the gun battle continued. One of the new comers was hit in the leg, Jay watched a comrade drag him out of the line of fire. “Rhea, Help her.” “John?” Shelly quietly said over the chaos. Jay put his ear close to her face. “Shell, it’ll be okay. I’m here.” “John, I’m so cold.” “I’m here, Shell -Rhea! Do something, please.” Rhe-A had a befuddled look on her face. “I don’t know if I can, or should.” Shelly gave a convulsive gasp. Several bullets racked across the wall over their heads. He laid her head softly on the floor. The rage weld up inside of him like a volcano. “Help her,” he demanded. He took out his pistol, and ran screaming crazily across the room. The black-suited people stopped firing, and watched as Jay plunged into the dark room firing continuously. The Professor was caught off guard by the frontal assault and took several hits before being driven deep into the room, and out of the only intact window. He crashed out of the window and out of sight. Jay ran to the window, squinting, he peered down to see no body. He looked all around, but saw no sign of him. His unexpected charge flushed out

the last guard, and he was quickly cut down by a wall of bullets. Jay turned to see several people enter the well-lit room. “Jay?” a middle-aged woman said, as she walked toward him. “Shh,” Jay said, holding up a hand for her to stop. She did so. He took a step forward, and kicked the crystal skull the Professor had been using. It was fist sized and gray. He picked it up. He had never felt so much grief, loneliness, or was it despair. All he knew for sure was they were not alone in the room. Jay closed his eyes and projected his mind, his feelings. “There you are, you Bastard.” He fired his beam weapon, at first, it appeared to be at nothing, and then a shadow formed as the beam sliced though it, the wall, and then the concrete. The short bipedal shadow didn’t move, but it was unaffected by Jay’s weapon. The new comers ed in. Again, it seemed to have no effect, except to make the shadow more noticeable. Its bulbous head and thin arms and legs slowly moved toward Jay. Here, but not here, Jay echoed in his mind. Something he had seen, they were here, but not here. Spatial dissociation, they appear to be in one place, but are actually in another. Jay swept the beam to the right, large pieces on wall were cut and falling. He swept the beam left. The creature appeared to Jay as a blurry double vision. “Concentrate your fire on this shadow,” Jay said to the group, as they reloaded their weapons. Both shadows moved closer to Jay. The group moved up, and around Jay. The noise was overwhelming, while large chunks of building fell, leaving a gaping hole in the building. He increased power to his weapon. The creature screamed in frustration, sucked the skull up, turned, and then jumped out of the hole in the wall. They stopped firing, ran to the creature’s exit, and looked down. It was gone. “Jay, what was that?” The woman asked, from behind him. “I’m not sure, Colonel Masters. Shell!” He ran out of the room and over to where Rhe-A kneeled beside her. “Rhea, can you do something? You owe her for using her as bait for your little

experiment. Damn you, help her.” Rhe-A was visibly shaken. Something Jay thought he would never see from a hardened Atlantean, thousands of years old. “I’m sorry, Jay. I’ve done what I can to make her comfortable. I can’t do much more, here.” “Shell! Oh my God,” the middle-aged woman said, kneeling down and cradling the dying woman. “Mama,” Shelly said, weakly. “It’s okay baby, Mama’s here, now. You’re going to be fine.” She yelled back at one of her subordinates. “Get an evac helicopter here, now.” Jay put his hand on Rhe-A’s arm, and calmly said, “Can you heal her?” “The weapon used is something I haven’t seen before. It not only tears away flesh, but continues to do so, like venom spreading. I’m waiting on a response from Chrysalis on how to proceed.” “To hell with them. You’ve acted on instinct before, sharing your DNA with us, making us who we are.” “Yes, and see where that’s gotten you!” Rhe-A raised her voice for the first time. Shelly gasped a dying breath. Colonel Masters looked Rhe-A in the eyes. “Please, help my daughter.” Rhe-A looked down, and took a deep breath to calm herself. “She is special, and warrants further study,” she said, in her normal analytical voice. She then took the bracelet and placed it on Shelly’s chest. The aura of symbols floated above her. The symbols flickered so fast, as to be almost imperceptible. Rhe-A used her mind to make the process go faster. Once she got the results she wanted, she waved the bracelet down on her body. A light, barely noticeable energy field cocooned Shelly’s body. “What did you do?” her mother asked.

“She’s in a stasis field. As long as she’s in it, her body will be suspended in space-time. She will not get any worse, but neither will she get better. I need my lab to properly diagnose and treat her.” “Who are you?” Jay interrupted. “After what you’ve seen today, it probably wouldn’t be too much of stretch if I told you, she was an Atlantean.” He expected a laugh, or a, you’re crazy, look. “So, I finally get to meet one,” was all she said. Now, it was Jay’s turn to look perplexed. “You know about them?” “We know of them. Before I was on the t Chiefs of Staff, I was in charge of Watcher-Section-18.” “We have no record of this organization,” Rhe-A said. “That was the intention. We communicate personally because we know how tech savvy you are. The organization has been around for hundreds of years, observing and studying, recording by crude methods as writing and pictures. Although, we don’t know as much as we would like. We have a lot of hand written sightings of your activities. A battle is going on between you and an enemy. Destroyers, I believe you call them. We have encountered them in the past, as a matter of fact, all these people you see here, are ones who have encountered either your kind, or the Destroyers. That’s pretty much the only way to get into this club, unless you’re me, and pry too much.” She got quiet for a few moments. “There’s a war coming, isn’t there?” “The war’s been going on since the beginning of your time. We feel it will soon come to a climax.” Jay reached down and took Colonel Master’s hand, and said, “Abigail, we need to get Shell to Chrysalis, trust me, we will do all we can.” Blonde hair fell in her damp eyes. “You know, she talked about you all the time. How happy you made her, how angry you made her. I believed she loved you, nonetheless.”

“I love her, too.” The Colonel looked down at her helpless daughter. “I was in Greece for a meeting when she called. She wanted to see me. We met at a little cafe, where she showed me an artifact she had found. I recognized it, and tried to take it from her. She got very angry because she knew I was lying to her. I didn’t realize anything was wrong, until she wouldn’t answer my calls. She doesn’t stay mad at me for very long. We went to investigate her hotel, when one of my men spotted you asking the desk clerk about her. We decided to follow you here, trust me, that wasn’t easy.” “Well, I’m glad you did.” Rhe-A calculated her words carefully. “A time may come, when we may have to call on the governments of the world to help save the planet.” “If you do your best to save my daughter, I guarantee my .” Jay took Shelly from her mother’s arms, and picked her up. “Abigail, we need to go. I still have your cell number; I will keep you informed.” Abigail stood up. “Jay, are you an Atlantean?” “Nope, just have a few of their genes.” The Colonel smiled, and leaned forward to kiss Shelly’s forehead. The tingling of the force field made her twitch. “Go, and God’s speed.” Jay carried her through the next room, and to the window seal. He stepped up, and then off into nothing. Abigail gasped. Rhe-A turned back. “We will keep you apprised of her condition. the brain was not damaged or deprived of oxygen. Once I can isolate the extra invasion, I’m confident I can levy an antidote.” “Thank you. Uh, what is your name?” “Rhe-A.” “Rhea.”

“Close enough.” “I always thought that was a pretty name.” She looked as though she had another question. “Is there something else?” “No, I just thought you people would be taller.” Rhe-A smirked, stepped on the ledge and disappeared.

Chapter Twenty: Worst One Ever The shuttle bay door opened, and a prepared medical crew came and took Shelly to Rhe-A’s laboratory. John and Athene-A met Jay and Rhe-A as they came out into the hangar. Athene-A hugged Jay. “How was your...vacation?” John sarcastically asked. “Worst one ever,” Jay replied, releasing his Grandmother. “Still didn’t get to see the sights.” John turned to Rhe-A, who, uncharacteristically looked away, as if embarrassed. “Thanks for bringing him home in one piece.” Rhe-A looked surprised at the praise. “You can thank the Great Creator for that. He doesn’t follow instructions very well. You have read the preliminary report?” “I watched most of it. You did well, now we need a personal briefing. Shall we go to your lab?” “Go on ahead,” Jay said. “I’m starving.” “Well, let’s get you something to eat,” Athene-A said, as if he were nine years old again. “She acts really strange when he’s around, like some kind of regression,” John said, watching them walk away. “We all do,” Rhe-A said, and then started walking toward her lab.

Shelly lay on a table. The bots had removed her blood-stained clothes, and cleaned and sterilized the new larger stasis field. The bots placed a white, tissue regeneration blanket on her. John walked up to the table as Rhe-A went to her instruments. He couldn’t help but feel the same way he did when his mother was in stasis after the accident in Settler’s Field, that took so many lives.

“How much time do you have to do surgery once the field comes down?” “None, her body functions stopped when I initiated the field. I’m going to do stasis surgery.” “Isn’t that risky?” “Always, since most instruments interfere with the field and overload. I will have to lower small sections of the most critical areas, and do repairs by conventional means. This could take a while.” “You are the best. I have complete confidence in you.” “Thank you...my confidence...has wavered recently.” John looked her in the eyes. “You made the right decision. Never be afraid to preserve life when you can. If she survives, we may have a viable physical link to the US government, and with that, a link to the rest of the world’s governments. The more I study our situation, the more I believe, that if we’re going to have a chance, we’re going to need their help for the battle. Why were we guided to this particular planet so far from our home? Why here?” John trailed off, talking more to himself than to Rhe-A. He looked down at the sleeping beauty. “She looks like-“ “You are right. I thought it best not to tell Jay this was a person in a Temporal Dissociated state. He might make different decisions, or react differently to future situations, if he knew who she really was. Of course, all this depends on whether I’m successful, or not.” “Alright,” Jay said loudly, as he came into the room with a drink and very large sandwich, “is she awake, yet? I brought her a sandwich, too.” “No, Jay,” Rhe-A sadly said. “The situation is dire; it will take all my skills to save her. But it will take time. I’ll do my best.” He walked over to the stasis field, and put the extra sandwich down next to her. “Can I stay?” Jay asked, not looking away. “I can operate with multiple distractions.”

“That, means, yes, Jay,” John said, taking his arm and leading him to a row of computer consoles. Rhe-A continued programming, even when Delphi-Apollo and Athene-A walked in. Apollo made his way to Rhe-A and excepted instructions. He gave Jay a wave and continued with preparations. Athene-A sat down on the other side of Jay. They were quiet for some time. Jay slowly chewed. His attention was drawn to Drof’s family journal that sat on the console in front of him. His mind flashed back to his first history/memory link. He put his hand on the ancient book. “Jay, is there something wrong?” John asked. He didn’t say anything at first. “You don’t suppose you-Gramps, uh, you, kept a journal, do you?” “I...I don’t know.” John looked confused. “If the history/memory is linked to only a few, then something must be tying things together. I think you might’ve left a journal behind to give us a direction. Of course, all the mention of tracker skulls has to be the prize. We need to go back to Vegas.” Luminescent colors flashed against Rhe-A’s face as she struggled to stay ahead of the poison. Apollo worked on repairing physical tissue, while she fought to control the poison’s deadliest effects. It was literally eating away flesh and bone. If left unchecked, there would be nothing left of a body. “John, I’ve isolated the pathogen. It’s genetic in nature. Call Maya, I may need her expertise.” “Right away.” He flicked a finger at a computer. “When do we leave?” “You are not, and neither is Grandma. If Pops saw you two, he’d have a stroke. Plus, I’ll have to go the conventional way, so I don’t draw any more attention to myself.” “I understand, but the Destroyers know who you are now, you’ll need protection outside this facility.” “Well, pick somebody.” Jay heard a sizzle, and then the smell of singed flesh. He turned toward the surgical procedure, only to see Maya standing behind him.

“Jeez!” He jumped up and backed away. Her coal black hair was split down the middle and the ends hung just below the ears. Her blood black eyes stared at him like waiting for that long-awaited steak at a restaurant. He saw no fangs when she smiled at him from a silky alabaster face, a discernible contrast from the normal Atlantean tan skin. Her eyes retreated to blue, while she spoke, “Rhe-A, you called.” “Yes,” she said, without looking up. “I have a new genetic pathogen I need identified.” Maya strolled over to the operating table so gracefully, Jay wasn’t even sure she took steps. “Hum, she looks like-” “We’ve ascertained that,” Rhe-A cut her off. “Now, time matters in this case.” Maya’s anger slightly flared, but she understood, knowing this would be easier if they talked mentally, but she knew Rhe-A would never let her in. She rarely ever let anyone in. Maya quickly pulled up her own screen and began manipulating with her mind and hands. “Interesting, a Destroyer construct. A phasic nanite that duplicates enormously fast. Using the living tissue as fuel and replication. The agoam crystal powered stasis field seems to disrupt their activities.” “Replication application?” “If you hadn’t stopped the progress, she would have disintegrated, and then replicated. So, all the repairs you’ve made have been useless.” It was Rhe-A’s turn to flare. But, ever the professional, she said, “That’s why I called you.” Maya smirked. “I will have to remove each nanite individually, as I go, and then you may repair the damage.” “Understood.” Apollo watched the exchange as if a spectator in a boxing match. “Shall we begin,” he said, hoping to break the competitive tension. An updated DD-218 slipped silently out of the ceiling. Its flat teardrop shape

extended tiny tentacles. It let Maya manipulate them along the wound. Rhe-A followed with her own tentacles, replacing tissue as fast as Maya could remove the contaminated cells. Soon, it became another competition. Apollo threw up his hands and walked away. John and Athene-A stopped their stateside trip plans, as he walked up. “What’s wrong?” an overly concerned Jay, asked. “Those two are at it again.” “Progress?” Athene-A asked. “The nanites are phasic cell replicators. Much longer and she would’ve been replicated.” “Great, now we can add body snatchers to the list,” Jay remarked. “How much longer?” Apollo looked back at the two. Their eyes and hands darted around dramatically. The machine struggled to keep up with their frantic pace. “I would guess fifteen point two-three minutes.” Jay half smiled. “Also, these replicants could possibly be possessed by a Destroyer.” “How can we discern who’s real and who isn’t?” John asked. “I was working on that, should have a prototype device in an hour.” John waved a hand. “Aidan, prepare a shuttle.” “Understood,” came the disembodied voice. “Whoa, if I suddenly appear in the states, people are going to get very suspicious. I’ll fly back, look around, see what I can find. See if Pops knows anything, fly back. Shouldn’t take more than a week.” “Alright, JJ, we’ll make the arrangements,” Athene-A stared down at Jay. “Tomorrow, you need rest.” “But Grandma.”

“No butt’s, I know best.” Jay relented. “Okay, as soon as I find out about Shell.” “She will live,” Maya said, suddenly behind Jay. “Damn it! Stop doing that.” Rhe-A set a small cylindrical container on the console. Its orange glow and swirl reminded Jay of the faux lava of the past. “This is what they are using. Quite ingenious.” “Can you create an antidote?” John asked. “Not necessary. Our close association with agoam radiation makes Terrahanian Atlanteans inaccessible.” “What about our Cousins?” Athene-A asked. “It seems the pathogen was designed for the little ones. Because of its diversity, I would have to inoculate over eight billion different people. The weapon is designed to destroy the existing person, and replace them with a more suitable host, everything is copied, even the memories and emotions. The replicated may not even know it has happened to them.” “Start work on a widespread inoculation. We have to try to protect as many Cousins as possible from this, not only for their safety, but our own.” John ordered. “Now, for another question: Should we wake Ms. Masters here, or...elsewhere?” “She might have information we need,” Jay quickly said. “She was able to fend off the Destroyer influence. Warrants further study,” RheA added. Maya stepped forward. “She is still a simple Cousin. Her mind may not accept reality, and all our work will be for nothing.” “She has a valid point,” John said, drawing a glare from Rhe-A.

“Maybe, I could ease her into the transition,” Jay said, looking in her direction. “We’ll need Council approval,” John said, getting up, and moved toward the door. “But, if she were to awaken before we got back...well, you know.” He smiled, and waved everyone on. “The ‘eye’ symbol above the stasis field will release and revive her,” Rhe-A softly said, as she slowly walked by Jay. Jay stood over her lifeless body. He studied the astral symbols for a few seconds, and then touched it. The stasis field, almost unnoticeably dissipated. He waited, trying to figure out what he was going to say. Her eyes fluttered lightly, and then opened. He put a hand on her shoulder. “Hey, welcome back.” Her hand went to her chest. She took it away and looked at it. “Wha...what happened?” “What’s the last thing you ?” “I...I was shot.” She again, put her hand to her chest. She began looking around, getting her balance back. “I saw my mother.” “Yes, you’re right. Good, it seems your memory is intact.” She sat up quickly, holding the cell regenerating blanket close. “Where am I?” “Okay, okay, settle down. I have a lot of explaining to do.” “Why did the Professor shoot me? Is my Mother, okay?” “She’s fine, and waiting on my call to let her know you’re alright.” “Well, let’s call her.” “I have to explain something first.” “I have to-” “Shell, shut up!” Jay took her by the shoulders and looked in her eyes. “You were dead.”

She stopped, as if knowing the truth. “Jay, please tell me what’s going on.” “It’s going to be hard to believe, you’ve got to listen to me, without interrupting. Got it.” She nodded. He hopped up on the table beside her. “Do you my Gramps?” “Yes, Mr. Rodgers was always nice to me. Why?” “Do you that crazy story I told you, that one he told me about Atlantis?” “Yes,” she skeptically said. “Well, the funny thing is-it’s all true.” She was quiet, and then burst out laughing. “Jay, you always did have a great sense of humor.” “Great, you’re laughing at me, maybe I’m crazy, but everyone’s in ‘crazy world’ with me.” “Seriously, if you wanted to get me out of my cloths, you could’ve just asked.” “Wait, look, we’re getting off point. Just listen, there’s a war going on between Atlanteans and Destroyers. We, Cousins, humans, are caught in the middle. Professor Snodgrass is the enemy. You found an artifact, and he thought you had information about Atlanteans.” She stopped smiling, and took a long look around. “So, this is Atlantis?” “No, this is Chrysalis, let’s call it an outpost. Atlantis is a space ship far from here, right now.” “Ooohh, right. I think I want to go home now.” “Take a closer look around. We have nothing near this technologically advanced.” He waved a hand over several symbols, and pulled up a threedimensional view of several news reports from all over the world.

“Wow.” She slowly slid off the table and stepped over to the life like hologram, waving a hand through it. “That’s nothing, you should see the car. I want you to meet them.” “What? They’re alive? Not imaginary,” sounding even more skeptical. He rolled his eyes and stood up. “This is tougher than I thought.” He took his cell phone out of his pocket and dialed a number. He manipulated a few symbols on the console and a woman answered. A 3-D image of a woman in uniform now stood where the news anchors used to be. “Hello, Jay, is this you?” “Yes, Mrs. Masters. Are you alone?” “Standby.” The image showed her walking into an empty room. “Momma.” Jay held up his hand for Shelly to be quiet. “Okay, we can talk now.” “I have someone here that wants to speak to you.” He took the phone and set it on the operating table. “Momma.” “Shell, Baby, are you alright?” Shelly didn’t know whether to speak to the phone, or the image. Finally, she spoke to the 3-D image. “Yes, Momma, I’m fine.” Jay saw, and heard a sigh of relief. “Mrs. Masters, the line is secure, obviously the operation was a success, but she’s having a difficult time believing me about our friends. We feel she may have information that could help us against the Destroyers. Can you convince her to trust us?” “I’ll try. Shell, Honey, I know this is difficult.” The 3-D image paced in front of her. “But, listen to your heart. You were mortally wounded. The Atlanteans

offered to help you. I know about them. I’ve been working on a special assignment to find them. It seems they have found me. Jay, can we trust them?” “With our very existence.” “Shell, I’m asking you to trust Jay.” “Okay, Momma.” “Jay, I was ordered back to the states for a debrief. I can’t keep a lid on this much longer before the Pentagon finds out.” “Hold them off for a few more days. I have to come back to retrieve something...important. I’ll bring Shell with me.” “Good, thank you, Jay, and thank Rhea for me.” “I will.” “Shell, I have to go. I love you. Trust Jay. See you soon.” She hung up. The image turned around as if someone had came into the room, and then winked out. Shelly wondered around the laboratory, picking up instruments, which Jay took away and put back. “Where am I, again?” She asked, wrapping the blanket closer around herself. “Frankenstein’s laboratory.” Jay smiled. “Close enough. Chrysalis, a secret lair for the Atlanteans. They saved your life, after Professor Snodgrass shot you.” “You’ve been helping them?” “They want your help, also.” “What can I offer an advanced civilization?” “Well, the fact that you haven’t gone crazy, or just shut down from all this information overload, could be valuable to them. I asked them to include you.” She moved closer to him. “I you fighting to have them save me. Thank you. I’ll do whatever you ask.” She hugged him.

“All I ask, is that you keep an open mind. Don’t get overwhelmed. They are on our side, and most are actually friendly.” “What information do they think I might have. I don’t even know what’s going on.” Jay took a deep breath. “For thousands of years, an alien population has vowed to destroy any civilization that achieves space exploration beyond its own solar system. The Atlanteans have been able to avoid them. Until now, the mother ship has been chasing Atlantis since it was discovered...a long time ago. A lot of Atlanteans were left behind during the escaped when the Destroyers discovered it here on Earth. Thinking that Atlantis will return for them. The Destroyers lay in wait to annihilate everyone at the same time. A detachment was left behind to spy on us, and Atlanteans. They experiment with us; the results are terrible. But, over the course of time, their behavior has been changing, and their activities are becoming more and more obvious. Before the Destroyers got here, a defense grid was built across the solar system. It may have enough power to combat these creatures.” “What does this have to do with me?” “Well, the defense grid has to have a key to operate. The key has been lost over the millennia. There are thirteen smaller keys that can reveal the location of the primary key. We need to find these thirteen crystal skulls.” “You mean, like some of the crystal skulls that we found in the Amazon?” “Yes, but there are many fakes, and the real ones are hard to detect and distinguish from the others.” “So, in order to fight super aliens, we need access to a super weapon.” “Yes,” Jay threw up a hands in the form of an American football signal. “I still don’t see how I can help.” She strolled over to the operating table and sat on it. “The weapon, the skull keys, much of Atlantis, and this facility run off of agoam crystals. You seem to have a knack for being able to...feel its radiation.”

“You mean the artifact I found?” “Yes, that was some long-forgotten left behind technology. The agoam crystals can be reused. The Destroyers need it, also. That’s why they came after you.” “Beep...beep...beep... Jay looked around, wondering what was causing the noise. John’s voice came over the comm, “Jay, the Council has made its decision. May we come in?” “Uh, yes, but only a few to start with.” “Understood.” A smaller portion the main door slid aside to let John, Athene-A, and Rhe-A, enter. They approached as if approaching a skittish wild animal. John stepped up. “The Council approved all our research requests. That includes waking our...” he looked over at Shelly, “sleeping beauty.” “Sleeping beauty was a brunette. Who are you?” Jay ran interference. “This is Chief Councilor John-Anee-Athain, and my Grandfather.” “Your Grand-” “Now, I said, keep an open mind. I’ll explain later.” John held out his hand. “Pleased to meet you again, although I don’t our first encounters, Ms. Masters.” She slowly took his hand and shook it. “And this is Athene-A.” She moved around John and shook her hand. Shelly looked up, studying her features, and shook her hand. “Athena.” “Close enough. Why did you break my Grandson’s heart?” Shelly quickly let go.

“Grandma!” Jay looked at the confused look on Shelly’s face. “Same long story, later.” He turned back to Athene-A. “We’re taking this slow, right?” “Yes, yes, I don’t know what came over me, I’m sorry.” Jay changed the direction of the conversation. “You might Rhe-A.” Shelly gave her an evil glare. “My Mother told me to thank you, for her. But I you stalling to save me, and having to be persuaded to help me. You were going to let me die.” “We have protocols,” Rhe-A stiffly said. “Humph.” Jay slipped in between them. “Alright, now that introductions are over, how about we prepare for tomorrow’s trip.” Shelly got up and walked around Rhe-A and Jay. “Is there some place I can buy some clothes?” Athene-A held out a hand. “Come, Dear, you’re going to love this.” Shelly took her hand and let Athene-A lead her to a distant corner of the lab. “Uh, she’s different,” John said, as he watched them go. “Gramps liked her, maybe because she is as crazy as he was-is.” John smiled. “I can’t let you go back to the United States alone. I’m sending Apollo and Rhe-A with you two.” “I’m still not sure that’s wise,” Rhe-A said. “It’s perfect, besides, the Council has made its decision.” “I’m on the Council.” “You were out voted.” She gave up and moved to her large console.

John looked at the door. “Maya, Apollo, come in.” They came in, looking to their right at Athene-A showing Shelly how to use the replication device. All manner of styles of clothing were being sifted through. “She seems to be adapting quickly,” Maya commented. “Yes, remarkable. Maybe our Cousins have reached the threshold of acceptance that there’s more to this universe than themselves.” “Some, perhaps,” Maya remarked. “Apollo, would you accompany Rhe-A, Jay, and Shelly to the United States to retrieve what information I might have left behind?” John asked, looking up at the almost eight-foot-tall man. “Of course, any chance to get out of this tomb.” “Good, thank you. You two should introduce yourselves to our newest ally.” “You literally have all the latest fashions from all over the world,” Apollo could hear Shelly say, as he walked up to them. “You must have access to their computers.” “There’s not much technology we don’t know, or can’t find out,” Apollo said, from behind the two. Shelly turned and slowly looked up, dropping her jaw, and almost dropping her blanket. She gazed up at a tan muscular God, with short cropped black hair, a white knee length tunic, and mesmerizing ice blue eyes. Athene-A put her hand on Shelly’s shoulder, and said, “Ms. Shelly Masters, this is Delphi-Apollo, Our resident navigation, propulsion, astrophysicist, and sometimes, medic. Apollo, this is Shelly.” She unconsciously put out her hand, which was soon drowning in his. “You’re so...tall.” “Dial back the charm, handsome,” Maya quipped, “Their small brains can’t handle it.”

Shelly flared with anger. “Who are you calling a small brain,” she said moving toward Maya. “I am,” Maya said, with eyes black blood red, and fangs drawn with a hiss. “Eeek,” Shelly squealed, and ducted behind Athene-A. “Maya! be civilized,” Athene-A sternly said. “But she smells so good. Please, just one taste.” “You know they’re still off limits.” “Understood,” she teasingly, dejectedly responded. Athene-A pulled Shelly from behind her. “Shelly, this is Maya-A-Toltek. Maya, Shelly.” “The Mayan Red Queen?” “I’ve been called worse,” she said, putting away her fangs and readjusting her eyes. “At least she’s not any more insane than we are.” She glided back over to John. “Here, try this on,” Athene-A said, waving a hand. The garment appeared folded and pressed from the machine. She put it to her face and smelled it. Her smile was infectious. She dropped her blanket in front of Apollo, who, barely flinched at her brazenness. She quickly slipped on the light blue dress which sported a multi-colored flower pattern streaming around its fluffy torso. Its open back gave way to dark blue vertical lines. The front was close to the neck with a gold leaf pattern. It fit her comfortably. She spun around. “Worthy of Aphrodite, herself,” Apollo iringly said. “Shall I give you a tour of our facility?” She looked over at Jay discussing strategy with Rhe-A, and then looked up. “Yes, I would very much like a tour.” “Apollo,” Athene-A gave him a warning look, “it will be a long day for them

tomorrow. Not too much, too fast.” “Understood.” He held out his arm. She took his massive forearm, like a child reaching for a parent, and strolled out. Jay looked up, noticing her attire, while she was being escorted away. She gave him a, nose up look, as they went by. “I don’t know which one of them I’m more worried about,” he said, half under his breath. “Yes, remarkable,” John said, “She caught on fast.”

Jay woke out of his fitful dream to a beeping noise. He rolled over, and looked around his spacious room, at least he thought it was spacious for an underground facility. The habitat section was almost complete. There were no cave walls exposed. Smooth silver-gray surfaces took its place. He sat up to empty the fog from his head. “Alarm off.” The incessant beeping stopped. He went to the bathroom, wondering what half the equipment was used for, so he dealt with the ones he knew. He finished his water shower, hearing the beeping again, he grabbed a towel, and walked into the kitchen area. A full, hot, American breakfast sat, complete with coffee. He stood their holding his towel, searching for the off switch. “Alarm off,” Rhe-A said, standing in the living room, looking into the kitchen area. “Whoa,” Jay squeaked, spinning around, and gripping the towel a little tighter. “Don’t you people knock?” “All areas on this facility are open, unless you specify otherwise.” “Now, you tell me.” Rhe-A moved a little closer, and softened her tone. Her knee length, two-piece, gray skirt and blouse, appeared more business-like than casual travel ware. “I was asked to see if you had everything you needed.” Shelly walked into the room with a more utilitarian shirt and pants. She stopped

behind Rhe-A. “A little privacy,” Jay sarcastically said. “Oh...” She stopped and looked at the both of them. “Jay, what’s going on?” “I’m trying to get ready to go, but I keep getting interrupted.” “Is that what they call it, now?” Shelly walked past Rhe-A. “No, nothing like that. She just came by to escort me to the hangar bay.” “Uh hum.” She moved in close to him and put her arms around his neck. “Unless you want to delay our departure time,” she purred seductively. He slipped out of her embrace. “I think we’re under time constraints.” He scurried to his bedroom. “I believe we can find our way to the hangar bay, by ourselves.” Rhe-A showed no emotion at the snub. “As you wish. We leave within the hour.” She turned and left without so much as a look back. Jay emerged with his usual jeans, sneakers, polo shirt with a tee-shirt underneath. “Where’s Rhe-A?” he asked, as he went to the table and poured himself some more coffee. “Um, she went on ahead.” Jay sat at a small table. Shelly came around and sat across from him. “I want to thank you for saving me.” “I care about you, I don’t want to see you hurt,” he said, between bits. “I care for you, too.” Jay couldn’t miss her pushing harder to rekindle their relationship. She had hurt him badly several times before. He didn’t know if he wanted to try again. He, of course had hurt her, also. With what was going on, he wasn’t sure if he could handle both, saving the world and a relationship now that his life had so dramatically changed. “So, how did your tour go?” “Chrysalis is an amazing facility, and big.”

“Nothing like Atlantis. Oh, yah, this stuff tastes just like the real thing. Apollo seems nice.” “He’s the perfect Gentleman. I can’t believe how old everyone is.” “Age, to them, is a bit irrelevant, especially when you spend so much time in a temporal suspension state.” “Oh, no technical jargon. My head almost exploded last night when Apollo tried to explain things.” Jay smiled. “I know what you mean.” “Jay,” she said putting her hand on her chin, “have you and Rhe-A had...sex?” He almost choked on his eggs. He coughed, and then took a sip of coffee. “Ah, what, no. Why do you ask?” “The way she looks at you.” “She looks at me like I’m a lab rat in a maze.” “She may be Atlantean, but she’s still a woman. I can tell.” “Well, I think your spidey sense is off this time.” “Do you have feelings for her?” Jay hesitated. “We’re soldiers in a war, comrades. I trust her.” Shelly didn’t look convinced. He wiped his mouth and gathered his dishes. “We need to get going. We’re going to be late. If anything, Atlanteans are punctual.” He grabbed his bag, and led her out of the room.

“We should stick together,” Jay said to Shelly as the door slid open to the hangar bay. “I think I should go on ahead to Washington. My Mother has a short window before they ship-” She stopped in her tracks, and stared at Apollo, who, was now

the size of normal man. Her attention then moved to the Minotaur towering next to him. Jay kept walking. “Aidan,” Jay high fived him, and a fist bump. “Glad you came to see me off.” “I wish I was going with you, but, alas, I’ll just be piloting today.” He turned to Shelly. “This is Ms. Masters?” “Yes. Shell, this is Aidan. Aidan, Shell.” He held out a giant hand. She slowly took it. “Pleased to meet you.” “Um...Um...pleased to meet you, too.” She took her other hand and rubbed the fur on his arm. Realizing she was being watched, she quickly pulled back. Aidan let out a howling laugh, with a slight whistle at the end. Jay snickered. She slapped his shoulder, soliciting even more laughter. “Shouldn’t we be going,” she said, while walking around them, almost running into a Centaur technician. “Jay,” John said, while finishing up instructions to a Medusan. “I’ve decided to send Maya with you as backup.” “Expecting trouble?” “Always.” The group mingled around the shuttle bay, packing and checking equipment, while Aidan and Athene-A performed a preflight check. The craft disappeared before coming out of the mountain. It only took a few minutes for all to get seated in the rusty old taxi. The landing bay door opened, launching the vehicle onto a winding street. John maneuvered the car as if born to it. “Everybody has the plan, right? Get in, get what we need. Get to Washington, set up a liaison with the US Government, and get out, simple. Simple is good.” Apollo just looked up. “Simple, has never been your style, John.” The taxi pulled up to the Athens International Airport drop-off zone. “Alright, , we are a call away. Stay in touch.”

They grabbed their respective bags, and made their way to the security check point. Presenting their forged ports and tickets. The camouflaged security guards didn’t give them a second glance. All their equipment, and themselves, went through the security scanners with ease. The only indication of trouble was a skittish security dog. The handler quickly reigned him in as the group gathered their things, and proceeded to the gate. The first-class cabin was spacious. Maya pretended to be the ditzy damsel in distress, drawing lots of male attention. They clamored about trying to help her with her bag, where to sit, and her seat belt. She laughed, and played them like a fine musical instrument. Rhe-A just shook her head as she roughly squeezed by. Jay and she stopped at their row. “Rhe-A, you’re unusually quiet. Do you want the window seat?” “Yes, it might make for an easier escape from this crude technological death trap.” “Shh, you might want to find Rhea Wilkenson, and stop being so...analytical.” They sat down, giving room for Shelly and Apollo to sit down across the aisle from them. “Okay, Jay, I’ll give it might best try,” she flippantly said, flicking her, now, blonde hair back, making her extra bosom jiggle. Jay looked at the ceiling. “God help me. This is going to be a long trip.” He looked over at Shelly, who sat glaring at him. Thirty minutes into the flight, Rhe-A still had a death grip on the armrest, and stared straight ahead. “Rhea, you need to relax,” Jay quietly said. She stared at the back of the seat in front of her that showed only ments. “What are you doing?” “I’m going over all the manufactures specifications for this aircraft, modifications, and all maintenance records for the past five years.” “Ah, the lenses, again.” The flight attendant came by. “Oh, Miss, can we get a Bloody Mary and a Fuzzy Navel, uh, make that a double, please.” She nodded and retreated. “Now, turn that thing off and relax. Watch a movie,

something distracting. The plane shook, causing Rhe-A to grab is hand, squeezing the blood out of it. “Just a little turbulence.” Her eyes were squeezed shut when the drinks arrived. “Thank you,” he said to the Flight Attendant, after she set the drinks down. She smiled and nodded, and then moved to Shelly and Apollo. Jay felt Shelly watching him, and was now flirting with Apollo. Her giggles and laughs, made him glad she had a distraction. “Here, drink this.” “You know alcohol has very little affect on-me, unless it was made by Dionysus.” “Well, turn off the inhibitor, or whatever, and try.” She concentrated for a few seconds, and then gulped the drink down, motioning for another. An hour later, Rhe-A was leaning back in a light restless sleep. Jay remove her death grip from his hand. He got up to go to the bathroom. He ed by Maya, who was still drinking, and carrying on with two men. She glanced, and smiled at him on his way by. He skirted a few people and bumped into another Flight Attendant. He apologized. He stared at her face. It was blurred, or what he thought was double exposed film on a black and white aura. She smiled, accepted the apology, and moved on. Jay blinked away the vision, and shook it off as, too many drinks. He returned to his seat, to find Shelly sitting in it. She gave him a confrontational look. He took her seat next to Apollo. “You look confused?” Apollo asked Jay, as he put on his seatbelt. “I...I thought I saw something...” He dismissed it. “What are you doing?” “Catching up on current events, world politics, wars, global weather patterns, and the most popular, tabloids.” “Really.” “I was in the TSD for a long time.” “Oh, well, don’t let me interrupt.” He smiled his infectious smile, and went back to staring into space.

Jay leaned back, closing his eyes. He wondered how all this was ever going to work.

Chapter Twenty-One: Crystal Skulls “Wha...What,” Jay slurred, after Apollo lightly shook him. “We’re about to land, a request for stowing tray tables and seats upright, has been announced.” Jay raised his seat back up, and looked ed Apollo at the city lights of Las Vegas through the window. The pyramid light blazed through the air, into space. Shelly reached over flicked Rhe-A’s seat up, startling her awake. She glanced around quickly, realizing where she was. Her hair was mussed, and make up slightly smeared. “Rhe-A, we’re crashing!” Shelly barked. “What!” Her eyes were now wide open. Shelly laughed, indicating to her that she was the joke. “Funny,” she said, rubbing her forehead. The plane touched down, giving her another start, eliciting a giggle from Shelly. They soon gathered their bags, made their way off the aircraft, and out of the airport. A limousine pulled up, expelling a black suited driver. Drof smiled, and tipped his limo driver’s hat. “Glad for the backup, Drof,” Rhe-A remarked, while getting in the car. Jay helped him load their bags. The sun was already brightening the city buildings. Jay sat up front and took out his cell phone, he just stared at it. “Something wrong, Jay?” Drof asked. “It’s just that...I haven’t spoken to my father, since Gramps died. We were so...angry. Angry at the world. I’m not sure what to say.” “We all grieve in different ways, but it appears you two grieve in the same way,” Drof remarked. Jay smirked, and then made the call.

“Hello, hello.” “Hello, Pops.” “Jay, is that you?” “Yes, it is.” “How are you?” “Oh, you know, busy, always in trouble.” “Where are you?” “I’m back in town, there’s an...archaeology convention...look, Pops, I wanted to say I’m sorry about the way we left it.” “...well, I, uh, I wasn’t very pleasant, either. I’m sorry, too.” More silence. “Say, do you have a place to stay?” “Not at the moment, no.” “Good, you can come stay with me.” “I don’t want to impose; besides, I have friends from the dig sight from Greece, with me.” “Bring them, too. You know there’s room.” “Okay, I’ll ask.” Silence. “Um, Pops, I told them about the skull collection Gramps had. They all want to see them.” “You left before the reading of the will. Your Aunt Helen got his house. You and I got some money. He left you his memorabilia, and other collections, including those hideous stone skulls. Your Aunt moved it all into the garage. I’m sure she will be happy to be rid of it.” “Good, we’ll go there, now.” “I’ll call her, and let her know she’s going to have company. She’ll be excited to see you. I’ll be there as soon as I can get away from the construction site. Damn

overruns, and Unions. It’s a wonder anything gets built around here.” “Okay, we’ll see you soon.” “See you soon.” Jay pushed a button, and just stared at the phone. “That went well,” Drof said. “Yah, it did.” Jay pulled up the address for his Gramp’s old house and set the GPS for Drof to follow.

The car pulled into the long driveway. The older part of Vegas had bigger houses on larger plots of land. A flood of memories came back to him. His last days he spent with his Grandfather, were here. But he got him back, he wasn’t the same, but he got him back. His Aunt Helen was already coming out of the front door, with a smile. She was ten years younger than her brother, John. She had a heavyset frame, with ice gray hair, that used to be jet black. Her overly red lips and 50’s style glasses, made Jay feel like he was home. “Jay!” Her arms out, as she waddled toward him. “Auntie Helen,” he said, stooping, and embracing her. “Oh, I’ve missed you.” “And I’ve missed you, too, and your peach cobbler.” She lightly tapped him on the shoulder. “Come, all of you, inside, out of the heat.” They filed in; “Aunt Helen, this is Apollo.” She looked up at the bronze figure. He took her hand and kissed the back of it. “Most pleased to make the acquaintance of the Aunt, of my colleague.” “Oh my,” she blushingly said, with her other hand up to her cheek.

Jay lightly pushed him further inside. “He’s not from the US.” “Obviously,” Helen remarked, as he went ed. “Pleased to meet you,” Maya said, and then took her hand. “This is Maya.” “Oh, such a pretty name,” Helen squeamishly said, feeling her cold hand, and looking into her dead eyes. She stared at her as she moved ed. She turned her attention to Shelly. “Shell, Dear. It’s been a long time.” “Yes, it has, Miss Helen. How are you?” she asked, while hugging her. “I’m fine,” She leaned back. “Have you lost weight? Doesn’t the Institute feed its employees?” “You are too kind.” She turned her attention to Rhe-A. “Rhea? Hello. I didn’t know you were a nurse and an archeologist?” “Um, Jay was in town, and he gave me a call,” she vaguely answered. “Come here.” She gave her a healthy hug. “I wanted to thank you for what you did for my brother. His final days were comfortable.” She wasn’t sure what to say. “I...I didn’t do much.” “More than you know, Dear.” Helen noticed the tension between Shelly and Rhe-A. She moved to a tall dark-skinned man in a typical black chauffeur’s suit. He removed his hat to reveal a bald head. She gazed a little confused at his presents. “Jay never was one to leave anybody out. Welcome.” “Aunt Helen, this Drof Avion. He’s a...tour guide pilot, who moonlights as a chauffeur for the Institute. Part of the family.” “Please come in, you’re more than welcome.” Jay shut the door, ushered everyone into the living room, and gave them seats.

“Jay be a good host, and offer your friends a drink. This house is as much yours as it is mine.” “Yes, Ma’am.” He disappeared into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator to a multiple of choices. “Hey! What do you guys want?” Helen closed her eyes and shook her head. “Honestly, we have tried to teach him manners, and etiquette.” The group, either smiled, or outright laughed. He came back in holding as many beers as he could carry. He noticed that he was the center of attention. “What?” This elicited a laugh from all of them. “Whatever.” “Squawk, I need a beer,” a cockatoo in a cage in the corner of the room said, drawing everyone’s attention. “Oh, that’s Captain Jack, don’t mind him. I was in need of some company,” Helen explained. Jay mingled through the crowd and handed out the beer, until he got to Rhe-A, who, held up a hand, and quickly said, “Water, please.” Jay smiled this time. Once everyone had their drinks, and solidified their cover stories, Jay finally brought up the subject that brought them there. “Aunt Helen, as archeologist, I would like to show my colleagues, Gramp’s crystal skull collection.” “Oh, but of course. He left it all to you. I put it in the garage. Please take some of it with you, or I’ll have to get a storage building.” “Thanks, Aunt Helen. I’ll have Pops hook you up with a storage building. I’m still traveling light these days.” “How about sandwiches for lunch.” Before anyone could refuse, she said, “I’ll get started on them, have fun. Oh, you might want to open the garage door, it gets dreadfully hot in there.” “We will Aunt Helen,” Jay said, while motioning everyone to follow. Maya ed by the cage and looked in at the bird like a hungry cat. “Help me! Help me!” The bird leaned back and said.

“Maya, stop scaring the pets.” Jay said, waving her on. They went down a hallway to another door. Jay could feel the Afternoon heat emanating from it. He flicked on a light, and opened the door to a furnace. He maneuvered around a few boxes and hit the garage door switch. It opened to a cool light breeze, or as cool as a desert can be. It blew away most of the concentrated heat. The sunlight was blinding at first, but his eyes soon adjusted. His Aunt didn’t drive anymore, so they didn’t have to worry about a car being in the way. He found some lawn chairs and spread them about. “Okay folks grab a box and start searching. We’re looking for a journal and the skulls.” “Why don’t you let us scan the room?” Rhe-A asked. “Where’s the fun in that? The art of discovery no longer matters?” “Jay, can’t we just get this over with?” Shelly complained. “This heat’s doing terrible things to my hair.” “Fine, do as you wish.” He turned and went to a stack of boxes, none of which were labeled. Hours whittled away. The E-suits did their job of keeping them cool. The distraction of photo albums became center stage. Jay told story after story, interrupted only by an occasional arrow head, polished rock, or bone collection. Hundreds of books were quickly read by the Atlanteans, making progress slow. The evening was starting to get late. Jay was about to break down and have the room scanned, when he felt something, something pulling him closer. He looked under a work bench and saw a small gray metal foot locker. He pulled it out and opened it. “Hey guys. I found it.” They gathered around, as Jay took out a lump of newspaper. He unwrapped it to reveal a fist sized multi-colored crystal skull. Its squared off features was indicative of a forgery, but some forgeries were so good, even those brought in big money. Jay held it up to the lowering sun. He ed it off to Rhe-A, she stared intently at it, and then shook her head. Jay took out another. Same results. He got down to the last one of a dozen, and she shook her head again. Jay was deflated. He had no idea where to go next. “I have ran several spectral scans, and a few non-conventional ones. None of the skulls are tracker skulls, but faint traces of a tracker skull had been in there

presents,” Rhe-A recited. “So, does this mean I have to find thirteen more skulls, in order to find one tracker skull,” he sarcastically said. Rhe-A missed the sarcasm. “No, but it does mean John Rodgers was in possession of one.” Jay’s head dropped down. He was looking at the bottom of the empty container that had a thick piece of cardboard for a bottom. It had a badly drawn hieroglyphic eye on it. He poked at it, and one end raised up. He flicked it up to expose a book. “Found it.” It was then, Helen chose to open the door to a huge mess. “Jaayy!” She had her hands on her wide hips, and glared. “Sorry, Aunt Helen. We’ll clean it up, right away.” She looked across the group with dirt smudge marks on their arms and faces. The fancy clothes had dirt and dust spots, solidifying their stories as archeologist. “Come on in, lunch has turned to dinner.” They filed in ed her. “Jay, your father called and said he got held up at the construction site, but will be by later.” “Sounds like Pops. Let’s eat.” He put the journal, and skulls, back in the container, and then carried it into the house, elbowing the switch to close the garage door on his way. Helen had prepared a large meal, Jay suspected from the large freezer. He smelled cooked steaks before he even got to the living room. He set the box down, and made a beeline straight for the kitchen, followed closely by his Aunt. She caught him piling steaks on a plate. “Jay, see to your guests first.” “That’s okay, they’re all vegetarians. Just toss them a salad.” She didn’t find him humorous. “I’m not a vegetarian,” Maya said. “Make mine extremely rare, or just bring it

here.” “Not either,” Shelly piped up. “I have not had cow-” “Steak,” Shelly added quickly, as she elbowed Apollo. “Um, steak, in a long time.” “Yes, vegetarian,” Drof piped up. “I’m still a vegetarian,” Rhe-A said, loud enough for them to hear. “Phuss.” He dropped his plate, and began serving the others. Helen came out with a large bowl of salad. “Apollo, Dear, would you be kind enough to get the tray tables from that closet, please.” “Of course, Ma’am.” “Please call me Helen.” She flirted, putting the bowl on the large coffee table in the center of the room. Jay arrived with plates stacked across his arm like he was a waiter again. He sorted them out in a methodical order. New drinks, and they were settled. Jay pulled up a chair between Rhe-A and his Aunt. They were starting to eat, when Helen said, “Let us pray. Now, hold hands.” Jay took her hand automatically, and then held the other out for Rhe-A. She hesitated, but followed along. The others looked back and forth, and then took each other’s hand. “Lord, thank you for this food, and guests. Please, look after us all, amen.” “Amen, Sister!” Captain Jack squawked. Jay felt Rhe-A block her mind, but the feeling was warm, like her hand. When the prayer was over, she didn’t release it very quickly. Jay wasn’t sure what to make of that, so he let go, and began cutting his steak. “Jay,” his Aunt started, “did you find what you were looking for?” “Yes, we did. I also found an old journal Gramps left behind.”

“Really, I told him to write down some of his adventures. God knows he was always gone. Globe-trotting, like you. Except, his was for fun, and not for work. What did it say?” “Haven’t had time to read it, yet,” he said, between a mouth full of food. “What have you been doing since your Grandfather...ed?” “Same dig site outside of Athens. Just trying to piece together the who, what, when, and where.” “Sounds so exciting. If I were only twenty years younger.” “Sometimes it’s exciting.” He, and Shelly, exchanged glances. The meal went quickly. Helen went around and gathered the plates. She refused help, and went to the kitchen. “Maya,” Jay said softly, “I thought you couldn’t eat solid food?” “A few modifications over the years. My stomach can now be used as storage, until the hemoglobin is exhausted, then what’s left is regurgitated.” “Like a cat and a hair ball? Gross.” “That’s no worse than it coming out of-” “Shall we see what’s in the journal?” Apollo interrupted, to change the conversation. Jay took it out of the box and unbuckled the cover. At the top of the page was, ‘In the beginning’ in English. The rest was hieroglyphics. “Um, I can’t read the rest of this.” “Let me see,” Apollo said, holding out his hand. “This is interesting, it’s an early form of Atlantean.” “Atlantean?” Jay’s Aunt asked, stepping into the living room. “Plato’s Atlantis?” They looked at her like deer in headlights. “I do read, you know.” “Well, um,” Jay stuttered. “Yes, yes, we are trying to prove the existence of

Atlantis. Gramps and I talked about this before he-he probably copied it from somewhere. Hey, Aunt Helen, can we get some of that peach cobbler?” “Of course, Dear, with ice cream?” “You know it.” “Close, can you read it?” Apollo was already rifling through the pages. “So far, a sporadic of how we got here.” “Like the one Gramps told me.” “Similar, but this version is sporadic, incomplete, as if, he couldn’t some things.” He flicked the pages. Jay nervously got up and went to a large window to the backyard. The sun had set and only the brightest of stars could be seen over the Las Vegas landscape. Apollo stopped and read out loud. “It’s in American English, now.” Jay leaned down and read over his shoulder. “It describes his travels to Central America. Aztec and Mayan pyramids. It seems he had a special interest in the ancient city of Chichen Itza.” “Here you go,” Helen said, struggling with a large tray with bowls of cobbler and ice cream.” “Let me help you with that,” Apollo said, giving Jay the book, and coming to her rescue. “Thank you, now sit and enjoy.” Jay put the book back in the box, and coveted his prize. He sat down, taking only a few minutes to finish. “This is fantastic, nectar fit for a God,” Apollo said, and then looked around. “Amen, Sister,” Captain Jack added. “Oh, silly bird,” Helen said. She got up, grabbed a cloth, and went to put it over

his cage. “Help me. Help me,” the bird repeated, until it was completely covered. Jay smiled, until he saw everyone else sitting straight up and staring into space. “What the hell?” “Reading multiple inbound anomalies,” Rhe-A informed the group, and then put what little was left of her desert down on the table. “I read them, also. They are converging on our location. Must be Destroyers, or their associates.” Apollo stood up and finished his comment, “fight or flight?” “Jay what’s going on?” Helen asked. Jay looked at his Aunt. “I say flight, get my Aunt out of harm’s way.” “I concur,” Rhe-A said, while gathering up her things. Drof get the car prepared.” He put his hat on and ran to the front door, without saying anything. Before he could open it, his black E-suit quickly folded over his body. The helmet sealed just as he opened the door to a volley of gunfire. Bullets sprayed all around him as he was knocked back onto the floor. He rolled to one side and kicked the door shut. Jay ran to him and helped him up. “I’m alright,” Drof’s voice echoed. Maya ran to the window and shut the curtains. Her red E-suit was already in place. “We are completely surrounded.” Apollo’s yellow E-suit formed as he raced to guard the hallway from where the bedrooms and garage led. His SP-10 ready for action. “We only brought light weapons.” Shelly’s dress turned into a light pink E-suit as her eyes grew, while it started forming around her body. “Just think, or say helmet,” Rhe-A instructed, “and it will form over your head. Don’t panic, it’s designed to protect you from the vacuum of space, projectiles,

and most energy weapons.” By the time Rhe-A was done explaining her own dark blue E-suit stopped at her neck.” “Jay, what’s that you’re wearing?” His dark blue E-suit had just completed its transformation. “A new type of body armor, Aunt Helen,” Jay started, as he made her kneel behind the couch. He kneeled down with her and tried to explain. “I think Gramps discovered something important, and I think it’s in that box. There are bad people who want it. I’m so sorry I got you into this. Follow our instructions and we’ll get you out. Okay?” The fear was obvious, but she did not crack. “They are on the roof. Jay, one is coming through the utility room next to the kitchen,” Rhe-A said. “I’m on it.” He ran through the kitchen to the utility door. He could hear the break in. He was surprised when the door exploded in his face, luckily, the suit sensed the danger and formed the helmet just before the door impacted him. Slamming him back into the kitchen. He stopped sliding on the floor near the far wall with a door on top of him. Apollo heard a window shatter from one of the bedrooms down the garage hallway. He opened the door to gunfire. He returned fire, wounding the black clad assailant in the leg. He went down, dropping his weapon. Another stepped over him and fired. The bullets ricocheted, and drove him back a few steps. He fired again, sending a shot through a non vital area. Another came through the window. Apollo waited to be attacked, but the newcomer grabbed at his comrades and dragged them out the way they had come. Shelly screamed, and ducked behind the couch. Maya moved aside, as bullets blasted through the window splintering off the far wall. Rhe-A went to Jay, and helped him up, while, picking up the door and using its solidness as a barrier. Three black clad figures ran in. She waved a hand, sending the door back at them. The crash was loud and destructive. It smashed into the first one, knocking him backward out of the doorway he had just came through. On its way there, the door hit the stove, dislodging it, and rupturing a gas line. One assailant got through, and was quickly stunned down by Jay. “We need to leave, now,” Jay said, walking ed her and back into the living room.

“Agreed,” Rhe-A calmly said. “We should go out by way of the garage. Its closest to the limousine. Once inside, I don’t see weaponry that can harm us.” “Sounds like a plan.” Jay looked at Rhe-A for further instructions. “Maya, take point and get us out of here. Drof get the box to the car. Apollo, Jay, protect your Aunt and Shelly. I’ll cover the rear. Let’s go,” Rhe-A ordered. Maya burst into an empty dark garage. She waited for the others as they moved down the hallway, Drof was close behind with the box. Jay held his Aunt’s hand as they ed a closed bedroom door. Bullets sprayed through, knocking Jay down, again. He pushed his Aunt out of the line of fire. Apollo pushed through, flicked his wrist, causing an energy shield to form. He pushed the door open, and was met by a machine gun. The bullets were held in the shield in mid air. He flicked a hand, watching them, and the bullets, fly either out of a window, or through a wall. “Jay, are you injured?” “No, I’m fine, Apollo, just surprised.” He was up, and leading the two women into the garage. Rhe-A heard the commotion down the hall, and turned, she saw Jay go down. The pain on her face was evident only to the assailants that came through the kitchen. To keep from forming any sparks, she waved them off, smashing them unconscious against the far fall. The move also kept her pacifistic oath intact. “Rhe-A, let’s go,” Apollo whispered in her mind. A nod, and they ran down the hallway and into the garage, barricading the door behind them. “I detect twenty-three viable targets,” Maya said in full vampire mode. “We’ve got no stealth; they are jamming us somehow.” Helen gasped at the sight. “I’m surprised the lights are still on,” Drof remarked.

“Gramps has a backup generator, it seems this is not a very well coordinated attack, maybe last minute.” “Good, perhaps we can surprise them. Drof you’re with me.” Maya ordered. “Jay, right flank, Apollo, left, Aunt Helen, Shelly, Center. Rhe-A cover the rear. Box formation to the limo. Select, and coordinate your targets. Ready. Go!” Maya flicked open the garage door and began firing, black clad troops were unorganized, and fell in their tracks. The surprise didn’t last long. Bullets flooded in. The energy shielding never wavered as it absorbed, or deflected the projectiles. Jay finally figured out how to use his suit’s shielding, as he kept his Aunt close. “Help me! Help!” came Captain Jack’s voice from inside the house. “Oh no, Captain Jack,” Helen said, as she twisted out of Jay’s grip, and broke ranks. She raced along side of the house to the front door. “Aunt Helen, no!” Jay, and Apollo darted after her, only to be met by a rocket propelled grenade round exploding at their feet. Jay landed almost to the street, while Apollo floated to the ground near him. The blast rocked the car back, sending everyone in all directions. Maya was flying through the air with the blast momentum. She grabbed an assailant, wrenching his head back, and bit down, draining him in a matter of seconds. The new found energy sent her deep into the enemies ranks. The more she fed, the faster she got. A construction pickup came to a screeching halt on the road in front of the house. A man got out and stared in disbelief at the carnage. “Jay! What’s going on?” “Pops get back in the truck! Apollo, cover him, I’m going for Aunt Helen. Jay darted across the lawn, dodging and deflecting incoming rounds. Drof made it to the limo to a waiting open door, with the box. Shelly and Rhe-A slid in, and spied Jay running across the lawn. The house exploded into an inferno. The shock wave sent Jay up, and over the top of his father’s pickup and into the street. Apollo’s shield went up just in time to slam him, and Jay’s father, against the pickup. They both crumpled to the ground leaving behind a dents. The limo was blown into a back flip, but just before it hit the ground, the gravity

stabilizers kicked in, and it soft landed in front of the pickup near the street. “Drof, Shelly, stay here,” Rhe-A ordered, and then leaped out of the car. She ran to Jay during the absence of fighting, that the unexpected explosion had caused. He was rolling over, shaking off burning debris when she arrived. “Jay! Are you injured?” He couldn’t miss the concern in her eyes, while the helmet slid back into his collar. A trickle of blood slipped out of the side of his mouth. “Yah, I’m fine. I bit my lip. Pops!” He jumped up and ran to the pickup, followed by Rhe-A. Apollo knelt beside him with an instrument in his hand. Jay slid on his knees to his father’s side, and cradled him. “He has internal injuries and a skull fracture.” He injected him without question. “That will stabilize him until emergency services arrive.” Jay could now hear the sirens in the background. “Aunt Helen?” He asked, already knowing the answer in Apollo’s face. He looked at his handheld. “The damage is even beyond our technology. I’m sorry.” Jay’s features went white with shock. Bullets rang out again, indicating the enemy had regrouped. Apollo’s shield went up, while Rhe-A and Jay took Jonathan Rogers around to the other side of the pickup. “Jay, we have to leave. We can’t spend weeks trying to explain this to the authorities.” Rhe-A tried to pull him away. “But, my Pops?” “He will be fine. I’ll see to it.” Gunfire could be heard in the distance. Evidentially, Maya was still causing trouble behind the enemies lines. More shots came their way as the limo pulled up beside them. They went to get in, just as a light beam zipped through the truck and struck the car, causing damage. This put them back on the ground. Several more shots damaged the car more.

“What’s that?” “Scanning,” Rhe-A said to Jay, reading her lenses through the handheld. “I can’t get a lock,” Apollo said, moving around the truck. He was met by a blast that took him, and his energy shield down. Rhe-A pulled him back behind the truck. She knew they were pinned down, and if they didn’t move, soon, they would not survive. She was going to create a diversion so the others could get in the car, when a blast came from the sky, and then dozens more as enemy soldiers fell. The shuttle de-cloaked above them and continued its heavy borage, silencing the incoming fire. The limo floated into the open cargo bay through the open cargo door at the rear of the craft. The lights of the police and fire trucks could be seen in the distance, even through the thick haze of smoke. “Jay, please! Come. He will be alright. Apollo, go.” Apollo shook off his concussion , stood up sadly, and floated into the cargo bay. Jay released his father and stood over him. “I’ll see you later, Pops.” Rhe-A put her arms around him and lifted him, and herself, into the ship. The cloak reengaged as the door stood open. Jay could hear John mentally calling for Maya to return to the ship. Without warning, she stood on the ships platform. She was in a blood rage. Her suit, and face, were covered in blood. She zeroed in on John, and attacked. She was so fast; Jay barely saw her go by. John had little time to react before she collided with him. Her momentum took them off the floor, and on top of the car. John was on his back, holding her shoulders. She snarled and snapped her fangs at his face. “Maya, stop!” John yelled at her verbally and mentally. She did not relent. Jay heard the low chanting of Athene-A, coaxing the others to in. Apollo held out his hand and chanted, so he could focus his energy. Drof did the same, Rhe-A let go of Jay and followed. Maya stopped for a second, thinking something wrong. She was lifted off of John, and Floated to the center of the bay as the hatch closed. She snarled and fought against the invisible force. The chanting got louder, and they formed their own floating circle a few inches off the deck. John ed in to complete the circuit. Maya lifted her head to the ceiling and let out a banshee scream that Jay would never forget. Shelly put her hands to her ears. It abruptly stopped. The group lowered her lifeless body into

their arms, and then themselves to the deck. They moved the circle inward until John took her full weight and carried her across the bay to a chair. The chanting died down as he stretched out the chair flat, and laid her down. Jay took a seat and put his head down on his arms folded over his knees. Shelly curled up in a chair and whimpered. The rest began nursing their wounds, or putting away equipment. Athene-A moved over to where Jay sat, and gracefully sat beside him. “JJ,” she softly said, “I’m sorry about Helen. It was our fault; we were too slow getting to you. We’re sorry.” “It wasn’t your fault, it was mine. I led them there. I showed them the skulls from the garage. Such a stupid mistake, that Aunt Helen had to pay for.” “It’s still not your fault. We are suppose to be smarter than you, right? We failed.” “Is Pops okay?” “Reports say, he has been taken to the hospital. We have sent drones to keep an eye on him. He will be fine.” Jay looked relieved, as he sat up, and then slowly leaned back in the chair. “Just relax, I need to check on the others.” She put a loving hand on his knee, and got up and left. Rhe-A eased her way over to Jay and elegantly sat down. Jay had his head back and his eyes closed. She studied his smoke streaked face with light speckles of blood. “Jay,” she lightly said. He opened his eyes and tilted his head toward her. “I’m sorry about what happened to Helen. She was kind and gracious. I liked her very much. She did not deserve that fate.” A tear rolled out of the side of Jay’s eye. The pain on Rhe-A’s face was mirrored by the pain in his eyes. She put her hand on his. “You’ve done what was asked of you. All of you were our responsibility. I failed, again.” He saw her real pain. “There’s enough blame to go around, and I blame the Destroyers. I swear I will do what it takes to make them pay for this.” His

resolve and determination returned. Rhe-A half smiled a smoky, blood smudged smile. “It may not be of much help now, but you will see her again.” Jay took her hand. “Thank you for being there.” Shelly got a hold of herself, and was watching the intimate transaction. She got up and ran to Jay, falling into the chair with him. “Oh, Jay, are you okay? That was horrible. I’ve never been so scared, even when the Professor had me.” Rhe-A let go, and stood up. Jay struggled to get up. She walked in the direction of Maya and John. Jay tried to get up, but Shelly pressed him down. “Are you hurt?” she asked, and then began touching him all over. Rhe-A walked up to John and Athene-A; they were hovering over Maya like worried parents. Through her lenses, she examined her. “She has been severely over stimulated. Going so long without human blood, and then over indulging, has sent her into shock.” Maya twitched as if having a bad dream. “It may take a few hours, but she will recover. Rhe-A took out a thermal blanket and put it over her. She then injected her with a sedative. Her normal eyes flicked open. They focused on John. He held her cold hand. “Welcome back, you have a little something on your face.” She smiled, relaxed, and went back to sleep. John looked relieved as the commotion Shelly was making caught his attention. “I need some good news; did we at least get what we came after?” “Yes, it is in the vehicle.” “Let’s get everyone checked out and cleaned up. We have a meeting in Washington in a couple of hours.” He looked over at Jay. “Now, I must affect another rescue,” he finished and walked away. “Jay,” he said, stopping Shelly’s rant, “I need to speak with you, privately.” “Okay,” he said, wrestling himself away from her. They strolled to the other end of the shuttle bay. “I’m heartbroken over what happened to your Aunt.”

“Yah, your sister was always kind to me,” Jay said it a little angrier than he intended. That statement brought it all closer to home for John. He felt even more sad that he couldn’t her. Maybe that was the reason the TSD stripped them of their memories, too spare them the pain of watching loved ones die. “Your father is in ICU. We are monitoring him.” “Your Son needs us. When do we go get him?” “We don’t,” John said, more forcefully than he intended. “He’s safer where he is right now. From what the enemy can surmise, we have the skulls, and he had nothing to do with anything. We need to keep it that way. If we go poking around him, now, he will become a target. No, he stays. We will assist in his healing, but that’s it, for now.” Jay knew he was right, but he was still angry, still wanted to blame someone. “Fine.” He turned away, reached into the car, opened the box, and took out the journal. “You wrote it, maybe you can decipher it, here.” Jay tossed it to him.

Chapter Twenty-Two: Treasure Map Jay stepped out of the clean room, dressed and refreshed. He looked about to see everyone else cleaned up and ready to go again. They sat around a round table in front of the car, while bots completed its repair. Holographic computer graphics were lit up. Aidan met him at his chair. They slapped their hands together in their customary welcoming ritual. “I’m sorry, my friend. I was late.” “It wasn’t your fault, either, but your precision shooting probably saved us all. Thank you.” He snorted, and went to his chair. John sat with the book open in front of him. Maya sat timidly to his side, while Athene-A sat to his other side. John started, “Hope everyone is refreshed. We still have important matters to discuss. The incident at Helen’s house was unfortunate, but we have information that could help us in recovering the key. Like many times in the past, sacrifices have been made to ensure the survival of all. Her sacrifice will only be forgotten if we fail. Maya has some information to share.” Jay had never seen her this shaken, unconfident. She cleared her throat. “Before the blood rage took over, I had the good fortune of capturing one of our assassins, alive. He told me he was part of Hagha’Kyum Priests.” John continued, “We’ve had experiences with them for thousands of years.” “Or, ever sense Aztek-Alon formed a legion to take care of the tracker skulls,” Maya finished. John sat down. “They were quite fanatical before. Now, they appear to be under the influence of the Destroyers...an even more lethal combination. We must be more vigilant. In the past, they’ve gone around and collected all the crystal skulls they could find, mostly because they can’t tell the difference between the fakes and the real ones. There seems to be a lot more of the skulls than we suspected. Well, I can honestly say the book is still a mystery.”

“I think Gramps was right.” Everyone turned to Jay. “I believe he found one of the tracker skulls, deep down, he knew he needed to hid it to keep his family safe, but also, knew it was important, and needed to be found by the right people. He was smart not to hid it in the first place we looked. He knew we would be followed, so he hid it so only people who knew him could find it. It won’t be easy. It’s here.” Jay pointed to the book, “and here.” He pointed to his head. “A combination of the book and the history/mind sifter should be considered a treasure map. Except this one hides the useful information, overlaid by large amounts of information.” John closed the book and sent it to hovering over to Jay. “I think this belongs to you. I believe you should set us on our next course.” He slowly took the floating book and opened it. Beep...beep...beep... “It looks like we have a meeting with Colonel Masters. Miss Masters, would you come with us?”

The invisible car hovered over the park bench, where the Colonel sat. She was alone, but looked nervous as she checked the time on her phone. “You were correct,” Aidan said, manipulating the screen. “She was followed. I’m not certain whether it’s a government agency, or the Hagha’Kyum. But they are here, here, and here.” He pointed at the topography. “No discernible advanced technology.” “Thank you,” John said. “Rhe-A, did you get that?” “Affirmative, on our way,” she said over the comm.

The Colonel jumped a little when she felt the pressure on her shoulder, and the whisper in her ear. “Mom don’t talk. Go to the jogging tunnel to your right. We’re being watched.”

“Shell?” she softly said, smiled, and got up. Once in the tunnel, a jogger startled her as she ed her. The Colonel’s hand mysteriously rose, she felt something clip on her wrist. A dizzy sensation came over her as the area around her change to a shadier aura. There she saw her daughter and Rhe-A standing next to her. “Shell!” She hugged her tightly. “Oh my God, are you alright?” She let go of her, looking her over, and then hugged her again. “I thought I lost you. How do you feel?” Shelly hugged her back. “I’m fine Mama. I’m sorry I scared you.” “I’m just glad you’re okay, and here I thought archeology would be a quiet, and safe occupation.” They both laughed, and let go. “Rhe-A, thank you.” Abigail took her hand and lightly shook it. Shelly gave Rhe-A an evil look, which, she ignored. “Quite unnecessary. I was only doing my job.” “Thank you, anyway.” She let go. “Why the cloak and dagger?” “You’re being followed.” “I was very careful.” Suddenly, a woman looked down the tunnel, creped further in, as if looking for someone. She pulled out a device and pointed it at them. “You are being tracked.” “I cleaned myself before I left. I know her. She works in our office.” “Who gave you your insignia?” Rhe-A asked. She unconsciously put her hand on one. “My boss said he had a replacement for me. That son-of-a-bitch. Can she see us?” “No, she can neither see, nor hear us. May I have your insignia?” Abigail unclasped the silver eagle, and then handed it to her. Rhe-A waved the handheld over it, causing the woman to stop just before she got to them. The tail slapped at her device, and then said, “We lost the signal.”

“Copy. Return to the rendezvous,” came a different voice. The woman took one last confusing look around, and then went back the way she had come. “Shall we go some place more private.” Rhe-A walked out of the tunnel. Abigail followed, and could now see the car. Rhe-A opened the car door with a wave of her hand. Shelly and her mother sat in the back, while Rhe-A took a seat up front. “Hello, Abigail,” Jay said, from the driver’s seat. “Jay!” She put her hand on his arm that was stretched across the back of his seat. His smiling face looked back at her. “I want to thank you for what you did.” “No thanks necessary. I was just a bystander.” “That’s not true, Mother, Jay saved me, twice. He’s a real hero,” Shelly said, deliberately leaving Rhe-A out. “I’m just glad it worked out. Are you ready for the experience of a lifetime? Are you ready to be amazed?” “Amaze me,” she said, holding her daughter’s hand. He straightened up, and moved some symbols around. The car silently lifted into the air. It rose high above the trees. Abigail stared out of the windshield; at the ship they were docking with. The car stopped inside the ship, and its bay door closed. “Colonel Masters,” John pleasantly said, “Welcome aboard Andromeda.” She slowly took his hand as he gently pulled her out of the car. She tried to look at all the technology in the bay at the same time. “Would you like to sit down?” “No,” she said, and began wondering around. Some of the monitors showed different news broadcasts from all over the world. “Is there anything specific you would like to see?” Aidan asked from behind her.

She didn’t look back when she answered. “Can you determine if the Chinese have ICBM’s in their Southern Islands.” “Let’s find out.” His large furry arm reached around her and did some manipulation on a console. Her eyes grew as she followed the massive furry arm to its source. She looked up to see the bull man busy at work. She gasped, backed into the console, and slid sideways. “There are no missiles. There are artificial buildings and simulations. They are, how do you say, bluffing.” “Uh, um, thank you,” she said, while scooting closer to Shelly. “That...that’s a Minotaur,” she mumbled, unable to take her eyes away. Aidan snorted a laugh. Shelly took her Mother’s hand. “It’s okay, he’s one of the good guys.” He moved closer to her and held out a massive hand. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, Colonel Masters. Your daughter speaks very highly of you.” “Ah, sorry to stare.” She timidly took his hand. “That’s alright. I always get this reaction from human Cousins.” She let go. “Cousins?” “Apparently,” Shelly began, “Atlanteans shared their DNA with us thousands of years ago, and consider us part of their family. Sort of, distant cousins.” “Oh, like that makes any more sense than the rest of this. I think I should sit down, now.” Her complexion was much more pale than before. John led her to a chair. “Colonel, time is short. We don’t want you away very long. It might draw too much unwanted attention. There’s going to be a climax to this war, I fear it is coming soon. If the Destroyers don’t kill us outright, worse, we will all be enslaved. The Destroyers are using humans, by persuasion, or possession, to fight for them. We do not have the man power for that kind of confrontation. We believe we are going to need human Cousin help.” “So, you want us to your side in this war?”

“You have been for centuries. We are just putting a name and a face to friend and foe, alike. Please, we have not trusted anyone, in any government with this much information. Mostly, because people can’t handle it. They go into complete catatonic denial, or insane. We feel the time has come, humans are more accepting now of the possibility of aliens and advanced technology. We want you to take our proposal to your highest level of government.” “Is that all? Just come with me to the White House with your ship and technology, and I’m sure they’ll see it your way.” “Alas, the sudden appearance of a space ship and aliens would rock the very foundation of your society. Unfortunately, we’ll have to do this as slowly as possible. I would like for you to start with your most trusted people, and go from there.” “But, how will I know who to trust?” Rhe-A brought over a computer, and set it in front of her. “A laptop?” “Laptop,” John said, “They come up with the best names for things. This, ‘laptop,’ will allow you to access our data, and communicate with us. The computer will only interact with you. Start at the beginning. It will answer all you questions.” “What about security?” “You have nothing that will penetrate its defenses,” Rhe-A explained. “But you must be careful of a Destroyer. They might have something that could.” “How will I know the difference?” “The computer will help you with all your questions,” Rhe-A answered. “Now, this new insignia will help you remotely interact with the laptop and communicate independently.” She pinned the eagle back on her collar. “You want me to be a spy?” “That would imply learning something we don’t already know. Observe.” Rhe-A

swished a hand around, and a 3-D image of her office came into view. Her boss was scrambling around trying to locate her, using all his resources. “Would you like to know what the President is doing, right now?” “No...no, that’s alright. Will Shell be coming back with me?” John got her attention. “The Destroyers, and Hagha’Kyum Priests know who she is. I think she would be safer with us.” She looked worried. “It’s okay, Mama. I’ll be safe here with Jay.” “Now, we must get you back,” Jay said. “Hop in.” The black SUV stopped in front of her office building. She got out with her new laptop, said goodbye to her daughter and Jay, while doing a double take at a different car than the one she had gotten into.

“Any progress?” John asked Jay. He flicked over another page. “No, not really, most of this is like a diary. What happened on trips around the world. Complaints about costs, rude, or nice people, architecture, or the weather.” Jay turned another page. Bottom right corner had a hand drawn picture, circular in nature, with a picture of a dragon spewing fire. He perked up. “Do you know what this symbol means?” John studied it. “I have seen it before.” He looked up. “Maya, would you come here for a moment?” She was there in a flash. Jay jumped out of habit. “Do you recognize this drawing?” “It is very crude. You don’t recognize it from when you brought me back to Chrysalis.” “I’ve died a few times since then,” John sarcastically said. “Thestor and Despin-A Hermes, made medallions for my children.” “I ,” Jay said. “When you and Anataka were migrating to Chichen Itza, and you ran across Maya and her band of-”

“Band of...what?” She glared at him. “-children. Uh, I think we need to go to Chichen Itza, and find this medallion.” “And then what?” John asked. “I don’t know, maybe when we find it, it will lead us to the skull.” “Alright, so far it’s all we have to go on,” John surmised. Rhe-A walked up to a lone console. Apollo followed. Shelly was on a computer and was oblivious to their conversation. Aidan saw the gathering and ed. “Is Xen-Acrates still out of the TSD?” “Last reports put him here,” Apollo pointed at the phantom map. “Central America. He was trying to quell a Lycan outbreak.” “If anyone can sniff out a vampire medallion, he can,” John said. “No pun intended, right?” Jay added. “A pun?” “You know werewolf-sniff out?” “I don’t understand.” “Wow, you people need a sense of humor, never mind.” “Can we Xen?” John asked, putting his hands on the battle table. “Comm signal is inoperative, but his tracking device is still active,” Apollo informed. “Good, Aidan, set a course for Xen.” “Understood.” He stopped and snorted a laugh. “Wolf-sniff out-I get it,” the bull man remarked, shaking his head as he made his way to the flight deck. Jay shook his head, and then went back to the book.

The shuttle eased its way down in a clearing. The Central American weather was, as it always was, warm and humid. The side door opened and deposited John, Athene-A, Apollo, Rhe-A, and Jay. Shelly stood in the doorway, pouting. She had to be excessively convinced to stay behind. For her own safety. Which she doubted since Maya was inside the ship with her. They marched into the darkness. Jay felt better after his rest, and after he designed his own weapon. He wore the modified pistol on his hip, as if he were in the old American West. “He shouldn’t be far. Besides, he has probably smelled us coming, already.” Apollo said, watching the ping on his handheld. He gave Jay a sideways look. He caught on, smiled, and followed. It was only a short time before Jay was starting to work up a sweat, when John said, “Strange, my readings are staying the exact same distance, no matter how close we get.” He stopped in a small clearing, adjusting his handheld that was wrapped around his forearm. “I’ve lost the signal.” Suddenly, the alarms quietly went off, as multiple reading were approaching their location. The dots encircled them, ten in all stopped, and then began slowly advancing. “Did anyone check to see what day it was?” Jay asked, as the clouds separated to reveal a very large moon. Glowing eyes lit up at the jungles edge. They brazenly stepped out into the open. Jay’s heart raced faster, mostly because of the sheer size of them. He slowly took out his pistol, and then thumbed through the settings until he reached his desired selection. “Alright everyone,” John started, “Let’s not provoke them. We don’t want to hurt them.” “So, we’re just going to give them a doggie treat and tell them to play dead.”

John gave Jay a wry look. “We should be fine as long as they don’t all charge at once.” No sooner said, when they all charged the group. The largest one, appeared to be the leader, went for John. The group made a quick back-to-back circle. The snarling roared louder as the beasts closed the gap. “Try not to kill them,” John urged. “Tell that to them,” Jay replied, as he took aim and fired at the nearest one to him. The werewolf howled and tumbled when the projectile pierced its shoulder. Rhe-A, Apollo, Athene-A, and John held up a hand, and began to chant. The wolves were stopped in their tracks. But they refused to give up. They dug in and clawed at the ground. Jay was horrified to watch them make progress against the invisible force. Inch by inch, they howled and pulled themselves forward. The mental barrier was not working. Jay moved up next to John and raised his weapon. “No, Jay,” he struggled to say. The sudden lack of concentration allowed the large leader to advance uncomfortably close. Jay lowered his weapon slightly. “I want you to know, I will not allow it to harm you. You better think of something fast, or I will kill it.” There was a bead of sweat forming on John’s forehead. He was about to order everyone to levitate out of harm’s way, but wasn’t sure if he could get to Jay in time. His options were dwindling, in order to save everyone. This was supposed to be a simple search and ask questions mission. They were not equipped for this kind of fight. Jay waited for the expulsion of mental energy that would blast these creatures. I didn’t come. The large wolf was only feet away from John. Jay raised the weapon and took aim. From out of the blackness, a large figure tackled the big wolf. Then, one by one, the others were wrested to the ground by other dark figures. John, and the others, let go, some of them putting their hands on their knees. The newcomer wolves were in complete control, except for the larger. The even bigger one had it pinned down, but it refused to submit, and squirmed out of the bigger ones grasp. The battle ensued, while the others howled in of one or the other. The slightly smaller one was tenacious, and fast. They spared, but

was no match for the bigger one. He reached out and grabbed the smaller one, and with a gaping mouth of saber teeth, bit down on its neck. The sickening crunch, and the spewing of blood, made Jay gag. The victor dropped the carcass to the ground, while its followers howled a sad song. He dropped down on all fours and menacingly approached John, who, held his ground. “Xen, you’re looking strong,” John casually spoke. The creature stood, twisting and bending its shape. Bones cracked, as skin stretched and retracted. A very tall man stood in front of John, with only blood as covering. “John, why are you here?” Xen angrily asked. “We apologies for interfering with your work.” John looked around Xen at the dead animal on the ground. “But, did you have to kill him?” “He was...un-trainable. He would’ve never conformed to the modern era. There was no choice. Besides, no need to apologies. I’ve been tracking this rogue pack for weeks. your group made the perfect bait.” “Uh, well, glad we could help.” Bones cracking, and skin stretching, could be heard all around. The vanquished wolf transformed back into a men and women. “He was trying to start an unauthorized pack. He was spreading the Lycanthrope virus to boost his ranks. Probably to take over the world like all the rest. If you kill the leader, the followers are free to think on their own.” “What will happen to them?” “They’ll have to be trained, or retrained, on the rules of civilized conduct. You haven’t been reading my reports.” “I’ve only been out of the TSD for couple of months.” “What kind of help to need?” Xen testily asked. “Do you recognize this?” John pulled up a holographic image of the vampire medallion. “Oh, yes, the Draken Sigil. Why?”

“We need one to solve a puzzle that could possibly lead us to one of the tracker skulls.” “How?” “It’s a really long story. Will you help us?” “Does it have anything to do with the Cousin over there?” “It has everything to do with him.” He lifted an eyebrow. “I need to read these reports.” They heard a painful howl echo in the darkness, as Rhe-A removed the silver slug from the wolf’s shoulder. She injected him, and watched the wound heal. “Yes, I know where one is.” “Good, tell me, and I’ll leave you to your business.” “No need because I’m going along. I believe you have a ship nearby.” “Uh, alright.” John looked away. “Aidan, come pick us up.” Xen stepped away and motioned to a large werewolf. He galloped over. “I don’t know how long I’ll be away, my Son. You are pack leader until I return. Take the new ones home and start their training.” He looked at the dead pack leader. “Take him home to his family for burial.” The wolf stood on hind legs and nuzzled Xen. He howled, sending the pack into a frenzy. One grabbed the dead man, and they quickly scampered into the jungle. The shuttle materialized above them, and quietly sank to the ground. “Xen, Maya is helping us with this mission,” John informed him. A low growl came from deep in his chest. “Now’s your chance to back out.” He calmed himself. “For the sake of this world, I will control myself, but do I have to be-nice?” John smiled. “Thank you.” He motioned with his hand toward the shuttle opening.

The well-lit bay had everyone aboard. John stepped in to make sure he was between Maya and Xen. Maya had been warned about Xen’s arrival, and remained calm. They stood across the bay from each other, and silently stared. “Oooh, who’s this?” Shelly said, approaching, and looking the giant blood soaked, naked man, up and down. Breaking the awkwardness of the situation with another awkward situation. “Shelly Masters,” John said, grateful for her interruption for a change, “this is Xen-Acrates. One of my oldest and most trusted friends.” She moved forward, holding up her hand. He took it gently and leaned down and sniffed. She pulled back with a giddy smile. “And this is Jay Rodgers.” Jay moved up and held out his hand. “How did you know to use silver?” “Most legends, and myths, are based in fact. Besides, I watch a lot of TV.” Xen smiled for the first time. His old friends crowded around, welcoming him, and trying to speak at once. Maya stayed aloof at her computer terminal, and pretended to be busy. The crowd soon quieted down. “I have information that might help,” Xen said. “Let me get cleaned up and dressed, and we’ll discuss it.” He made his way around the car and ed Shelly, who, couldn’t help but take a last glance. “Maya,” he stopped and said, “you look...small.” She made eye . “Xen, you look...dirty.” He smiled, and then went to the clean room.

They were all sitting at the round table when Xen stepped in. Shelly’s eyes popped when she saw him the size of an average Cousin. His E-suit was the shape of cargo pants, and what she thought was a lumberjack’s shirt. She shifted

chairs, and patted the one she vacated. He sat down between Shelly and AtheneA, and gave both a friendly smile. “Xen, Rhe-A will catch you up on current events,” John said. “That’s quite alright. I’ve read the reports.” Jay looked surprised. “Leave it to you, John, to make finding the tracker skull difficult, therefore, making it impossible for the Destroyers to find. May I see the book?” Jay slid it over to him. He flicked through the pages quickly. “This seems as cryptic as most everything Atlantean. I recognize some commonalities. I believe I know our next destination. Aidan, set a course for Chichen Itza, please.” Aidan scrolled through the holograph controls. “We’ll arrive in ten minutes.” “Why Chichen Itza?” John asked. “I have an acquaintance there that can help. He’s an expert on all vampire artifacts, and may know where we can get a medallion.” “Good,” Jay said. “Finally, a solid lead.” “So, how long have you been a Werewolf?” Shelly bluntly asked, while batting her eyes at him. The table got quiet. “Please excuse her. She is very new to this situation,” Maya said, trying to ease the tension, but only making it worse. “Why don’t you ask the one who caused it?” Xen said, staring Maya down. “Xen,” John said calmly, “Maya has changed. We need to get ed this, and work together for all our sakes.” “Understood.” “We’ve arrived,” Aidan said. “Thank the Great Creator,” John said under his breath. “Alright, let’s go meet this expert.”

The darkness hid the group as they exited the shuttle from the Chichen Itza ancient compound. Two square miles had been excavated, with even more residential area further out. They quietly walked along a dense network of paved causeways that extended in all directions. The area was closed from the public at night, so no tourist to impede their progress. Jay had never been here, except in his memory link, when the area was nothing but jungle. He recognized the architectural styles, like Puuc and Chenes. The buildings were grouped in a series of architectonic sets, separated by long missing walls. In the distance, Jay marveled at the Osario pyramid, and the Temple of Xtoloc in the center of the building groupings. Xen led them north by the monument of El Castillo, and the Great Ball Court, until they came to the Temple of Warriors. Jay and Shelly gave each other a doubtful look, and started climbing the steep staircase of the pyramid, well behind the others. He took her arm to help as they huffed and puffed. She didn’t pull away, but held on tighter. “I...don’t...suppose we could’ve parked a little closer,” Jay said, between breaths. “Just a little further, Cousin,” Xen said from the front. About two-thirds of the way up, Xen stopped, examined an oddly shaped stone step. He reached out, took a large square bottom corner stone and pulled it out, turned it to the right and put it back in its slot. A portion of the steps folded down to reveal a ageway about the same time Shelly and Jay caught up. “Whoa, I would’ve never guessed that one,” Jay said, taking in more air. After they had all entered, the stairs slowly sprang back into place. The complete blackness caused Jay and Shelly’s helmets to ooze over the back of their heads and come down to only cover their eyes. The lenses formed to give them perfect night vision. Shelly held Jay’s hand tight during the process. “I still can’t get used to that,” she said, drawing Rhe-A’s attention to their closeness. “Follow me closely, and do what I say, or else it might be painful,” Xen echoed from the lead.

They stayed close, single file, as they started down the corridor. They came to a downward stone staircase and stopped. “For those of you who can’t levitate, I suggest you get a partner to help you down to the landing.” Xen explained. “If you step on a number combination of steps, you will drop into a hundred wooden spikes. Not good for vampires either.” He glanced at Maya. John took hold of Aidan and glided down with ease. Rhe-A reached for Jay, but was intercepted by Shelly. Rhe-A gave her a wry look, grabbed her tight, and floated down. Shelly let go and pulled away quickly once they reached the landing. She struggle to recover her breath from being squeezed. Apollo held out a hand to Maya, who could’ve done it herself, but took his hand anyway. Jay stared down the tunnel. “Don’t be afraid,” Athene-A calmly said. “I’m not afraid. I always feel safe with you, Grandma.” She smiled. “Shall we dance on air?” She took his hand and put her other on his shoulder. He put his other on her waist. He felt weightless as they lifted up and out over the others. She floated slowly down like a leaf falling from a tree, and then set them into a slow spin. Jay felt like a kid again, letting out a laugh as she snickered in delight. She set them down lightly on the large landing. He stepped back and gave her a deep gentleman’s bow. She countered with the most difficult curtsey. “May we continue, now?” Xen remarked. “Lead on, my good Man-wolf,” Jay said, in a very bad British accent. Xen shrugged it off, looked at John, who just lifted his shoulders. He then continued to lead them down a sloped age. A few minutes, and he stopped them again, and said, “If you have to walk, walk on the red blocks, only.” Jay was last. He looked down at the checkerboard floor. He wasn’t sure if the color was paint, or blood. Taking in a deep breath, he stepped on red all the way

across. A little further down, and the age led to a small room. Xen stood next to a wall with a small square hole in it. “I know you’re there. Open up!” They waited in silence. “Open up. You know I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t important. Hey! Open up. It’s world saving important.” Silence. Xen held up his hand. “Don’t worry, he’s just being rude.” A loud metallic latch clanked. A huge section of wall slowly opened with a chalkboard scraping grind. Xen strolled in as if he owned the place. The others followed close behind. For some, the helmets retreated as the light grew brighter. “I thought I told you never to show your dogface here again,” a deep voice said in American English, with a slight Spanish accent. “Have I told you, your hospitality...sucks.” Jay snorted at the comment. “And I told you not to bring guests, unless they were here for lunch,” the voice said, stepping out of the shadows to reveal a vampiric appearance. Jay stopped smiling. Maya stepped out from behind the group. “Draco?” “Queen Mother,” he said, kneeling and bowing. She approached him, and put her hand on his dark-haired head. “Rise, my elusive Son.” He did so. “Have you not forgiven me?” “It was difficult the first few centuries, but now...I understand why you did what you did, I have forgiven you.” “Thank you, my Son.” She reached out and hugged his neck. Jay slid up close to John. “Why the tension?” “You might know him by another name, Vlad Dracul.” Jay’s eyes widened, as Shelly took in a deep breath. “His family was murdered, he lost all of his rationality ,and decided to take control of the world so he could stop the

destruction and violence. He fell prey to the very thing he was fighting against. It took some time, but Maya put an end to his Tyranny.” “Ohhh,” Shelly and Jay quietly said at the same time, like kids hearing a bedtime story. Xen reached into a pant pocket, and said, “I didn’t come here empty handed.” He tossed a flask at him, which he caught easily. “This isn’t wolf’s blood, is it?” “No, it’s the real thing.” “Good, it takes decades to get that taste out of my mouth.” Jay snickered again, drawing attention. “How do you know each other?” Maya asked. “We have an understanding,” Draco said. “If I find rogue werewolves, I inform him, instead of killing them, he in return, does the same of vampires.” “An agreement, amazing,” Maya looked back and forth. “Come, sit, make yourselves comfortable,” Draco instructed, as he led them to a large rectangular wooden table straight out of the middle ages. They mingled and sat down. The extravagant cathedral-like chandelier held dozens of lit candles. Candelabras sat on shelves all though the large room of tapestries depicting medieval battles, coats of arms, and paintings. Red thin rugs covered the floor. Decoration, and artifacts, filled the room. Jay swiveled his head thinking he could spend half a career in this room, alone. “I must it, I wasn’t expecting guests. I have little to offer in way of refreshments.” “That’s quite alright, Draco. We hope to not take up too much of your time,” John said, while sitting near the head of the table. “I have nothing but time.” He slowly strolled around the table, as if stalking prey. “John, it is good to see you again.” John wasn’t sure how he meant that. “Athene-A, lovely as ever. Apollo, it has been a long time.” He ed Jay up, like he was a left over in the refrigerator. Draco leaned between Jay and Shelly. She looked into his eyes, his voice soothing and comforting. “What have we

here,” he softly cooed. She stared intently. “Your hair is like a long-awaited sunrise.” He reached out and took a strand. “Skin soft as silk and the fragrance of...lilac.” Shelly was almost lost in his mesmerizing stare. Jay squirmed, wondering how long they were going to let this go on. “Come, come with me to my chambers, my angle of light.” She started to move, suddenly, she blinked a few times and was back in reality. “You’re very cute, and all, but I prefer dinner and a movie before I drop my pants.” He stood up straight, as if shocked, while the others snickered and giggled. “How is this possible? No Cousin has ever been able to resist.” “We believe,” Rhe-A started, “that Cousins are adapting. Perhaps more Atlantean genes are dominating.” “Ah, Rhe-A, the ever technically correct one,” he said, as he moved around the table to his seat at the head. “Now, I must hear what is so important that would bring most of the Council of Chrysalis to my doorstep.” “Draco,” Maya blurted, “do you still have the medallion Thestor, and Despin-A made for you?” Draco looked confused. “What use could that old relic have?” “We’re not sure, but we think it could lead us to a tracker skull,” John revealed. Draco got up, and walked to a wall with a fake fireplace. He leaned on the outcropping stones. He took the flask out and took a savoring drink. “Do you know who I really am? I’m impressed with myself. You didn’t know I was here.” “There was no indication of immoral action from you since you disappeared. There was no reason to track you,” Rhe-A dictated. “Ha, ha, ha. I am a businessman now. I use a lot of pseudo names, but I have a stake, no pun intended, in almost every major company in the world. I could be considered the most wealthiest man on the planet.”

Jay stood up angrily. “Do you have one these damn medallions, or not?” If Draco was angry, he didn’t show it. “A businessman, what’s in it for me?” “Have you not learned anything over the millennia,” Maya said, rising. “Oh, but I have learned a great deal.” Jay moved away from the table. “Looks to me like you’ve learned to live in a hole. No family, no friends, no loyalty, and alone, body and soul.” Draco started to look angry. his pupils dilated a ruby red. “You have all the wealth, and all the gifts, and this is what you do. You’re pathetic.” That set Draco off. He moved with lightning speed, and had his hand around Jay’s throat. The others jumped up, knowing it was too late to do anything. “What do you know of me, human?” “I...know...enough,” Jay struggled to say. Draco looked down to see the SP-10 pressed against his chest. “You can’t kill me.” “No...but these ash wood tipped bullets are going to sting like hell.” Draco looked deep into his eyes and saw he meant it. His eyes faded back to normal. He loosened his grip, tilted his head back and laughed. He let go and stepped back. “Well done, human. I haven’t had this much excitement in a very long time.” Jay still had the gun leveled on him, while he rubbed his throat. “You may have all the time in the world, but we don’t.” The group rallied around Jay. Maya gently put her hand on his gun and slowly pushed it down, with mercy on her face. He put the weapon away. “I saw something in your eyes, a tenacity, something I saw two decades ago. At that time, I was a mere relics dealer in Mexico City. A man, who looked much like John, came to me with a picture of a medallion. He didn’t know what he had, but he knew it was valuable. It was odd, he didn’t want to sell it, he wanted to hide it. He surmised it was dangerous because he had lost his wife finding it.” Athene-A and John looked at each other. Jay glanced their way. “He paid me a

large sum of money; I gave him some coordinates. He wanted to dispose of it to keep his family, and anyone else important to him, safe.” “What was his name?” Jay asked. “In that business, you never exchange real names.” “So, you went and got the relic, later.” “The coordinates I gave him is high in iron ore, and other minerals that thwart all kinds of detection. Did you know there is only twenty-one of these medallions? Only seven of us remain, Mother.” Maya obviously looked hurt. “Xen has collected a few, at my request. Over time, some of us, simply go mad. I showed them kindness by ending their tortured lives. Human hunters aren’t so merciful.” He gave Jay and Shelly a hateful look. Shelly spoke up. “Why didn’t you try to get the medallion?” “I thought keeping them hidden would protect them against the Destroyers, who, have showed interest over the last few hundred years. Besides, I can find them anytime I want.” He reached into his evening coat pocket, and produced a palm sized medallion. “You have one,” she responded, and everyone moved in closer. “The agoam crystal content, combined with Atlantean metallurgy, can produce a power source. They feed off of one another, and were a great gift during the stone age.” “What do you mean?” Shelly asked. “He means,” John answered, “that one medallion can detect another.” “True, but they have a limited range. The more you have, the greater the range.” Jay stepped even closer. “Can these things detect tracker skulls?” “The tracker skulls were saturated with radiation by the original key. I would say, yes.”

“That’s what he did,” Jay said, and then paced the blood red carpet. “Gramps had both a medallion, and a skull. He must’ve figured out that the medallion would point to it, so, he hid both, leaving us bread crumbs, that only we could follow. Genius!” Beep...beep...beep... All instruments went off at the same time. Draco went to an old metal desk and pressed a button under the main drawer. A less sophisticated hologram popped up. The others were looking at theirs. “I have multiple threats converging on our location,” Draco said. “There is Destroyer influence detected,” Apollo added. “It’s the Hagha’Kyum, again, fifty-three of them,” Rhe-A told the group. “With Destroyer tech, too many,” John said above the noise. “Since they are on their way here from the main entrance, we can go out on the landing, and catch them in a crossfire. But the chances of casualties are high.” “You fools, how could you let them follow you here?” Draco calmed himself and sighed. “I really did like this place. Very well, shall we go?” He moved close to the faux fireplace. “An exit strategy.” He pulled a rock sideways and turned it. The whole fireplace cracked open and swung wide. Noises of dying men could be heard outside the main chamber as the enemy found the traps. They ran down a long hallway wide enough for two. It led straight through the complex. Motion detecting lights lit up as they ran. Draco deactivated traps as he went. They came to a three-way intersection. “Aidan, do you copy?” John said. Static. “Barely...being jammed.” “We’re being jammed, also,” Rhe-A said, trying to make her handheld work. “Which way?” John asked. “This way.” Draco pointed straight ahead.

They advanced quickly down the tunnel. Up some steps, down and another corridor.” “Aidan, north side of the temple. Cover us.” “Understo...” “Alright, same box formation. Draco, Cousins, in the center, Atlanteans on the perimeter. They may have countermeasures for our tech, so use your mental shields. Aidan, are you in position?” “Affirmative, cloak...down...lots of attention.” “Understood, here we come.” John gave Draco a nod and he pulled a lever.

Chapter Twenty-Three: Blood The temple stairs dropped down on their position. The group ran out in their formation and was immediately met with a borage of bullets. The mental shielding deflected the projectiles. The shuttle was returning fire, lighting up the whole sky. Small drones dispersed and tracked their targets. More black clad assailants began pouring in. The bay door was open as the shuttle hovered close to the ground. Rocket propelled grenades splashed all around them. Some hit the shuttle, but did little damage. They were getting close when a lightning bolt came from the top of the temple. The mental shielding only lasted seconds. RheA was blasted to the ground, unconscious, and her E-suit smoldering. The rest ran on board. Jay and Apollo, jumped back out of the shuttle and ran for Rhe-A. Jay saw the enemy closing in. He fired his pistol, taking down several of the closest ones. Whether he killed any of them, or not, he didn’t care. It was payback time for his Aunt. He fired with accuracy until he reached Rhe-A. He pulled her up on his shoulders in a fireman’s carry, as Apollo fired back. Jay ran shooting, as Apollo fired his stun weapon and mentally threw people in all directions. The drones were becoming overwhelmed. Jay made it onboard, just as Apollo was blasted with the lightning weapon. His defenses were burned through in a fraction of a second. He, and some body parts landed in the shuttle. The blast knocked everyone off their feet. The bay door was closing, while they were being hit by another, much weaker, blast of lightning. The drones retreated with the shuttle. Aidan lost temporary control of the shuttle, and cut off the tops of dozens of trees. RPG’s streaked by as tracer rounds subsided. Soon, he was out of jamming range and the shuttle disappeared, alone in the night sky. John and Athene-A raced for Apollo. Maya went to Rhe-A and Jay. Draco held on to a piece of ship conduit, trying to get himself under control from the smell of so much Atlantean blood. Shelly curled up in a corner and whimpered. Apollo was burned over most of his body. The suit could only discharge so much energy. His right arm and right leg below the knee, was in opposite corners of the bay. Nanites had the blood flow almost stopped. John grabbed a medical kit while Athene-A cradled his head in her lap. John injected him with stimulants and pain killers, and sprayed the stumps with a closing element. “Jay, how’s Rhe-A?”

Jay felt Rhe-A’s neck. “Pulse weak, but she’s alive, badly burned, though.” “She’ll be fine. Maya, you’re the next doctor. I need you.” Maya looked up at Jay, gave a nod, and took off in a blur. She took the equipment from John, examined it quickly, and then injected Apollo again. The bleeding stopped and the stumps began to heal over. His eyes flicked open, and focused on Maya. “You really do have pretty eyes.” She smiled, and then saw John and Athene-A watching the exchange. “Alright, Romeo, we’ve got to get you into the stasis regenerator.” “By the Great Creator, I hate that thing, and Shakespeare was an amateur.” Shelly came out of her hiding spot and grabbed Jay by the arm, crying on his shoulder. “Shell, get a hold of yourself.” “I almost died, again.” “We all almost died. Now, get off of me and go see if you can help Draco.” “Okay,” she timidly said, letting go. She slowly walked over to him. He had his back to her and was obviously shaking. She put a hand on his shoulder. He whipped around so fast it caused her to squeak. His eyes were blood red and fangs stuck out. He was trying to get the twist cap off of the flask. She put her hand on his and twisted the cap off. He stuck a fang in the flask and tilted it back. Like a junkie getting a fix. He stopped shaking and calmed down. Shelly put a hand on his holding the flask, and pulled it away. “Not so much at once, slowly,” she said, as if talking to a child. He focused on her. His eyes went back to normal, and his fangs retreated slowly. He went to take another drink when she put a hand over it. He gave her an ‘it’s okay,’ look. “A small sip,” she ordered, with an index finger up. “As you wish,” Miss Masters.” Jay looked from the unconscious woman to see Athene-A and John lifting Apollo with an invisible force. They went by giving him a nod. Maya was by him immediately, startling Jay, again.

Maya injected her with something. “Alright, Rhe-A, quit faking and wake up.” No motion. Maya slapped the unburned side of her face. Her eyes popped open, and she half raised up, before she fell back into Jay’s lap. “Damn you, Maya, and you talk about my bedside manner.” A smile grew across Maya’s dirt and blood smudged face. “Get her to the stasis pod. It will accelerate the healing.” She got up to go check on Draco. Jay helped her up, and put her arm over his shoulders and an arm around her waist. She winced, as he helped her ed Draco, Shelly, and Maya. He helped her to the med chamber, where, Apollo was being prepped, cracked one last joke before the capsule was closed and he went unconscious. John turned to help Jay, but Athene-A took his hand. She gave him a knowing glance, John got the message, and they strolled out of the chamber. “Help me with this suit,” Rhe-A softly said. Jay ran a hand down the unburned portion of the suit. It peeled away, hanging on, only by the melted portion of the skin. Rhe-A began pulling it off, taking layers of skin as she went. Jay coughed and gagged a little. She smiled a partially burned and dirt smudged face. “Don’t worry, mental control is body control, and drugs, of course. I don’t feel any pain.” “Good, because I’m feeling enough for the both of us.” “Are you hurt?” She became alert, and stood up straighter. “No, no, just a figure of speech. Meaning I’m feeling your pain for you.” She relaxed and pulled off the rest of her suit. It made a splat sound as it hit the floor. Jay picked her up gently, and laid her in the capsule. He reached over and pulled the silver thermal, healing blanket up to her neck. She looked at him with her one good blue eye. “You risked your life to come back for me, why?” “Ah, it’s what any well-trained monkey would do.” She smirked. “Chimpanzee.” Jay smirked back. She put an affectionate hand on his. “See you in a few hours.”

Before Jay could respond, her eyes were closed and a DD-220 was hovering overhead. He put her hand under the blanket and backed away. The energy field took over. The machine floated around with tentacles manipulating the pod. The capsule closed and pulled back against the wall vertically, while seating itself into the wall. Jay watched for a little while, wondering if this is how John felt when his mother was sealed in one after the Settler’s Field incident. He left and went into the main bay. “Aidan, where are we?” Jay heard John ask, as he approached. “In orbit. I wanted to be able to see 360X360,” Aidan said over the comm. “Good thinking, maintain position.” “Understood.” The group was gathered near the round table, which was quickly becoming a battle table. Draco, was his calm self again, spoke up, “May I make a request?” The smell of blood is quite disturbing, could we clean up?” With only a thought, a cleaning bot was hard at work sterilizing the deck. “I believe we are relatively safe, and I need to update Chrysalis,” John informed. “Everyone, back here in an hour. We’ll debrief, and plan for what’s next.” The group gladly dispersed. Jay went to a comm console and tried to Colonel Masters. She popped up on the 2-D screen in full uniform, sitting at her desk at the Pentagon. “Jay, are you and Shell, okay?” “Yes, Abigail, we are a little beat up, but fine.” “Thank God, our satellites, and this computer, led me to believe it was you guys there on the Yucatan. They’re still trying to put out the fires. They’re writing it off as a battle between drug Cartels. But no bodies have been recovered. Did you find what you were looking for?” “Yes, but it leads us to another clue.”

“The Destroyer Probability Program has alerted me to one infiltrator, so far. This thing can’t detect the one’s influenced by these aliens.” “Don’t alert the Destroyer. We could lose the element of surprise.” “This isn’t my first rodeo, Son. I’ll tag him, and when the time comes, we can bag’em all at once.” “Sounds like a plan.” “I’ve been in meetings with department heads. I have an appointment with the President in three days. I’ll be able to tell you more, then.” “How’s my father?” “He’s still in ICU, under a controlled coma. He has security, and the best medical attention. I’m sorry about your Aunt, she was identified, and I’ve taken care of all the funeral arrangements. Her house was ruled an accident by gas leak. We squelched the reports of a gun battle, laser fire, space ships. God, what a mess.” “Thank you, Abigail. I’ll have Shell call you. Don’t you ever sleep?” “Not after reading all this crap, I’ll never sleep again.” Jay gave her an understanding smile. “We’ll talk again, soon.” “You’re welcome, and may God help us all, Masters, out.” The screen went blank, Jay sat back, took a deep breath, before getting up to go to his quarters.

“Chrysalis is aware of our situation,” John started the briefing. “We won’t have , as not to draw attention to ourselves. However, there are teams of decoys. Maybe we can search unmolested. Jay and Miss Masters have ed her Mother, she is making headway in the US Government, to assist our side. Our injured will make a full recovery. Somehow, the Destroyers are able to track us. We need to find out how. Most notably, are they using our technology, or do they have the Gauntlet of Zeusticus. Aidan, damage report?” “Some chipped paint, but all systems are nominal.”

“Where do we go from here? Draco, we need your information.” The Battle Table group looked at him through glowing readouts. He stood up in his Three-piece black suit, topped off with a shiny black neck tie. He reached into his coat pocket, took out the silver-gray medallion and tossed it on the table. It didn’t hit the table, but hovered a few inches above it. Jay saw the side up was engraved with a teardrop and exploding star behind it. He ed seeing similar glyphs at some of his dig sites. The tip of the Atlantis shaped teardrop began to spin wildly in all directions. “What’s happening?” Jay asked. “It points to the highest concentration of agoam radiation, within its range. This ship is the highest concentration, so, it is pointing all around. We must be clear of this ship and closer to the target. Here are the coordinates I gave the suspicious person, long ago.” Draco plugged in the numbers and a topographical view of the area came up. “That’s the impact zones of the stray asteroids the Destroyers used to take down the shielding of power point 18,” Jay said, ing the incident from the history/mind sifter. Draco took the coin. “The coordinates are not exact, but I thought hiding them there would be a good idea. I acquired a few of them over the years from my brothers and sisters. I hid five of them in the adjacent crater.” “Excellent, that should give us enough range,” John excitedly said. “The superconductive autonomous memory metal vehicle runs on conventional power sources due to the lack of crystals. We can take it to the drop site.” John looked at Jay, he was beat, and tired. He looked at Shelly who, also looked tired. “Alright, we have a plan. I think we should slow down, get some rest. Try to answer some of those previous questions. We’ll leave orbit in twelve hours. Get some rest, or do some research, see you all in twelve.” Jay wanted to get going, but was tired. He didn’t want any more stimulants. So, he strolled to his quarters, shut the lights down, opened the blast window to see the Earth. He made his boots dissolve into his suit. He stretched out over his bed that was situated length ways along the window. He rolled over on his side and stared at the slow turning Earth, wondering if he was going to be able to save it. He drifted away.”

Jay dreamed deeply; the swirling morass coalesced into a familiar spacescape. Something felt ominous, wrong. A black batwing shape slid across the moon’s reflection. Jay took a deep breath. The ship fired on the planet with surgical skill. Explosions and destruction was catastrophic. The ship was rocked by incoming detonations. To Jay, the silence was deafening. Lights flashed and spread out like fireworks. Just when he thought he couldn’t be any more scared, he felt a presents, warm, caring. He opened his eyes to an Earth lit room. He saw a shadow near the door. Rhe-A moved into the dim light. Jay slowly sat up on the edge of the bed with a slight groan. “Your door was unsecured,” Rhe-A stated the obvious, to be obvious. “I know, I keep forgetting about that. How are you?” “I am not one hundred percent, but I will be, soon.” “Good. How long have I been out?” “Ten hours, thirty-three minutes.” “Why did you wake me?” “I...I surmised that you might want time to prepare for the mission.” “Why? You don’t need me on this one.” “John seems to think, that your closeness to the current situation, will be beneficial.” “Maybe, but I’m kinda tired of being shot at.” Jay thought he saw a smile. She came over and sat next to him on the bed. “You are correct, we don’t need you on this mission, but...I would feel more comfortable if you were there,” she said, without looking at him. “Well, in that case, I’d be happy to tag along.” He put a hand on her knee to help himself up. He could’ve swore he heard, or felt, a sigh of relief. He went to the bathroom and washed his face, and other duties his human body required. When

he came out, she was gone. He strolled out of the door. His boots melding over his feet as he went. He stepped into the bay to see everyone mingling around the vehicle. “Jay,” John said, “Rhe-A tells me you’ve agreed to go along.” “Wouldn’t miss it. How’s Apollo?” “Still healing, may take another day to be sure. Are you ready to go treasure hunting?” “That’s why I’m here, and to drive.” He quickly reached for the car door before he could interfere. John just waved a hand toward the driver’s side. Shelly intercepted Jay before he got in. “Jay, be careful this time, I couldn’t bear to lose you.” She then wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him on the lips. He finally took her arms away and broke the embrace. Rhe-A pretended not to notice as she got in the front middle seat. Draco noticed her demeanor quickly, but didn’t say anything. “Uh, I will. Besides, it’s just a simple recovery task. Make sure to help Aidan monitor our progress.” He got in and immediately pulled up the display and started selecting music. Rhe-A kept pretending she hadn’t noticed the exchange, as Draco sat next to her. Xen, Athene-A, and John took the back seat. The bay door opened to reveal a beautiful sunrise on the water. The shuttle hovered just above a calm sea of water. Jay pulled up the holo screen again, and said, “No, no, no, S.A.A.M. has got to blend in.” “Samm?” John asked from the back. “Your names are too long, it’s short for Superconductive Autonomous Memory Metal.” They all looked at each other in understanding. He manipulated a few symbols, with a grin, and Samm began to morph into a sleek cabin cruiser. He pushed a button on the steering wheel and cabin cruiser Samm leaped out into the water. He accelerated to blinding speeds across the ocean. The shuttle cloaked while banking right, and cleared the area. “JJ,” Athene-A said, hiding the stress in her voice, “We’re supposed to be

blending. Your ships don’t travel this fast.” “Oh, right.” He slowed down, but only slightly. The music played as he set the course, continually playing with the holographic controls. While gliding across the water, Draco took out his medallion and watched it hover in front of him. “The shuttle is out of range.” “Coming up on the coordinates,” Jay said. Samm slowed, and made a leisurely in a circular motion. It stopped and settled just above the water line. “We’re here, everybody out.” They exited the closed cabin and strolled out onto the deck. The sun was now well above the horizon. Athene-A reached in a compartment and pulled out several small backpack shaped bags. She slipped one on her back, causing the suit to transform into a scuba suit. She handed one to John, Xen, and then Draco. Jay wondered how he could see anything through the suits blacked out goggles. Jay stood there, watching Rhe-A help them with their equipment. “Where’s mine? And why don’t we just take the boat down?” Athene-A walked over to him. “This is just a simple retrieval mission. Sit back, enjoy the sunshine, and the view. There are not many places in the Galaxy quite like this. The vehicle may cause interference. We want to get it as fast as possible.” She gave a long look around. “This is such a beautiful planet.” She stopped as if reminiscing. “We’ll only be a little while.” She put her hand on his cheek. He put his hand on her hand. “Okay, Grandma.” She smiled, turned, and walked off the boat. Hovering just above the water, her helmet formed, as did her flippers. She hardly made a splash as she sank below the surface. John waved at Jay and followed her. Jay moved over to Draco. “How come you haven’t burst into flames?” “Ha, SPF 500,” “Ha, good one.”

“It is true we are susceptible to ultraviolet radiation; we can only tolerate a few hours in direct sunlight before third degree burns, and then, worse. Lesser vampires have even less protection. Enjoy the sunlight.” He turned and stepped off the boat with a lot less elegance. “Why are you not going?” “I was asked to look after you,” Rhe-A answered, while putting things away. He gave her a lifted eyebrow. “Who’s looking after who?” Jay thought he saw a blush. “We can look after each other.” He moved his hand along his sleeve. The E-suit morphed into a brightly colored knee length swim suit. He dashed into the cabin, and came out with a glass, clinking with ice. He used the small umbrella to stir it as he manipulated a builtin lounge chair. He took a drink, savored it, and then put on sunglasses before he leaned back on the lounge chair. Rhe-A just stood there, unsure what to do. She came to a decision, and disappeared into the cabin. A few minutes later, she came out and went to a lounge chair next to Jay. She was straightening out her towel on the reclined chair when Jay opened his eyes. He lifted the sunglasses, and almost spilled his drink. Her body had completely healed, revealed by the fact that she was wearing the smallest blue bikini he had ever seen. She caught him staring. “Is this appropriate? I just looked it up, it is the latest design in Earth fashion.” “Uh, it’s perfect,” he said, looking at her loose black hair around her brown tanned shoulders, against a light blue backdrop. “It’s all perfect,” he repeated as she sat down next to him, and leaned back. The world was finally quiet. Only the sounds of distant birds and small waves slapping the water. Jay reached over and put his hand on hers. She didn’t draw back. He felt her mind touching his. He knew he was a loud open book, opposed to hers, which had blocks, and doors that were only slightly cracked open. Only the doors he was allowed to see. He expected as much, and relaxed. Jay wasn’t sure how long he had been out, but the ice in his drink was almost

melted. The sloshing of water brought him around. He saw John floating in the air above the boat as the others followed. Rhe-A was already standing there to meet them. Jay shook off the grogginess, and ed her. “That was fast.” “We didn’t find it,” John frustratingly said. “I don’t think it’s there.” “But, it’s gotta be there.” “The medallion was no help, because of the composition of the surrounding area, our scanners are intermittent. We’re going to need a larger search crew. I’ll call Chrysalis for assistance.” “Wait, before you do that, let me try. I did my scuba training in Cancun, during one of my spring breaks. Finished my certification in Hawaii, great place.” Athene-A, and John, looked at each other. “Alright,” she said, “We’ll give you an hour.” “Great.” He waved a hand over the swim suit leg, and the E-suit formed into a scuba suit.” “I’ll accompany him,” Rhe-A said. “Excellent choice in swimsuit attire,” Draco said, while iring her stature. “Thank you, it is the latest fashion.” Her suit changed to a scuba outfit. They put on the backpacks. “The atmospheric demand regulator backpack will help propel you through the water.” Athene-A instructed. “It’s also a backup rebreather, and emergency features. -one hour, then we call for help.” “Draco,” Jay said to him, “may I borrow the medallion?” He looked leery, as if not trusting anyone for a long time. He slowly handed it over. Jay took it, and then did a back flip off the cabin cruiser. Rhe-A calmly slid beneath the surface. The helmet allowed him to see clearly. He and Rhe-A sank quickly. He was fascinated by the readouts on his visor; where he was, in relation to Samm, depth, water pressure, and Rhe-A’s location. He tried to calm his breathing from

the excitement. The incredible feeling of not being encumbered at this depth. “You should slow your breathing more, as not to hyperventilate,” Rhe-A said. “Are you speaking over the comm, or, are you in my head?” “Comm system, your mind is still very chaotic.” The power pack on his back, pushed him as fast as he wanted to go. He felt none of the ocean’s pressure at this depth, and wondered how far down he could go. He pulled up just before he reached the bottom. Fish and plant life were a little sporadic. He walked along the bottom, looking for a marker. All good treasure hiders leave markers. He took out the coin and held it. He felt the direction he needed to go. So, he slogged across the bottom of the ocean, turning as if circling in on a target. He looked to is right and saw something partially sticking up out the muck. He waved away algae and sand to reveal an anchor. Finding the chain, he followed it, until he found a box attached at the end. He cleared away debris, and pulled on the box, it didn’t move. A little more effort made no difference. Rhe-A slipped up beside him, and took the lock and chain in one hand, snapping it like a twig. “Show off,” Jay said. He opened the box, a medallion sat in a plastic bag. He griped the coin, gave a satisfying grin, and took off toward the surface. Water trailed behind him as he exploded out of the water. He lightly landed on the deck with elegance. “Now, who’s the show off,” Rhe-A said, floating down next to him. His suit went back to a swim suit, while he held out the medallion and dropped it into Athene-A’s hand. A quick flick, and the other was caught by Draco, with barely a flinch. “JJ, you’re getting more amazing every day. I’m so proud of you.” “Thanks, Grandma.” John patted him on the shoulder and took the medallion. Draco handed over his and John set them in the air in front of the group. The coins spun slowly and tilted downward and stopped. Both tips of the teardrop pointing in the same direction.

“Apparently they work,” Draco said, leaning down to examine them. “They are pointing to where I hid the others.” “I thought you had only one,” Jay said, also staring at the coins. “I said, I acquired a few from my dead brothers and sisters over time. Please try to keep up.” Before Jay could respond, Draco continued, “I hid mine in the northern creator.” He moved next to Xen. The holo-controls appeared, and he poked in the coordinates. The vehicle took off in a northwesterly direction. Jay leaned into the motion, completely unnecessary with the gravity stabilizers. His mind was going to have to be retrained. The shielding was just above the water line allowing the wind to blow over the top of them. The sun was high. Jay sat back on his lounge chair and watched the world go by through sunglasses. RheA took her chair, examining the medallion they had found. Her unruly hair was now pulled back into a tight pony tail. She ran her fingers over its surface. “find something?” Jay asked. “No, just iring the workmanship. Hermes and Despin-A are true artist.” Jay had not seen her like this before, it made her seem more-human. “Yes, they are.” He took a sip of a new drink. “Want a sip?” He held it out to her. “It’s nonalcoholic.” She stopped studying the artifact, looked at him suspiciously, and then took it from him and drank. She handed it back, now studying the taste. Samm slowed. The controls had been moved to the deck. Xen and Draco were reading readouts and pointing. John and Athene-A stood nearby gazing at the blue planet. The vehicle stopped and hovered. Draco and Xen walked off the edge, and sank out of sight. Athene-A and John strolled over to Rhe-A and Jay, and sat down.”It shouldn’t take long,” Athene-A assured. “Where do you think the hunt will lead us next?” “Gramps was crazy smart. He did a lot of traveling. He said, he liked the cruises. Could be anywhere.” The water splashed, and in a second Draco and Xen were on the deck, sifting through a bag. He pulled out a small box. This one was sealed. He slipped his ring into the slot, and it popped open. A pinch between his fingers revealed five medallions.

A loud whistling noise got everyone’s attention, as alarms rang out. The explosion rocked the boat, sending all to the deck. E-Suits formed, as they scrambled to their feet, dashing below just in time to feel another explosion almost in the same spot. John got to the main controls first, and zipped away. Quickly getting up to speed, the boat zigged and zagged to avoid the exploding shells being lobbed at them. “Why can’t we go faster?” Jay excitedly asked. “We’re encountering the same jamming affect as the temple,” John said, as he quickly ran through the diagnostics. The speed boat settled on the water. “The gravity stabilizers are out, cloak is out. The engine is running at only a fraction of its power. Switching to manual to conserve energy.” The boat hopped on the water, jarring bone and teeth. “Sporadic readings indicate a US Destroyer class warship is attacking us,” Athene-A informed them. “How appropriate,” Jay remarked between jolts. “Can we out run them?” “Not now,” John called out. “Call for back up?” “Comm systems are jammed,” Rhe-A added. “Aidan will realize something-” an explosion cut Jay off, launching the boat into the air. It landed nose first and dove under water, and then back to the surface, slowing their progress, “is wrong, and send help.” “That could take some time we may not have. They are zeroing in on our position.” John continued to maneuver erratically. Jay reached into his pocket and took out his cell phone. “Low tech is your best bet. I’ve got a signal.” “Good, we can order pizza,” Draco sarcastically said, between jolts. “Hello, hello, Abigail, Jay, we are under attack by a US Navy Destroyer, call

him off.” “Where are you?” came her voice. Rhe-A quickly rattled off longitudinal and latitude coordinates. Jay repeated them, and waited. “They’re gaining on us,” John stated, as an explosion sprayed water over the vehicle. “Jay, Jay,” Abigail said over the phone, “that Destroyer left port yesterday with only a partial crew. The Captain is considered rogue. There’s a small carrier task force in the area. We’re sending help. Buy yourself some time.” The static was too much, and Jay hung up. “You heard the lady, buy time.” John got that determined look on his face. “I need a mental shield in the next five seconds. The Atlanteans were focused just as the shell made a direct hit. The shock drained them all and pushed the boat under the water. It popped back up and almost came to a stop. John pushed the boat forward as fast as it could go. “We can’t survive too many more of those,” Athene-A said, glistening sweat. They looked over at each other. “John, you’ve got that look.” He whipped the boat around, causing a shell to go way over them. He charged the Destroyer. “Alright, people, I need you to levitate this vehicle when I say.” He took the yoke and pressed a few buttons. “Cabin is pressurized, and sealed.” The gun couldn’t be lowered fast enough, letting the shells go over them. The ship could now be seen coming fast, head on. It loomed large in the screen when John gave his metal signal. The Atlanteans began to chant. Bullets could be heard ricocheting off the boat’s memory metal as it went up and over the top of the ship, along its keel. Missiles came out all ports, but since the little ship was so close, they didn’t have time to lock on, so harmlessly swished by them. The boat dove ed the stern, and vanished under the water. The Destroyer ceased firing and began searching. “How long do you think we can hid here?” Jay asked, looking out of the window at the hull of the Destroyer.

“Hopefully, long enough,” John replied, not quite as confident as he usually was. Jay looked over at Rhe-A. She had a strange look on her face. “John,” she said with a shaky voice, “You know I’m susceptible to Destroyer influence. I can feel them...calling me.” “Hang on, Rhe-A, a little longer,” John said, as soothingly as he could. Jay reached over and took her hand. “Hey, look at me.” She slowly turned and focused on his face. “There, concentrate on me, okay, I have a thousand really bad jokes, don’t make me use them.” She smirked, and started to relax a little. “Say, you’d think after being exposed to them, you would be immune, like chicken pox, right?” She swallowed hard. “One is easy to handle, but when there’s more, it’s much more difficult.” “So, you’re strong, resist. While they’re using your weakness against you, try to find theirs.” Her eyebrows raised, as if having an idea. “John, if you help me, I might be able to break their hold.” “Of course, everyone in.” The cabin filled with a low chant, as they concentrated together. Jay tightened his grip. Their mind connection began to bleed through. He could see through their mind’s eye. Stars raced by, planets exploded, solar systems were washed away. The lines started to blur between dimensions and reality. Jay couldn’t tell if he was holding his breath, or breathing nothing. Brightness almost blinded him, while sliding by a couple of black holes. A new star pattern emerged. He could feel the other minds, say, this is the Andromeda Galaxy, is time rolling back, or is it just memory. He wasn’t sure if he said that out loud, or just thought it. Solar systems raced by like fireflies. Suddenly the movement stopped in front of a blue-green lush planet. He could hear voices in his head, Terrah. Without warning, gray figures stood in front of them. Their oval black eyes stared at them with interest, the connection was broken immediately. Everyone connected, breathed heavily, and then calmed themselves.

“What happened?” Draco asked, looking confused at what had transpired. Apparently, the Destroyers have known about Terrah for a long time.” Jay only added to Draco’s confusion. “I’ve got torpedoes in the water, circling, they’ve locked on to us,” Athene-A reported from the sketchy readouts. “Evidentially, they don’t care if they blow themselves up as well.” “Alright, time to leave,” John said, sinking the ship further down, and then pulling up, blasting above the water surface. Jay was back on his cell phone. “Abigail, we really need assistance.” The phone crackled. “Jay, my satellite images show you’re headed toward the task force. Aircraft are inbound, maybe-,” He couldn’t hear her over the blast that flipped the boat over into a barrel role in the air and landing back on its hull. John dove as deep as he could. “John, task force aircraft are on the way to help. We need to keep going in this direction.” Jay looked down to see a puddle of water collecting on the floor. John just nodded. They skipped along the water like a stone, and then went airborne, until he sensed they were being targeted. He then jerked the ship to the left, and then right, diving for the water. Shells and tracer bullets whizzed by them. When they surfaced, the shelling suddenly stopped. Jay looked back to see Andromeda firing away at the Navy ship, with whatever it could get to work. “Thank you, Aidan,” Jay said, loud enough for the others to hear. He watched as the shuttle took missile after missile hit. Aidan maneuvered the sluggish shuttle around, but couldn’t dodge all of the fire power. Smoke began to wisp out from venting plates, while the Destroyer had large chunks blown off, smoking and spreading debris in all directions. “I don’t think the shuttle is going to hold up,” Jay expressed his concern. “Tell Aidan he needs to get out of there.” Shells began landing near them, again. “Here they come, again,” John stated the obvious.

A squadron of low flying F-35’s came swooping in from overhead. Aidan, bowed out of the fight, swinging around, trying to catch up with the small boat. Missile upon missile impacted the Destroyer sending plumes of smoke and metal everywhere. But still, the ship chased the little boat. The aircraft switched to bombs and laid out a pattern of destruction that could be seen beyond the horizon. The little boat began pulling away. “They’ve slowed them down; I think we’re almost out of their range. They were all looking back when the warship exploded in a mushroom cloud. The shock wave was barely felt, as John slowed the boat. Instruments began to reboot and come back on line, warning sounds of all the damage blinked and scrolled across the screen. They could now visually see the task force in the distance. Comm lines came back on. “John, are all of you, alright?” Aidan’s voice boomed. “Yes, we are unhurt, but the vehicle...uh...Samm is badly damaged.” “Jay must be naming things again. Prepare for pick up.” Aidan pulled the smoking shuttle ahead, while the Atlanteans lifted the vehicle into the bay. The last of the smoke was vented and Samm came to rest in its usual spot. “I’m getting a request,” John said, flicking a button. “Unidentified flying object, this is Captain Fred Smith. We have orders to escort you to the USS George Washington. Follow us, or be destroyed.” “Wow,” Jay said, “I always wanted to be a UFO.” “Aidan,” John spoke through the comm, “can you get us out of here?” “We’re badly damaged. I’m not sure we can withstand another attack.” “Very well, we’ll get started on repairs. Do as they ask.” “Unidentified flying object, please respond or we’ll open fire,” Captain Smith said again. “Other, unidentified flying object, we mean you no harm, and thank you for your assistance. But we’ll be on our way, now,” Aidan shakily said.

“This is Rear iral Hernandez, of the USS George Washington, commanding Task Force X-ray. My orders are for you to follow my escort back to our ship, or I will destroy you.” “We are in international waters, we demand to be released,” Aidan kept stalling. “I’m only giving you one more chance to comply,” the seriously gruff voice of the iral came over the comm, again. “This is Captain John-Athain, of the...” He cut the comm and looked around for help. “Atlantean Space Ship?” “ASS,” Jay said, shaking his head. “No, no, leave the names to me. Terrah Space Ship, TSS, or Top-Secret Ship, TSS, try that.” “This is Captain John-Athain, of the TSS Andromeda-” A spark shot across the bay, causing the ship to slightly dip into the water. “We’re going to have to set down somewhere,” Aidan remarked over the comm. John let out a breath. “Very well, Rear iral Hernandez, it appears we are in need of assistance, at the moment.” “Please follow,” Captain Smith’s voice said from the lead aircraft. “You heard him, Aidan.” The fighter aircraft took up positions all around the shuttle and headed for the flattop.

Chapter Twenty-Four: Stand Down The shuttle limped into place near the aft of the aircraft carrier. Moving carefully, the shuttle sat down, taking up most of the aft section of the runway, and partially hanging over the side. The carrier sank deeper into the water. Ballast weight was shuffled to the bow to level it out. Crews and sailors stood around the deck with their mouths open. The ship was nothing like anything they’d ever seen, real or imagined. A squad of Marines, fully armored, and armed, ran out onto the deck, pushing sailors out of the way. They did a half circle in front of the ship, weapons drawn. The comm kept repeating, “This is iral Hernandez, commanding the USS George Washington. Come out. Captain Athain, please respond.” The group stood around the bay. “Aidan, how long for repairs?” John asked. Aidan stopped diagnosing and categorizing the damage. “The nanits, and bots, will have Andromeda flyable in six hours and forty-three minutes.” “Thank you. Well, how are we going to talk our way out of this one?” John walked over to the comm station. “Back up system is better than none.” He waved a hand. Colonel Masters appeared on a 2-D screen. “Hello, Colonel.” “John, you’re alive, How’s Shell, and the rest?” “We’re all unhurt. I’ll let you talk to her in a moment. We took some damage from the Destroyer controlled warship. We are currently sitting on the aircraft carrier USS George Washington, making repairs. We need at least six hours. Rear iral Hernandez is not very patient. I believe he’ll use violence to gain entry, and our secrets.” “I understand. I’ve put the whole carrier fleet on comm black out. Don’t know how long that will last. But, yes, Hernandez is a prick, but I believe he is loyal. We had a rather heated discussion, and after exchanging a few threats, the t Chiefs of Staff shut him down. He gives orders, but is not very good at taking them. So, he’s probably not very happy, and I venture to guess, his crew is loyal to him. I’ll try to get through to him again, and try to get him to stand down. If it

comes down to , you can use the cover story of top-secret assets, above his security clearance, or classified information of national security. Keep your answers short and vague.” “Understood, Colonel. We have done this before.” “Sorry, I’m just worried.” “We will be fine. Now, Shelly wishes to speak with you. Until we speak again, Colonel.” “Good luck, John.” Shelly moved in and started quickly chatting with her mother. John moved over to the group. “You heard her, we’ll probably have to make in order to avoid violence, and buy time.” “You had better do something soon,” Aidan said, “He’s getting really irritated.” John could hear him in the background. “-if you don’t respond in five minutes, I’ll blow a hole in your hull and walk in. Do you read me?!” iral Hernandez, your hostility is unwarranted.” “Who am I speaking to?” he gruffly asked. “Uh, Captain John-Anee-Athain of the...TSS Andromeda.” Jay smiled, and gave him a thumbs up. “Thank you for your assistance. We’ll make our repairs and be on our way.” “Oh, no, you’re not getting away that easy. I demand you allow me to board.” “Um, I’m afraid that’s not allowed.” “Classified,” Jay whispered. “Yes, I mean, classified. You don’t have the clearance.” “I assure you, I have the highest clearance, and you’re on my ship. That gives me in command of your vessel. Now, open up.”

John thought for a second. “iral Hernandez, I cannot allow that, but we are hungry. Could you spare a meal.” Everyone, who wasn’t helping with repairs, had a quizzical look on their faces. Jay could only imagine what the look on the iral’s would be. “Uh, well, I could have the Mess, Chief Master Sergeant prepare something.” “Excellent, we’ll meet you on the deck in one hour.” “Uh, okay, I look forward to it.” John waved a hand over the console. “I bought us an hour. Now, we’ll have to stall for the rest. Let’s see where those coins lead us.” Rhe-A took the one she had been iring, and tossed it on the battle table. Draco took his six out, and did the same. They never touched the table and just hovered in a scrambled mess. Suddenly, they formed a triangle, all spinning in place, where they abruptly stopped. All the tear drop tips pointed in the same direction. John waved a hand and brought up a topographical of the area, with the coins representing their position. The medallions pointed Northeast; a line was drawn all the way around the planet. “I don’t see anything significant on that bearing,” Jay stated, as he walked around, studying it. The Atlanteans looked at each other, like they were mentally communicating. “Okay, what gives?” “Power point eighteen is on that path, “Athene-A said, not taking her eyes off of the table. “The one that was captured by the Destroyers. I should’ve guessed. Why? Do we need more coins? Do the Destroyers already have the tracker skull?” John studied the situation. “No, Jay, I don’t think we need more medallions, and why would the Destroyers risk exposing themselves if they already had the skull, no, something else.” “Neutral area,” Rhe-A started, “The Destroyer power point area has a dimensional bend to it. Negation, if the coins are placed in that area, there will be no interference, and they will point to the closest, largest deposit of agoam

crystals, or anything that was exposed to them in large concentrations.” “Excellent, Rhe-A,” John told her. “But we would be walking in their front door, and ringing the bell.” “But what if we walked up to the door with a fleet of warships?” Jay suggested. “Yes, the Destroyers may not want a confrontation on their doorsteps.” “May not,” Maya blurted out. “I think this is our chance. We are going to take it,” John sounded optimistic. “How are you going to convince that arrogant iral to take us there?” Draco sullenly added. “Barter system. I’ll Chrysalis, and update them and have the rescue party stand by.”

The day was calm and bright. John emerged first from a side hatch, and looked around at the contingent of Marines with their weapons leveled on him. His dark blue E-suit had the shape of a military uniform , plane, with only black swirls on the sleeve to signify his command rank. Athene-A’s jumpsuit was a reminder of the past, also dark blue with red swirls on her sleeves. Xen pushed back his long black hair. He had slacks and his flannel brown shirt. Jay came out in his customary civilian attire of jeans and a polo shirt. Rhe-A followed with a utilitarian jumpsuit with white swirls on her sleeves. Her black hair pulled back in a bun to reveal a confident and calm facade. Shelly stepped out in a skin tight, thigh length, white dress. Her lips bright red with white matching earrings, wide rimmed white framed sunglasses, and a matching clutch. Jay thought she looked like a movie star stepping off a plane for a USO show. All the males on the deck stared, slack jawed at the sight. “Stand down, Gentlemen. They are our guests,” Hernandez said, and then moved toward them in his white uniform with gold shoulder boards, silver anchors, and two stars. He had his Second in Command in tow. Two Marines followed one

step behind them, one on each side. John wasn’t sure about the military protocol greetings, salute, a hundred different ways, bow, or just a, how do you do. Before he had to make a decision, Shelly stepped in front, brushing her golden hair out of her face from the light wind. “iral,” she said, while holding out her hand. He abruptly stopped. “I’m so pleased to meet you.” “Ms. Masters, good to see you again. You probably don’t me, you couldn’t have been more than seven years old, when we met at a military ball your parents brought you to. You look a lot like your Mother. I hope your disposition is better.” “I do , vaguely, and my disposition is better. My Mother can be...intense, at times. Please, let me introduce you to my shipmates. For security purposes, we’ll only do first names for most.” She moved in close and took his huge arm, and stepped toward the odd group. This is Captain Athain.” John stepped forward and was met by a huge hand. He took it and shook. “Nice to see you in person,” he said, letting go of his hand. “Beautiful ship you have here.” “Good to finally meet you. Your ship is very...unusual.” “That she is.” “And this is Athena,” Shelly continued, in order to keep things short and vague. Athene-A stepped forward and shook his hand without comment. “This is Xen.” He did the same. “This is Rhea,” she quickly said, and moved on. “This is my close friend, and colleague, Jay Rodgers.” He just waved from the back of the group. “This is my First Officer, Captain Shelby.” The tall red-haired man just nodded his head. “Just the bunch of you run this ship?” “Uh,” John started, “I have three other crew, one is injured, and the other two are affecting repairs.”

“Should I have my surgeon take a look at your crewman?” “Not necessary, his injuries are not life threatening.” “So,” the iral said, putting a hand on top of Shelly’s, “can you tell me why I just sunk one of our own ships?” “iral,” Shelly replied, looking up at him, “I’m famished.” “As you wish my Dear, if you all will follow me to the mess hall.” He gracefully swung Shelly around, and started for the closest hatch. He snuck a look back at Andromeda. The group followed closely, glancing about, as the Marines gawked, with their weapons ready. They walked into the large mess hall, where sailors stood by to serve their guests. Hernandez went to the head of the rectangular metal table. First Officer Shelby sat to the iral’s right. Hernandez smiled and pulled a chair out for Shelly to his left. The others mingled. John strolled by Jay, and quietly asked, “Do you see any Destroyers?” “No, none, but I still can’t tell if anyone has been influenced, or not.” “Very good. We know they have a limited range. Keep an eye out.” “Understood.” Jay moved up next to Shelly , and sat down. Rhe-A took the seat next to Jay. John made his way to the other side of the table and sat. “I was informed, some of you are vegetarians,” the stocky female Master Chief said. Her demeanor denoted she was all business. “I’ve had salads prepared, for the rest, roast beef, or chicken.” “Thank you, Cookie. You know what I’ll have,” Hernandez said, without even looking up at her. She made a motion with her hand, and the sailors quickly moved around the

table, taking orders. They quickly disappeared into the galley; John could sense three armed Marines nearby. iral Hernandez put his elbows on the table, and coupled his fingers into a fist under his chin. “Why did I sink a Destroyer?” John mimicked Jay, by putting a napkin in his lap. “We were on a training mission when we were attacked by the rogue Destroyer. During the battle, we received intel, that the Captain had been compromised. He knew our location and sought to capture Andromeda for her technology. We believe he enlisted help from mercenaries. I don’t believe there were any sailors on board. It left port without them.” “So, if your ship is so advanced, how did a mere sea vessel almost capture you?” “They employed a new counter measure we were unaware of. We are studying its affects, now.” “I can understand technology secrets, cloak and dagger missions, government agendas, and need-to-know, but what I can’t fit in, is, why two unknown, unpublished archeologist are involved. I think the real answers lie there.” John looked at Athene-A, who, looked back. The rest of the group quieted. “Yes, that’s what I thought.” Hernandez said, unfolding his hands and leaning back in his chair. “He reminds me a lot of Augustus,” John said to Athene-A. “Yes, he does. Maybe we should have him tested.” John smiled, and turned back to Hernandez. “That’s classified.” Jay breathed a sigh of relief. “I assure you, iral, what we do is for the security, and benefit of our country.” “I truly want to believe you Mr. Rodgers, but all of you are to be detained until identification, and all security measures have been met.” They sat stunned. The sailors came in with the food and drink. They momentarily broke the tension.

Shelly put her hand on the iral’s arm. “Rafael, is all this military, muckity muck really necessary? I mean, my Mother gave us the okay, right?” “While I’ll it, you are a thousand times easier to deal with than your Mother, she’s not here, and I have to answer for a sunken ship.” Shelly pulled away, sat back, and pouted. “Trust me, iral, for your own sanity, you don’t want to know what’s going on.” “That makes it even that much more intriguing.” She rolled her eyes. “I warned you.” “iral, I cannot allow you to detain us. I’ve told you all I can,” John pleaded. Hernandez waved a finger, and the Marines stepped out with weapons drawn. “iral,” John said, without looking surprised, “I can also assure you; violence is not needed. Shall we eat?” John calmly picked up a fork and started to eat. “This is actually pretty good.” The others stuttered, but followed suit. It was the iral’s turn to be surprised. He waved off the guards. “My compliments to the Chef,” John said between bits, looking up at the stone face of the Master Chief, who stood stoically behind the iral. “I don’t know if this is the appropriate time.” He took a piece of paper out of his breast pocket. “Could you take us to these coordinates?” He slid the paper across the table. Hernandez was surprised, again. He didn’t like surprises. He laughed a burly laugh. “Very good, Captain. Keep your enemy off guard, guessing.” “iral, you are not my enemy.” He leaned further back in his chair, and folded his arms. “Ah, very good. You have piqued my curiosity.” He picked up the piece of paper, and glanced at it. “Of course.” Hernandez sarcastically said. “If you take us there...I will tell you all I can.” Hernandez looked John in the eye. He leaned forward. “If this is a hoax, or a

trick, I will do everything I can to take you down.” “Understood.” “First Officer Shelby!” He started, and then slid the piece of paper to him. “Take us to the center of the Bermuda Triangle.”

A full day at full stream, brought the fleet close to their destination. Only vertical lift aircraft were allowed to take off due to Andromeda taking up so much runway. Its crew worked on countering the dampening field that hampered their technology. Constant communication with Chrysalis, had ships standing by to assist. John met Hernandez, and his entourage at the hatch. “iral, you are punctual.” “Alright, Captain, cut the crap, you’re stalling.” John smirked, wondering when he figured it out. “Would you walk with me, iral?” He waved off his escort, and they strolled across the deck, out of earshot. The wind was still calm. The movement of the ship was only noticeable by the movement of the horizon. The light blue sky was accented by the dark blue water. “iral,” John started, “there is a force out there, so terrible that it can annihilate this world, and the solar system. Can you fathom that kind of destructive power? We have resigned ourselves to stopping it.” They kept walking. “Captain Athain, the world is on the brink of destruction every day. That’s why I’m here.” “See, that is the limited thinking that stunts you. I’m talking about enough power to destroy this solar system.” “That kind of power would take a super nova.”

“Precisely.” “Who has that kind of power?” “An entity that can posses humans, take over their bodies.” “You mean demons, or ghosts. Ha.” “They have been called many things over time. I would say more extraterrestrial in nature.” “Ha, Ha, somehow I knew aliens would come into the conversation sooner or later; advanced technological ship, possessions, Bermuda Triangle.” He shook his head. “You’re not going to talk me out of what you promised.” “No, I’m trying to prepare you. Mostly, because we will eventually need help in combating this menace.” “You’re serious, or crazy.” “A little of both. But we believe the Captain of that Destroyer ship was a possessed individual.” “What did they hope to gain by attacking you?” “They are after our classified power source, which would benefit them greatly. I am here to prevent that from happening. What I’m trying to say, is, they are just a detachment, and they are dangerous. More dangerous to you than you are to yourselves. As for you, what you see on that ship will change your life forever, and the more prepared you are-the less mad you might think you are. Still want to go through with it?” “With a story like that, oh, hell yah.” John shook his head. “As you wish.” They walked back to the shuttle. John reached for the hatch, and it slid open. “The deal was for you only, iral.” “Sir,” the First Officer jumped in, “I can’t let you go in there alone.”

“Thank you for your concern, Mr. Shelby. Give me your sidearm. I’ll be fine.” The First Officer unbuckled the belt, and handed it over. “That is really unnecessary, iral”. “It will make my crew feel better.” “Alright.” They entered the short hallway that doubled as an airlock. The hatch made a light hiss as it sealed. John waved the next door open and led the iral through. Walking into the bay, the first thing he saw was the car, which should’ve been a boat. Holograms whirled at different locations, lights softly blinked, most of the crew were standing around the battle table. Jay and Shelly moved to intercept, thinking their presents may make things easier. “iral, welcome to Andromeda,” Jay proudly said. Hernandez was so intrigued; he barely noticed the duo. Shelly took his arm, making him jump. “Let me show you our research center.” She led him to a row of computers. “Here we can tap into all computer systems.” She pulled up a holographic image, and then manipulated items until she came to a satellite feed. It showed the naval fleet. She zoomed in on the aircraft carrier. His mouth was open. “Where’s Andromeda?” “We are able to manipulate data streams, almost instantaneously. A type of stealth technology. We are there, just not visible to computers.” “This, itself, could be a manipulation.” She let out an exasperated breath, and then moved some more items around. The carrier’s comm Officer popped up in 3-D. “Call him.” “How?” “Just speak.”

“Ensign Spiegle, this is iral Hernandez.” The sailor jumped, looked around, spotted his half headset and put it on. “Sir, is that you?” “What’s our heading, Ensign?” “Still on course, Sir.” “What happened in the mess hall three nights ago that had everyone laughing?” “Uh, Lieutenant Daniels dumped his plate of mac and cheese in his lap, Sir,” he said, looking confused at the question. The iral was astonished. “Uh, I’m fine, steady as she goes. I thought Akerman was on duty?” The Ensign looked around as if being watched. “Uh, he swapped shifts with Peterson, Sir.” “Very well, stay on alert. Hernandez, out.” “Aye Sir, GW out.” Shelly poked at the air, shutting off the display. He stood up straight, as if realizing, for the first time, that this was all real. He looked around, hungry for more. He stopped his gaze on the car, realizing, where would they put a boat. “Over here,” iral,” John said, looking over the battle table. It displayed multiple topographical areas around the world, and some off world. John waved a hand; it showed a town. He zoomed in on it to show a house, and children playing in the back yard. Hernandez walked up to the table, and put his hand on it to steady himself. “That’s my Daughter’s house, my Grandchildren.” The view became threedimensional from a horizontal point of view. “How...?” “We tapped into the security feeds, and all other computer-generated items. The

computer programs correlate all this information, and fills in the blanks to give us a finished product. Would you like to speak to them?” He starred. “No! turn it off.” The scene shut off on his command. He began to pace. “This is alien technology?” “From your vantage point, yes,” John said. He rubbed his face with one hand. Aidan stepped out of a control room, and said, “All systems are optimal, repairs are complete.” “Uh, oh,” Shelly said, and gracefully moved away. Hernandez looked up at the seven-foot-tall bull man, and froze. “Uh, sorry Captain, too soon?” The iral unstuck his brain, and pulled his weapon. He backed up frantically, waving the pistol around. “iral calm down. We are not the enemy. Please,” John said, with his hands up. Maya was right next to him. He pointed the gun at her. She instinctively went on the defensive, by showing her red eyes and fangs. He jumped and stumbled backwards, trying to put something between him and the aliens. “You’re the aliens, you’re the monsters.” “Rafael relax, if we wanted you dead, you would be. There’s no need for violence.” John moved closer to him. “Please, put the weapon away. It’s not needed, you are safe.” Hernandez was aiming at John’s chest. Shelly giggled. “I told you so. I tried to warn you.” “Maya, put your fangs away, Ms. Masters, shut up.” John turned his attention back to Rafael, while Shelly puffed out a bottom lip. “If you wish to shoot me, then go ahead. No one will harm you; I promise.” John stepped closer and put his chest against the barrel of the pistol. The iral’s eyes began to focus, John

could see him accepting. He slowly lowered the weapon. “Excellent, now, just put it away, take a deep breath, and we can talk.” “Okay...Okay,” he said, slowly slipping the pistol into its holster. He wiped perspiration off of his forehead, and took the deep breath. “I’m better, sorry.” Aidan stepped forward and stuck out a massive hand. “I am Aidan, it is an honor to meet you iral Hernandez.” He shook his hand with his mouth partially open. Jay moved up next to him. “Rafael, it’s going to be alright. We are the good guys.” “Hum,” Aidan started, “he has the same look Colonel Masters had.” “Another good sign,” John concluded, “That, and you haven’t gone insane.” “Yet,” the iral quipped. The group snickered, making him feel even more uneasy. Apollo came out of the medical bay, and said loudly, “So, when were you going to wake me, the next millennia?” everyone jumped at the distraction. “Oh, I was unaware we had company. Welcome aboard, I think. John, where are we?” “Near power point eighteen.” “Oh...If you need me, I’ll be in my quarters-catching up.” He left as quickly as he had arrived. “That would be Apollo, and she, would be Maya. Now, iral, if you will observe the battle table. He shakily looked down, as he leaned on it for . “ Colonel Masters,” John said to the table. Her 3-D image popped up. She was sitting in her office. “Colonel, good to see you again.” “Hello, John, is something wrong?” “I will get to that, first, I would like to introduce you to our newest member,

Rear iral Hernandez.” Her 3-D image faced the iral. “Ah, I can tell by the look on your face, you met Aidan. Ha, not such a pompous jackass now, are you?” “Why you arrogant sea witch-” “Good, that’s the leader I know, now, listen up,” she sighed at his turmoil, “look Rafael, take a few deep breaths, open your mind and just except it all. You can trust the Atlanteans.” He softened. “It is difficult. Atlanteans?” “Don’t worry, it gets worse.” “I was afraid of that.” “Colonel,” John interrupted, “the task force is near the Destroyer’s base. If this does not go well, make sure to relay all information to whom you deem worthy, and continue the fight.” “What about Shell, she’s no soldier.” “I have an escape plan for her, and Jay, not to worry.” “Very well, do you need ?” “Right now, no, I don’t want to give too much away. So, continue to monitor our progress.” “Understood.” “We will you with results.” “I have a meeting with the President tomorrow morning. I don’t know how it will go, but I will give it my best shot at convincing him.” “May the Great Creator be with you, and enlightenment guide you.” “Same to you, John, Masters, out.”

“That helped,” Hernandez said. “Atlanteans?” “Actually,” Rhe-A said, from behind him, “this has gone much better than I expected. The indoctrination of books, television, and electronic media, over the last one hundred years, must have had a larger impact on the psyche of our Cousins. I’m not sure yet if this is good, or bad. The indoctrination has happened in a much shorter time span than originally calculated. If done right, we could get our Cousins to help us even more.” “That would greatly enhance our cause,” John answered. “Yes, but for this event to have occurred so soon.” Rhe-A looked at Jay for an answer she knew he couldn’t have. “It may invariably tie us together, whether we want it to or not.” “The universe just gets bigger and bigger,” Athene-A added. “Jay, could you brief the iral on our history, and cause, as quickly as possible,” John requested. “Of course. iral, sit right here, and we’ll get started.” He sat in front of a computer, looking back at Jay, he said, “Are you an alien?” Jay smiled. “No, iral, just an archeologist from Las Vegas. Now, let’s go through the computer functions. It should answer some of your questions, quickly.”

John and Hernandez stood on the deck, looking out over the ocean. “As per your request, Captain, we are one mile away from your coordinates.” He was still a little pale from his experience. “Thank you, iral. Keep your fleet on high alert. I expect the Destroyers to attack.” “My fleet thinks they’re in training to find an enemy sub. We have set up a perimeter around the area.”

“Excellent, I will be in .” John went back to the ship, looking out over the water at the place he hadn’t ever wanted to go back. The memories were still vivid, and disturbing. He fought the fear back as he entered the ship, and made his way to the battle table. “We are in position, shall we try? I want all sensors trained on that power point. I want to know the nano-second anything changes. Draco, would you do the honors?” Draco reached into his jacket pocket and took out all the coins. He held them stacked in a flat palm. He eyed them for a second, and then tossed them in the middle of the table. They floated a few inches above and spun. The spinning lined up into a loose triangle, and suddenly they stopped at different intervals. The teardrop points all pointed in the same direction. “Athene-A, anything on sensors?” John anxiously asked. “Negative, no unusual activity.” “Really,” John said to himself more than to anyone else. “Hum, where do they point?” He waved a hand, and a topographical hologram came into view. He simulated a line that ran Northeast, all the way around the world. “That doesn’t help much,” Shelly commented. Jay starred for awhile in confusion. He studied it, leaning forward, one hand on the journal. He came to some epiphany, and opened the book. He flipped through it, matching up dissociated John’s travels to the red line. The only place that matched, was an obscure area in Romania, one hundred miles Southwest of Bucharest. “Looks like a hiking trip.” Jay looked up at John. “John, the mind bender showed us a wooden pyramid on top of a power point. Do you where it was?” John thought for less than a second, waved his hand, until a red dot appeared on the table where the hiking trip took place. “People, it looks like we have our next destination. Keep those sensors on full.”

An hour later, John and Hernandez stood on the deck, again.

“It seems our friends don’t want to come out and play,” Hernandez quipped, looking much more stable than he had been. “I guess we didn’t learn much. Should we send in some ordinance?” “No, but we did learn a great deal. The Destroyers are not ready for a full-on confrontation, yet. So, we still have time, relatively speaking. We must be on our way, thank you for all your help. Here’s your...laptop. It will help with all your questions, and keep you safe. Be careful who you trust. Abigail would be a good place to start.” “Abigail, humph. I’ll try. Stay in touch my alien friend.” “If you are my Cousin, what does that make you?” John smiled and walked toward the shuttle.

Chapter Twenty-Five: Full Circle “Our round-about way of getting here, should throw off any observers for a while,” Aidan said. “Since, Apollo discovered they were tracking us by the alteration in dimensional spectral changes in our cloaking field. I’ll leave the cloak on at all times.” “The medallions are pointing to that castle ruin over there,” Draco said, pointing it out on the map. “It looks familiar, but I haven’t been in this part of the world in...a very long time.” “Draco, you take lead on this one,” John ordered. “Let’s go find that tracker skull.” The invisible hover car left the invisible shuttle, as the oblong moon ed over the trees. They weaved through the woods as the windshield turned night into day, while they zipped around and over any obstacles. John set the craft down in an open patch near the ruin’s main entrance. The roadway was overgrown, but the horseshoe shaped driveway left enough room for the vehicle to be unnoticed. They filed out and began more scanning. The dilapidated castle, or commune, entrance had stones strewn around like children’s building blocks. Graffiti covered most of them. They cautiously moved into its inner workings. “This would make a great party location for Halloween,” Jay whispered, trying to break the tension. Xen looked around, and unexpectedly said, “Yes, it would.” “Anything ing?” John asked. “Surprisingly, nothing unusual,” Rhe-A spoke up. “That should be worrisome in itself.” “Maybe we caught another break, like back there at the battle fleet,” Jay said, sounding more like wishful thinking. “Alright, everyone stay alert. Draco, any specific direction?” John’s voice echoed through the darkness.

Draco had the coins in front of him. “That direction.” He pointed. “That entrance.” They made their way through a street with ruined buildings. Jay would’ve described the place as an abandoned town. They stopped in front of the remains of a Medieval Christian church, only three of the four walls stood. Roof debris and stone blocks littered the floor. Draco held out his hands, between them the medallions floated. They pointed to a wall to his right, and then he moved slowly in that direction. He only got a few yards, when the coins dropped to the floor at the same time, making clinking noises in the silence. “What the-” Draco said. He looked around for answers, but got none. He picked up the medallions and put them in a purple silk bag, with a draw string. He was putting them in an inside pocket, when the everyone gathered around. “What direction were they last pointing?” Jay asked. Draco pointed to the wall on the right. Night vision glasses formed over his eyes, and he began to look around. He got to the wall and surveyed it. Nothing. He began to back track, looking down at the floor. He scooted dirt aside with his foot. The Archeologist in him took over. Forming an idea of how these people thought, as opposed to what they did in the past. He kneeled down and lightly scooped away more dirt. “Help me move these timbers and stone.” Before he could grab one, they started floating away. “Show offs.” He brushed at the floor lightly, until he came to stone. The more he cleared, the more a design appeared. Soon, the shadow outline of a pyramid, with a circle inside of it. He brushed it off, and then blew the loose dirt away. Xen knelt beside him. “Is that what we’re looking for?” Xen asked, as he tried to help. “I think so. The marking is not that old, I mean, not as old as the building. See, these grooves were made by a machine tool. Unless, you guys were doing this sort of thing back in the dark ages.” They looked guiltily at each other. “Never mind,” Jay said, “It’s recent, archeologically speaking.” He finished cleaning out the outline in a slab stone three feet by five feet. He stood up and looked at the finished product. “Well, it’s not up, or to the left or right. Looks like we’re going down. Jay put a foot on a stone, it sank slightly, and then

another, it did the same. He then lifted the first foot and stepped on the same stone three quick times. The slab broke loose, and hinged upward until it was forty-five degrees. The others took pieces of timber and reinforced the slab. A stairwell led down into more darkness. Aidan started down the steps, and was stopped by Jay’s comment. “Okay, does anyone else think this is a trap?” “A valid deduction,” John said, as he started down. “Maybe you should go back to the ship and monitor the situation.” “No way, I’ve come this far. I want to finish.” “The male ego is alive and well,” Rhe-A commented on her way by. Following Aidan as he disappeared down the tunnel. John smirked. “Stay close.” The tunnel was large enough for two abreast. Aidan and Draco were up front followed by Xen and John, and then Jay and Rhe-A. Maya covered the rear. The stairs continued down. Most could see in the dark, but Jay and Aidan needed their suit goggles. “Anything on your sensors?” John’s voice echoed in tunnel. “Nothing,” Rhe-A responded. “Dead space.” Jay glanced at her. “Really?” She looked confused about what she had said. He was shaking his head as they came to the landing. The high ceiling tunnel made a sharp right. Draco’s familiarity with this type of architecture, led them around several traps. Others were already sprung with skeletal remains as a result. The tunnel came to a four-way intersection. Jay studied the walls. A triangle with a teardrop inside pointed straight ahead. They agreed to proceed further down the tunnel. More steps led them further down into the Earth. There didn’t seem to be any more traps, at this point. They reached another landing that continued straight.

“We’ve lost communication with the shuttle,” Rhe-A emotionlessly informed. “We should keep going,” Draco echoed in the tunnel. “Proceed,” John un-assuredly said. Another right turn abruptly stopped at a large door. John and Rhe-A moved to it. They concentrated, and the door unlatched. Draco studied for traps and found none, that were operational. It took some effort to get the door to open. A large square room awaited them with a pedestal in the center, the only thing in the room. Jay quickly moved to it, to the chagrin of John. The rest spread out throughout the room, waiting for an attack, or trap. Jay looked down on the pedestal. Nothing was there, but a purple piece of cloth that hung over the flat surface of the podium by a few inches. “We’re too late,” Jay sadly announced. “The tracker skull is gone. From the dust collection, it’s been quite a while.” John, and the others, made sure of no traps or ambush points, and then gathered around. John studied it. He bent down and looked at it eye level. “Look at this, the indentions are not of a crystal skull, but are round.” Draco pulled out his medallion pouch and took out a medallion. John took it and set it over the spot. It was the same size. “I would say we weren’t looking for the skull, but more medallions. There were three here.” “I guess this was a bust,” Jay said. “But I think we need to find more medallions somewhere else.” John sighed. “Alright, looks like we’ll have to continue the search elsewhere. Back to the ship.” Draco moved away from the group, and stared at the far wall. Maya moved forward to get a better look at what he was focused on. The others slowly began to notice and followed suit. An image started to form; the wispy movement of steam swirled around. It coalesced into a humanoid form at first, and then into the shape of a woman. Her hair was dark, skin pale. The red velvet dress, the young lady wore, was 17th century Europe, with a very low neckline. She floated near the wall with slight transparency.

“Great,” Jay said, “vampires, werewolves, minotaurs, of course we would have ghosts.” “Ghosts are somewhat relative,” John said, staring at the phantasm. She gave a beckoning smile, and backed through the wall, disappearing faster than she had arrived. “The image,” Draco explained, “was that of Gloria, my sister.” “My daughter, Gloria,” Maya said, under her breath. “She disappeared, just as you did Draco. Oh, she looks so refined.” “And, she has a medallion around her neck,” Draco said. “It looked as if she wanted us to follow her.” Xen piped up. They moved to the wall, carefully. Jay examined the stone structure. “Alright, everyone, stand back,” John said. “Rhe-A, and I, will blast it open.” “Hold on a second,” Jay said with a hand up. “No use bringing this place down on our heads.” He looked in recognition, and then pushed the two stones that were diagonal from each other at the same time. A stone door popped open. Jay turned, and smiled in triumph. “Show off,” Rhe-A said, as she pushed the door fully open. The tunnel was now only wide enough for single file. Aidan had to stoop a little as he led them through. Jay looked wary about going in. “Did I mention a trap, earlier, because I am now.” “We have to see this through, also. Stay here,” John’s voice echoed down the tunnel. Jay looked around at the creepy, empty room. “Uh, strength in numbers.” He followed. They didn’t get far before the stairs led them down, again. Brushing cob webs

aside, they eased further down. Aidan stepped into another large room with only one other door to their right. Creature comforts were spaced around. Carpet murals on the floor and walls. Couches, and chairs, all were from the 17th and 18th centuries. “Now, I ,” Draco started, as he walked around. “Gloria helped me through the dark times, after...your interference, Mother. I spent time here. This is what gave me the idea for my own lair back in Chichen Itza. Gloria, show yourself!” The large wooden side door slowly creaked open. The ghostly figure was now as solid as they were. The dark hair, pale face, woman, gracefully strolled out. Behind her was a dark cavernous cave. The hair stood up on the back of Jay’s neck. “John,” Rhe-A said, staring into space, “I’m getting that feeling again, Destroyers.” “I know. I feel them, too.” “Gloria,” Maya said, and moved to embrace her. Jay grabbed her arm to stop her. She turned, and gave him a killing look. “That’s not Gloria, Maya,” Jay sadly said. He saw the double vision of two beings overlapping upon each other. “It’s a Destroyer.” The creature focused on Jay, who, gracefully backed up. Maya realized the truth. “What have you done with Gloria?” Maya angrily asked, as she stepped forward. “Experiment one, complete. Experiment two, in process,” the voice sounded as mechanical as Pandor-A when the Inquisitors took over. “Set her free, Demon,” Maya said, as fangs and rage built up. “The experiment wishes to interact,” the hollow voice echoed. “No, the experiment wishes to rip your throat out. Release Gloria.”

“You are referencing the vessel I inhabit. That is not possible.” During the exchange, Draco, silently, and gracefully moved around behind the possessed woman. “Do you have a name, Destroyer?” John asked. “Another interaction, parameters are expanding. Primary focus is on subject who can differentiate between the dimensional veil.” “Jay,” John said, looking over at Jay, figuring out what the creature meant, “They want you. We need to get you out of here.” All, but Maya and Draco, circled around Jay. Rhe-A had a painful look on her face. “No, stay out of my head.” She dropped to her knees with both hands squeezing her head. “Stop it,” John said to the Gloria figure. “Don’t I know you?” John was trying to distract her. “We’ve met during your other experiments, haven’t we?” He drew her attention to him. “Yes, experiment one-one, one-five, one-nine, two-five, three-six-” “-And yet, I still don’t know your name.” It took a few seconds, but it realized it was being distracted. Her focus went back to Jay. “Introduction of too many variables. Closer examination warranted.” Rhe-A screamed. Jay put his hands on hers, and looked her in the eyes. “Rhe-A, you can fight this. Look at me.” She did, and calmed herself a little. “I don’t want to be a Titan again.” Her eyes glazed over, she stood up and grabbed Jay. Picking him up off the floor, she began to carry him toward the Gloria/Destroyer. The group tried to stop her, but mental powers pushed them all away. John saw her coming. He turned back to the Destroyer. “Experiment one-zerozero.” The entity looked confused. John raised up an arm and ran fingers across the computer sleeve. A force field formed around Gloria.

Rhe-A stopped, coming to her senses, she slowly set Jay down. John reached in and snatched the necklace with the three medallions. He tossed them to Draco. The creature blurred, briefly showing its true self. “We’ve been experimenting also. Now, what is your name?” She studied the field, putting a finger to it, and watched it disintegrate. “I would be careful. It’s a multi-dimensional rotating phasic disruption field. Some of Hades’ best work. You might him, but Pandor-A was the one who could decipher its intricacies.” Jay led Rhe-A away from the action, toward Draco. He was taking out his bag of medallions. “Jay,” Rhe-A shakily said, “I’m sorry. I’m not that strong.” “Bullshit, you are the strongest person I have ever met.” “I can still feel them...calling.” “Look at me.” Jay took her hands and gazed into beautiful overly blue eyes. “Concentrate on me. I will help you push them back, back through the door they came from.” Jay saw Rhe-A for who she was, her defenses were down. “You still feel guilty for what you did as a Titan, don’t you?” “I destroyed lives.” “It was not you, the Rhe-A I know would never willingly intentionally harm anyone, very annoying.” She smiled. “Stop punishing yourself. You have redeemed yourself a hundred times over. How many millions of people have you saved, huh, how many?” She listened. “I don’t know.” “That’s because you only count the ones you couldn’t save. That’s not fair to yourself. You maybe super human, but you’re still human. We have to take the good with the bad, and make the best of it.” He felt the Demons being pushed back. She gained momentum, and soon, the monsters were safely back behind a sealed door. “I can’t believe I’m taking advice from a chimp.”

Jay smiled, and let go. He saw Draco strangely looking at them. Jay realized the whole conversation was not said out loud. Draco shook his head, and then went back to floating the coins. They spun and twirled. One clicked into a position, and then another stopped, pointing in another direction. The creature in the cage didn’t seem to be concerned. Jay caught something out of the corner of his eye, as one by one, the medallions stopped, pointing in all directions. He tried to focus on what might be a disturbance, but it was more of a feeling. He shook it off, and glanced back at the coins. John kept asking the Destroyer questions, but she just stood there, waiting. There it is, Jay thought, if he didn’t look directly at it, he could see the disruption. The same kind that was in Greece when he rescued Shell. He slowly pulled out his weapon and set it. The medallions were almost done. He raised his weapon and aimed to the left this time, and fired the beam. This got everyone’s attention. He hit his target, and it lit up. The same oval eyed gray creature he had seen before. It slowly moved toward him. Aidan came up and drew his rifle, and ed in. It advanced closer, but it was now in distress. Gloria began to scream. The gray figure was next to Gloria when the force field went down. John, and the others, were hit with a wave of energy. Jay glanced at the coins, briefly seeing Draco grab one before the wave hit, throwing everyone to the floor. The energy wave was relatively weak, allowing Gloria to hold out a hand and suck up the medallions. Everyone was back on their feet in seconds. Maya attacked Gloria, with ferocity, fangs and claws. From Jay’s point of view, the battle was a blur of speed and violence. The others couldn’t assist, for fear of getting in the way. Jay saw it out of the corner of his eye, again, and began firing, missing at first, he dragged the beam left, scorching the wall. He then panned right, until he found his target. The others ed in. Jay angrily moved forward. “Abbadon, you’re done here, leave!” The creature’s glow from enemy fire, stopped, as if, disturbed by being recognized. It vanished. The faux Gloria was battered. It pushed Maya away, she then flew in for the kill. A bright flash of white light blasted Maya to the other side of the room. The Esuit had been overpowered, and she lay in a smoldering heap. Jay, Draco, and Rhe-A ran to her aid. Xen metamorphisized, and clawed himself up to the ceiling, and raced across. Aidan was firing his weapon as he came across the room. John moved in closer to reengage the force field. Without touching him, Gloria tossed him away, like garbage. Xen leaped from the ceiling and landed on

her. He bit down and clawed her at the same time, until she grabbed him by the scruff of the neck, and slammed him down on the floor. The impact splintered the stone floor. A yelp, and he lay still. She hiked the floor length dress up, and stepped over him. She angrily marched toward Jay. Aidan kept firing, but beam and projectiles were deflected. Rhe-A stood from examining Maya to meet the monster. John recovered, and was up, trying to reengage the field. He determined it couldn’t trap her again, but it could act as a barrier between it and his crew. A slight hum, and she stopped, sensing the barrier was up again. The Gloria creature focused on Rhe-A, just on the other side of the field. Rhe-A mentally fought back. The creature was losing ground, and was enraged. The room began to vibrate, small stones and dust fell from the ceiling. “We need to get out of here,” Jay said. “That bitch is going to bring this whole place down on us.” The vibration got worse. Rhe-A went on the offense, and tried to break through her defenses, she immediately realized this was a mistake. Rhe-A began to rise off the floor. Her head rolled back; eyes began to bleed. John threw everything he could at the beast, but it deflected everything. Jay was kneeling with Draco beside Maya. He took his pistol and started for the creature. Draco took his arm. “No, my friend. She will disintegrate you, or worse, capture you.” “I can’t just sit here. She’s killing everyone I care about.” “Then let me.” He took out his personal medallion and slipped the overly gaudy, intricately designed ring, off his finger, and ed it to Jay. “It has a data chip in it. Mother will know what to do with it. May I have your pistol?” Jay handed it over, numbly. Draco pressed a few buttons and stuck it into his jacket pocket. Maya’s badly burned hand reached up and took his collar. “No, Draco, you can’t win.” “I know, but I should be able to buy you some time.” Her raspy voice continued, “You don’t have to do this.”

“Yes, I do.” “Why?” “Atonement, or redemption, for what I did. I love you, Mother.” The quaking room was coming down in large stones. Draco took off so fast, Jay only saw a shadow. He could’ve sworn the man-controlled time and space as he collided with his possessed sister. He wrapped his arms around her, and continued to push her back. They reached the wooden door she had emerged from. It exploded into splinters as they burst out of the room, into the cavern. They rolled down broken stone steps and flipped over the edge into a deep crevice. The room was collapsing. The entryway was a rubble of stone and dirt. John telekinetically pulled Xen’s body close to the group. Rhe-A was released, and Jay caught her before she hit the floor. He dragged her over to the rest as well. She was sitting up, shaking her head. John was straining to keep the ceiling at bay. Xen had started to transformed back, after unconsciousness. He moaned and rolled over on his side, stretching and putting his bones back in the original places. A bright white light, followed by an explosion, came from the destroyed doorway to the cavern. A chain reaction had been started by the overloaded pistol deep underground. “I’m going to need some help,” John yelled over the noise. “Rhe-A, stand there.” He pointed to his right. “Xen, there.” He pointed to his left. “Now, give me all you have.” Rhe-A moved a few feet away from Jay. The room dropped boulders and dirt down. Xen weakly stood a few more feet away. The three formed a triangle, and began chanting. The rocks and debris piled up beside them. Maya was laying on her back with her mutilated hands up, chanting in sync. The Earth was held at bay. Jay saw it as being in a glass pyramid fish tank. The quaking subsided as the area was completely engulfed and pitch black. He could hear the group continue chanting. The invisible pyramid walls began to glow red hot as rock and dirt started to melt. The glowing slowed and started to cool into smooth solid rock walls.

The walls still had a slight glow to them when John dropped to his knees. Xen crumpled into a pile. Rhe-A was frozen, and was falling like a felled tree. Jay caught her again, and softly let her continue to the floor. Aidan looked after Xen, while John crawled over to Maya. Jay held Rhe-A in his arms. The suit goggles formed over his eyes so he could see after the red glow died away. Dried bloody tears stained her face. He found her weak pulse and sighed a breath of relief. Her eyes flicked open. The blood vessels around her blue irises were red and swollen. Rhe-A spoke with a cracking voice, “Did I protect you?” “Duh, of course you did. You know, with questions like that, I’m going to have to move you down to chimp status.” “At least I’ll be in good company.” Jay smiled. She closed her eyes and faded off into a healing sleep. The comm system crackled to life, “John,” Athene-A’s voice said, “we’re coming to get you. Hold on.” “Understood,” the relief in his voice was obvious. A few minutes later, a hole appeared on the far pyramid wall. Athene-A glided down to the floor, first, followed by Apollo. John was the closest to her, so she checked on him. She pointed to Maya, and Apollo moved to assist. He immediately started prepping her for transport. Athene-A then went and kneeled beside Jay, studying her handheld intently, a look of relief was all Jay needed. Xen was sitting cross-legged on the floor, concentrating. Shelly was preparing the med-chambers when patients started to arrive. She hissed at the damage Maya sustained, and for a brief moment, felt sorry for her. They closed the tube and put her away for healing. Jay was beat up, but the nanites were working on him. Aidan and Xen, both, refused the chamber. After a few injections, Rhe-A was up and alert. She made her way to the battle table with Jay and Aidan in tow. Athene-A fawned over John. He didn’t seem to mind. Once she was satisfied, they all made their way to the table.

Shelly looked around. “Where’s Draco?” She innocently asked. “He sacrificed himself to save us,” Jay said. “Oh,” she responded with tears welling up in her eyes. “Did we find the tracker skull?” Athene-A inquired. “No,” John solemnly answered. “We were led to more medallions to get a greater range.” “Did you retrieve them?” “No, and we lost the others, too.” A horrified look came over her, and Shelly’s, faces. “So, all of the sacrifices...” “Were in vain.” Athene-A muttered. Jay reached into a pocket. “We still have one. Draco gave it to me just before...he said Maya would know what to do with it.” He dropped it on the table. The teardrop side showed. He studied it, as if it reminded him of something. “Wait, you said these suits record everything, right?” “Well, most things, when not interfered with, why?” John answered. “Can you take mine back, just before the attack?” John waved a hand around, several times. “I’ve coordinated all the suits in the room.” A perfect 3-D image formed above the table. It showed Maya with fangs and claws out frozen in her attack. “Move it back a little, and from my point of view,” Jay said, staring intently at the scene. John did so. It showed Draco’s face. “Okay, move it forward slowly.” The scene showed Jay looking back and forth, from the Destroyer to a heat bubble, and then back to Draco. A glance at the coins, and back to the Monsters, and then back to the coins, until the creature sucks the coins up. “Wait, uh, stop. Move it back slowly.” John did so, again. It was but a glance, but it was enough. “There,

I looked at the medallions. Can you change the angle and clarify?” The scene rotated, and there it was, all the medallions were lined up. “Let’s line them up on the world map.” John began manipulating the computer. His full concentration on where the coins pointed, in relation to everything around them. “Got it.” A 3-D world popped up. “Here’s the direction.” The thin red line started at their point, and drew itself around the planet. Jay took over and zoomed in. He carefully traced the area as it went South East of their position. He didn’t get far before he said, “That son-of-gun.” “What?” Shelly anxiously asked. “What do you see?” “I recognize the coordinates. The line crosses paths with the dig site in Greece. Gramps, you wily fox. He took us in a circle to throw off the Destroyers, or anyone else, for that matter.” Xen leaned forward and asked, “Do you think the skull is there, or just more medallions?” “I believe we’ve come full circle. I’m willing to bet the skull in there. I think it’s in the landslide area, where I felt a sensation, or a pull of something.” Aidan snorted. “We could also assume that the Destroyers know, also.” “Right, Aidan, set a course for Chrysalis. Send orders to secure the dig site, I don’t want to walk into another trap. We’re going in with back up this time.” The group scrambled about in preparation for the final push.

“How much longer, Aidan?” John asked from the battle table. “Our flight plan will take us twenty-three point three minutes out of the way,” he said, from the flight deck. “Understood, bring us in quietly.”

“John, I have General Masters waiting to speak with you,” Apollo said, from across the table. “Put her through.” A pause. “General, congratulations on the promotion,” John said to the 3-D image above the table. “It may be a curse. I’ll let you know. I’ve spoken to the President. It wasn’t easy, but I made the case, but he wants proof of your existence before he’ll commit.” “Understandable, and if I survive this next encounter, I would be happy to comply.” “I knew it had to be you. We are getting reports from all over the Mediterranean. Some Greek military defections, also some defections from bordering countries. The satellites are picking up strange anomalies. Science department is working on that.” “We feel we are the verge of a very important discovery in our fight against the Destroyers. They will move to stop us. We’ve spotted a detachment of Hagha’Kyum converging on our intended location.” “My sources are now telling me, there is heavy movement from neighboring countries. I’ll send you what I can, but it won’t be much, because of all the international treaties. I’ll try to direct the Greek forces to assist you. Cover story; your anti-terrorist group trying to prevent a major attack.” “Any help would be appreciated, General.” “We need something to distinguish you as the good guys. Color, maybe?” “Sky blue,” Jay said from the side. The image turned in his direction. “Jay, you look worse for wear.” His face was still smudged from their last Destroyer encounter. Dried blood and dirt on his E-suit made him look beaten. “I’m fine, you should see the other guy.” She smiled. “How’s Shell?”

“I’m fine Mother.” The image now turned to her. A sigh of relief came over her Mother’s face. “John,” she said, looking at her daughter. “Do not take her into combat, she has no training.” “Understood, I will be dropping her, Jay, and my wounded off at Chrysalis before we make .” “Thank you. Now, I have to make some strange calls.” The image winked out. John looked down at the board. Information was coming in quickly as he sorted it out, and spoke, “Pandor-A, how’s the TSD retrieval coming?” Only her voice came through the comm. “I am retrieving as many as the TSD will allow. You were not specific on which parameters in which to choose who comes out.” “Any, and all the ones who volunteered for this kind of situation, are welcome on this one.” “Understood.” “Is Dionysus, or Hephaestus, available?” “Affirmative, both.” “Good, put them in charge of their own groups, and coordinate from Chrysalis.” “Do you think it wise to have so much top leadership in one place?” “We are committed.” “As you wish.” “Do our Inquisitor friends have any advice?” “They are uncharacteristically quiet.” “Of course. We’ll be there soon.” He, and Athene-A, were moving symbols around the table. Xen was talking to his comm unit. Apollo was getting equipment ready, Shelly looked confused.

“Gramps, I’m going with you,” Jay said, over the organized chaos. He, and Athene-A, stopped. “Jay, your job is done,” John sympathetically said. “I’ve risked your life too many times, already. No.” Jay pleaded his case. “I can still be useful. It may take precious time to actually locate the skull, more lives will be lost. You know I can feel it.” “Jay,” his Grandmother responded, “you have proven yourself many times over. You have nothing left to prove to us.” “I can finish this quickly, saving lives. That’s what matters.” “I don’t know, Jay. You’ve done more for us than we could’ve ever asked.” John faltered. He then looked back at the table. “The dig site hasn’t been taken, yet. If we get their first, we could easily defend it, until the skull is recovered, and then once we have it, we can retreat to a safe distance.” “If Jay goes, I’ll protect him,” Rhe-A said from behind them. Jay turned to see a fully healed Rhe-A, wearing a spotless light blue E-suit. “Rhe-A, I’m going to need my medical personnel ready to mobilize.” “You have plenty of medical personnel. I trained most of them.” John looked at Athene-A for guidance, she relented. John sighed. “Alright, stay close. Rhe-A, stay closer.” He looked at the table. “Here’s the revised plan.”

Chapter Twenty-Six: Payback Jay was cleaned up, and re-equipped. Maya’s tube was moved to the medical section on Chrysalis. Shelly, dodged, and squeaked as people scrambled about, backing her up against a smooth wall. New equipment and armament was being hustled onto the shuttle. Athene-A rushed to the shuttle, Septor, and accompanied Hephaestus to the battle lines. “We need to dust off,” John said, fully equipped for combat. His light blue E-suit was loaded down with both, offensive and defensive items. Pandor-A strolled through the chaos with her hands behind her back, missing everyone that ran by her, like she knew where they would be at any particular moment in time. John took notice as she came up near him. “Update,” he said to her, while he made last minute arrangements. “Our defense force is nearing the temple dig site.” Pandor-A hesitated. “Ares called out of the TSD. He wishes to help. Some sense of redemption. The Council agreed. You, and the other Councilor’s votes would not have mattered.” Jay stood there, watching John, his face looked angry at first, and then deep thought, as if ing something he wanted to forget. “Good choice, he’s one of our best strategic minds for combat. You might want to wait as long as possible to tell Athene-A.” He squared away some last bit of equipment, as if the situation didn’t bother him, but Jay knew different. He then said, “Inform them we’ll be there soon.” He was going to have to ask about that, if he survived, Jay thought to himself. Shelly spotted Jay, and ran to him. She hugged him tightly. “Be careful, you fool. I’ll be waiting.” Jay hugged her back. Rhe-A glanced over long enough for Shelly to notice, then she kissed him. Jay pulled away, and said, “Sit tight. We’ll be back soon.” John stopped by them. “We need to go, Jay. We have two defensive teams in position, and one clearing the debris from the dig site. There are an unknown number of assailants converging on their position.”

“How do we not know who, or what they have to throw against us.” “They are using their own scattering field to mask their approach, we can counter some of it, but right now, best guess. Let’s go.”

The shuttle skimmed over the tree tops, and through the valley. Troops sat nervously in seats and slings, studying the landscape, coordinating plans, and some even prayed. Drof flew Andromeda, while Xen targeted the enemy, until a borage of fire, and disruption bombs came their way. Comm chatter revealed that their defensive units at the temple were surrounded, and were slowly being forced back to the dig site. The scratchy video, and spotty intelligence reports, showed Jay that the enemy was coming out of nowhere. Creatures, and people, from both Earth and Terrahanian history, emerged. Monsters from the time of Olympus, people from ancient Samaria, Egypt, Mongols, Romans, Knights in armor, Aztecs, Nazis, and many others to numerous to name. Jay couldn’t believe what he was seeing. John didn’t look surprised, and continued to coordinate the battle. “Jay, we’re not going to be able to get the shuttle in, but I can have a hole punched in the lines enough for Samm to get through. We get in, get the skull, and get out. Simple. Call a retreat, and everyone goes home. I’m calculating that they still don’t want a full-on confrontation.” “I’ll prep Samm.” He, and Rhe-A, raced for the vehicle. The shuttle shook from an impact. He sat in the driver’s seat and began manipulating the controls. Rhe-A got in, as well as Aidan, and then John. John pulled up a tactical screen and transferred all his information to it. “The temple defense is being battered. Ares is putting up a good fight. Dionysus is leading the outside perimeter assault team with a herd of Pegasi flying in more troops. They should be able to break through the lines to supply reinforcements. Athene-A and Hephaestus are flying cover for them.” “You’re clear,” Drof said over the comm. “Launching,” Jay responded, while getting awkward thumbs up from the troops sitting on each side of the shuttle bay.

The bay door opened, and the vehicle accelerated backward further above the trees than Jay would’ve liked. The sudden violence, once out of the shuttle, caught him a little off guard. He worked the controls and missed several trees that took impact damage from incoming fire. He jetted just above the ground, as explosions lit the area. “I will clear you a path,” Drof said in Jay’s ear. “Understood, following your lead, Andromeda.” Samm shrank, squeezing its occupants closer together. It’s molecules compacting to its most dense form, but maintaining the shape of the Mercedes. It darted up and down, and side to side, dodging trees and explosions. Andromeda sank down and pulled in front and just overhead, blasting trees and a kaleidoscope of troops out of the way. Rhe-A worked the repulser beam as fast as it would fire. She threw, what troops Andromeda missed, out of their path. They would hit the ground and roll to a stop, and then get back up and attack, too late to catch the vehicle. “You know,” Jay said over the explosions and evasive maneuvering, “They are fanatically aggressive, and controlled. You will have to kill at some point.” “I am aware,” she said, without taking her eyes off her targets. They were getting close, when a giant Cyclops raised himself above the tree tops and swung a massive club at the shuttle. Drof and Hephaestus barely reacted in time to lash out with beams and rockets and point-blank range. The beam severed the giant’s club arm, but not before a glancing blow struck the shuttle. Smoke billowed from its port side, and it wobbled away as the giant started falling backward. Jay accelerated between the one-eyed monster’s legs, clearing the distance just as it shook the Earth when his body impacted the ground. The shuttle veered back in front of the car and skimmed the trees, severing many of them, and enemy as it hit the ground, plowing its way to a stop. “Drof,” John said over the comm, “are you alright?” The comm crackled as Jay slowed the vehicle, while coming upon the wreckage. “We are alive, do not stop. The path is open. May the Great Creator be with you.” The comm was shut off.

“You heard, Jay. Proceed to the temple, best possible speed.” He hit the enemy horde hard and fast. Ancient Egyptian warriors flipped over the top, and under the vehicle, as they shot past them. The cloak was of no use, so its power was transferred to the shielding. The vehicle powered up and down a hillside and took a pounding, while busting through the enemy line. A light group of enemy soldiers flew out of the path of the car, as they crashed their way into an open area. Jay spotted the trenches, he had helped dig, leading to the temple. “Jay,” John said excitedly, “we’re clear targets here in the open. We need to exit, now!” “Understood, just a little longer.” The vehicle came to a grinding halt next to a trench. Everyone piled out and into the ditch, except Jay. He was programming Samm to return to base. He leaped out, and into trench, stooping over as he ran. The car whipped around, and only got a few yards before it was hit by a missile, and erupted into a small mushroom cloud of destruction. Forcing them to drop for cover, as debris and pulverized gravel blasted all around them. “Aw, those bastards. I loved that car,” Jay said, over the noise and settling dust. After getting up and moving further down the trench, they met up with Ares, his natural height made him kneel to avoid being decapitated. “Come,” Ares said, “We’ve got the temple mostly clear of debris. He led them single file down the trench, holding a very long, and large spear, at the ready. The explosions rocked the area, spraying hot metal and dirt over the top of them. Distant trees exploded, leaving splintered wood, stumps smoldering, and strewn about. Smoke filled the air around them. John took the lead from Ares as if competing, when suddenly, the trench floor heaved upward, sending a soldier up out of the hole. Jay recognized the soldier as a World War II Russian infantry man. He charged with rifle and bayonet. Jay stepped to John’s right, and leveled his weapon on the advancing killer. John bumped his arm, and the shot went wild. John flicked a hand, and the soldier flew out the trench, landing thirty yards away. “Your pacifism is getting annoying,” Jay said, over the noise of battle. An explosion threw dirt on them. They started running, again. “You know you can’t

fight a war without killing, right?” “I am aware, but I want to keep my convictions intact as long as possible.” “Good luck.” They huddled at a corner of the trench, where it ended just thirty yards from the stairs that led down to the ancient room. The rock slide boulders had been piled around the entrance to add to their defense. Small gaps in the rock mounds was left for an entrance, or an exit, as not to expose oneself very easily. The defenders used the stones for cover, while covering no-man’s land. “Alright, we’re going across, one at a time, smaller targets,” John commanded over the noise of battle. Aidan held up an energy shield, taking light hits as his mass scurried across. Ares zipped across, taking out several advancing soldiers without incident. “I will go with Jay,” Rhe-A said, as a command, and not a request. “Very well,” John responded, without looking at Jay. “You know, I’m right here,” Jay commented. “Go! Go!” Jay, with Rhe-A, gave a battle cry as they launched out of the hole. Jay’s personal energy shield activated, while Rhe-A ran next to him. An explosion detonated near them, sending them both airborne toward the rock barrier. Jay was awake, but couldn’t hear as the world rolled around. He could’ve sworn he saw a Zulu warrior spear fly overhead. Rhe-A was dragging him to the barrier, all the while, deflecting bullets, arrows, and RPG rounds. Next thing he knew, John had grabbed his other arm, and they all three dove into the rock compound. Jay got up on his knees and waved Rhe-A’s motherly attention away. He got up and staggered. He begrudgingly accepted her help down the stone steps, while John helped the Detachment defend the temple doorway defense area. Xen ed in to assist the group. Once the assault was repelled, John, Ares, and Xen came down the temple stone steps. Rhe-A sat Jay down, and then leaned him against a wall at the foot of the steps. She had her handheld out, he continued to wave her off. John check on Jay’s

condition, and once he was satisfied, he was okay, he turned to Ares for an update. The mountain of a man ed a round concave hoplon shield with a black teardrop painted against bright orange sun rays behind it. He leaned on a huge spear that double as a beam weapon. Jay recognized the Corinthian style helmet with two eye slits and separated down the nose. The length of the cheek protectors gave him an ominous appearance. Its bronze color was accentuated by the white Pegasus horsehair crest on top going from front to back. A red cloak covered his cuirass that protected his back, but only came down over his chest on the front, exposing his chiseled mid-drift, as if daring anyone to get close enough to skewer him. His bronze colored greaves protected him from the knees down. Jay didn’t know what his pteruges was made out of, but the kilt style exposed large muscular thighs. If Jay were to go back in time, this is what a Spartan warrior would look like. The moment was tense, as one looked down at the other, while the other stared up. Jay noticed the mental confrontation, and by the look on their faces, were going to put their differences aside, both knowing what was at stake. Ares relented first. “I didn’t have time to read all the reports on the current situation, but I’m told, one of the tracker skulls is in here somewhere.” “It is a long story, but yes, you are correct. We must hold this position until we find it,” John stressed. “Why have you brought a weak Cousin to a war?” John let the insult slide. “It seems our Cousins are developing a sense for agoam crystals. He’s the reason we know it’s here.” Ares looked over at Jay, ignoring the dust that trickled down from the latest explosion. Jay was immediately intimidated by him. “I hope you’re right.” “I am.” Ares saw the conviction in John’s eyes, and said, “Then I shall endeavor to protect him as long as I have life.” “Thank you, Ares. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.” Aidan held out a massive hand and stood Jay up. He looked around to see a

dozen people moving rock from the partially buried temple up the steps, and outside to shore up the barrier entrance. Once there, they would either use it to barricade or launch them at adversaries that had gotten too close. A close explosion blew bits of rock down the step, causing them to raise their hands to protect their faces. Ares dusted himself off. “They obviously think something is here. They haven’t targeted the temple itself for fear of its destruction. I can use that to our advantage. Inform me when you have it.” Ares bounded up the steps and into the mayhem. John thought he saw a smile as he left. “Wow, he’s intense,” Jay said, walking up to John, while dusting himself off. “Yes, he can be quite single minded when it comes to fighting. Now, let’s get that skull and get out of here.” Jay walked around the large room, listening to the fight outside. The ground shook from impact tremors, causing dirt to sift down from the ceiling in streams reflecting different colors from the dying sunlight. Jay took out Draco’s medallion, and let it hover. He was hoping it would narrow down the location of the skull. It spun, and quickly stopped, pointing at the far wall, away from the entrance. Jay directed Atlanteans, Minotaurs, and a couple of Cyclops to a rubble filled spot. They quickly excavated it to reveal another blocked ageway. It only took a minute to move a ton of rock. Jay climbed over a pile of rocks, and moved to the back of the age way. He stood next to a smooth stone wall examining it with his hands. His night vision goggles formed over his eyes as he studied the symbols on the wall. He pushed a few wavy symbols, and then the eye. The wall dropped down, there it sat on a stack of flat rocks, the tracker skull. It was solid milky white, and polished so fine, Jay could just blow the dust off of it. He kneeled down, reached out into the darkness, and took it with both hands. He held it to his face and stared into the eye sockets. The ringing in his ears stopped. He felt good. He hadn’t felt this good since college. “Jay!” came Rhe-A’s voice in his head, “do you have it?” “Yes.” “Good, we can’t hold this position much longer.”

Jay stood up, and looked past the stack of stones into a long dark tunnel. A flash of light, and then thunder, dropped dirt from the ceiling. The commotion drew Jay’s attention away from the tunnel, and he scurried back over the rubble to emerge back into the large room. There, he could tell the Destroyers and their minions were trying not to destroy the facility, as to take the prize from the holder. But what they lacked in technology, they made up for in numbers. Bodies, and creatures piled up outside the fortified entrance. Jay came out from the half-filled hallway and raced up the steps into the large makeshift open-air bunker. He spotted John giving orders to soldiers, while fighting off the incoming threats. “Good, you have it,” he said, as Jay approached. “We are pinned in. Dionysus and his detachment are trying to break their lines, so we can escape.” “That sounds good, right?” “Yes, but not good enough. The Greeks have quelled their uprising in their military ranks. They think this skirmish is the cause of a rebellion. They are sending in their Air Force to level the area.” “Great, kill everyone, sort it out later. It’s a Cousin trait.” Rhe-A was attending the wounded and having them moved underground. The ground shook, bringing down a few stones and gravel. Fiery objects bounced around the makeshift compound, allowing some Atlanteans to bat them back as if using a tennis racket. Jay caught a glimpse of Ares keeping the enemy at bay by quickly moving through their ranks, annihilating anything that got in his path. His destructive force was unbelievable. He made Maya look slow and old. Jay wasn’t sure, but in the dust and smoke, he thought he saw a woman from his memories, or someone else’s memories, Gai-A swatted away enemy soldiers as they attacked Ares. Ares gave her an appreciative look, and then went back to his destruction. “Jay,” John said loudly, to get over the turmoil and broke Jay’s concentration, “get back downstairs until we’re ready to evacuate.” An onrush of assailants charged toward them, yelling and shooting whatever weapon they had. “Everyone,” John ordered, “fall back to the entrance, we’ll make our stand there.” They strategically retreated. John ran down the steps to find an area where the communications worked. The

floor exploded upward in spots, sending defenders to the floor. Out of the exploded holes, jumped a dozen Persians, American Civil War soldiers, and Zulu warriors. Most were cut down, and the rest were levitated just above the ground, and easily dispatched. Jay came to the conclusion that this is what the Destroyers did with the people they abducted over the course of time. “I need to get the wounded out of here,” Rhe-A said, running up to Jay and John. We can’t hold this area any longer, John.” “I know. Athene-A’s team has been stalled. We’ll have to hold a little longer.” “It’s too late,” Professor Snodgrass said, standing next to one of the holes in the floor. Everyone not defending the entrance, trained their weapons on him.

“Andromeda is down,” Athene-A told Dionysus over the comm. “Understood.” She could hear desperate fighting in the background. “Apollo’s detachment is closer.” “I see the smoke from the wreckage,” Apollo butted in on the comm. “Give us cover, while we get there.” “On our way,” Athene-A responded. The battleground was messy as they tried to subdue the infected. It was difficult, and not very successful. Apollo’s detachment advanced through a loosely wooded area to see Hephaestus and his crew fighting off another attack. He spotted Drof working on the side of Andromeda. Septor, dove in and cleared the area of hostiles. Apollo moved in to shore up Their defenses. Apollo faced Hephaestus’s blood-spattered bull face. “You called for takeout? As Jay would say.” “It’s good to see you, Apollo. Drof says he will have the shuttle capable of flight in another fifteen minutes.”

“He had better hurry. The Greek Air Force is on their way to put an end to everything here.” “Well, let’s not let it end, here.” A wave of ancient Persian soldiers came at them. Out of breath, and exhausted from the fight, Hephaestus said, “Drof, are you ready?” Jets screamed overhead. “We are out of time.” Drof hopped down beside him. “Then let’s get going.” His dark face, smiled. “Athene-A has called a retreat,” Hephaestus said, waving people into the shuttle. “So, does that mean we were successful?” “I don’t know. Apollo has already started evacuating. We should do the same.” “This little experiment is being terminated.” The smug little fat man lifted one hand, and everyone in the room was levitated several feet off the floor, sending them backward and pinned against the stone wall nearest to each one of them. Jay, and Rhe-A, were the only ones that were untouched. The explosions and gunfire ceased outside the ruin. John fought with every fiber of his being to break free, he felt the weak binding as he mentally struggled against its invisible force. It wouldn’t hold for long. John, just hoped they would still be alive when the break came. “Now, Jay Rodgers, hand over the artifact,” the pretentious Professor demanded, holding out the other hand. “Professor Snodgrass, or whatever you are, release them,” Jay pleaded. “This place is about to be bombarded. No one will get the skull, and we will all die.” “You’ve always been a stubborn student, always trying to advance farther than your natural abilities. Now, one last time, hand over the artifact.” “I can’t do that.” “How did I know you were going to say that. Rhe-A, my Dear, would you take the artifact from him?”

Jay took her arm. She had that faraway look in her eyes, again. “Rhe-A! You fought them off before, do it again.” She hesitated, looked at Jay with recognizing eyes, and said, “I can’t. They are too powerful.” “They?” He quietly said, “Abbadon must be here, also.” He glanced around. There, the heat wave signature, just behind, and to the left of Snodgrass. Rhe-A reached for the skull. When she touched it, Jay saw her thoughts. She was in a dark room, fear, anxiety, remorse, and guilt, saturated every corner. Jay still stood next to her, he yelled her name, but there was no sound. The only light in the room was the dim glow from the tracker skull. She was frozen, with her hands on the skull. Jay put his hand on hers. Sound returned, she turned to him as if seeing him for the first time. She smiled a smile he had never seen before. Holding up an empty hand, she began chanting an old Atlantean poem. A bright line formed in the distance; the line drew a rectangle. It cracked open like a door, and let a bright white light in. A swirl of nonexistent wind flared up like a tornado, grabbing the darkness and flushing it out of the opening. The light door slammed shut, calmness and brightness ruled again. Jay stared into her deep blue eyes, and put a hand on her cheek. He had finally felt the overpowering love she had for him, and his for her. The room fell away in pieces, leaving them floating in warm, bright sunlight. There was an odd sound, and her eyes got wide. Blood trickled out of the corner of her mouth; she couldn’t speak. Her limp body fell away, Jay reached for her, but she was gone. Jay found himself back in the ruins. Rhe-A was falling, he wrapped a free arm around her and gently laid her down. He blinked back his shock when he saw a large chunk of her abdomen missing. It looked like a shark had taken a bit out of her. A crescent moon shaped wound from her chest to her hip, almost cutting her in half. “I’m sorry, Jay,” she whispered. He set the skull on her chest between them and took her face in both his hands. “It’s okay, we’re going to get you fixed up, just hold on, help’s coming.” The horror on John’s face was unmistakable. Rage boiled, as he used that to fight harder against the invisible force. He began to sink slightly to the floor. Rhe-A’s eyes fixed on the ceiling, as Jay’s tears rolled off of his face onto hers.

“Noo!” He yelled at the ceiling. His emotions exploded. The skull glowed dimly, as he stood up and faced the murderer. He still had his handout, holding people in place. But the other, Jay spotted, had the Gauntlet of Zeus on it. Its power was legendary. Jay froze. “Mr. Rodgers, get the artifact, and come with me.” “Why would I help you, get it yourself.” “Because, if you don’t, I will eliminate your comrades.” He move his arm and a power surge burst forth. A Cyclops soldier exploded against the wall, leaving a blood trail down the wall. He fired at a minotaur next to him, with the same results. “Stop!” Jay’s head pounded with anger. He was so furious; he could barely contain himself. He wanted to strike out at the one thing causing him so much pain. He spun around to hear a familiar slurping noise. Rhe-A’s body was healing at a faster rate than a vampire. The backbone had formed, and internal organs were forming, and repairing. He felt the pull of the skull. The healing influence was a small radius, he needed to stall a little longer. He turned back to Snodgrass. Explosions began in the distance and sounded as if getting closer. Athene-A must be making progress. “Why do you need me to get the skull? Why do you need me to carry it for you? Does it harm you, wait, no, it destabilizes your existence in this dimension.” The look on the Professor’s face told Jay he had hit home. The strain of keeping everyone captive was beginning to show. “That’s quite enough, Mr. Rodgers. I am going to kill John if you do not bring me that artifact, now!” “Alright, alright, relax,” Jay said, raising is hands in surrender. He slowly went to Rhe-A and took the skull from her chest. She was breathing on her own, and skin was forming over the muscle tissue. He sighed in relief, knowing she would be able to heal herself from this point. He stood up quickly and started for Snodgrass. A war cry the likes Jay had never heard, came from the top of the temple stairs. Ares was in mid flight from the top of the stairs coming down on Snodgrass. His spear beam weapon firing rapidly until he was almost on top of him. The Professor raised his arm in protection, and was only slightly driven back. The gauntlet absorbed the energy and built up a charge, just before impact, he fired it

point blank at Ares. The exploding impact sent Jay back a few steps. The power collided with a shield, launching Ares back against the stone steps. The constant power blast pushed the shield slowly against Ares, it was crushing him. The stone began to give as blood oozed out of his eyes and mouth. The captive group slipped closer the floor. Jay immediately felt the power, it sizzled within him, like a fire brand. He was tired of seeing the people he cared for hurt by this...thing. His pent-up energy was going to escape, all he had to do was figure out how to direct it. “Mr. Rodgers,” the Professor said, showing uncertainty. The others slipped even closer to the floor. “I will kill the rest of your family and friends. Shut the skull down, and come with me.” The threat to his family and friends reignited his rage. He held the skull in both hands along its cheek and temples, with the hollow eyes pointing at the Professor. A bright white beam of light struck out, and hit the Professor. He managed to disengage the gauntlet from Ares just before the impact. The force drove Snodgrass back several feet, allowing Ares to fall to the floor. The Professor was shielding himself, but was clearly losing. He yelled in anger, or pain, Jay couldn’t tell, but could have cared less. The gauntlet was overloading and smoking, so he flicked his arm, and the glove fell smoldering to the floor. The Professor howled as the beam steadily pushed him back against a wall. The captives dropped to the floor, on their knees, exhausted from their imprisonment. Jay saw the blur move away from the Professor, and thought, time for my own experiment. Jay changed targets and swept the beam across the room. “Abbadon, it’s payback time,” he yelled, as the beam coming out of the skull’s eyes hit its mark. The light in the ruin got as bright as the beam impact. The bright force mingled with the black force, expanding, and continued to expand. The Destroyer’s image switched back and forth from the gray creature to Aztek-Alon’s features. Jay started to feel queasy, as if his life force were being drained out of him. When he reached his end, Abbadon let out a loud growl, and the darkness faded away. Jay, and the Professor, were on their hands and knees, across from each other, panting. Snodgrass looked up and coughed. His clothes smoldered with burns and steam. He looked around to see his former prisoners moving in on him. He staggered as he got up, but he was faking the extent of his injuries. He

leaped forward, head first into the hole he had come from. The group, including John, converged on the empty tunnel. John looked up, determining pursuit was futile. “Everybody, grab the wounded, we need to get out of here.” No sooner than he said it, the sound of jet aircraft rumbled overhead. “Their lining up for a bomb run. We are too weak to hold off that kind of blast.” Jay shook off the dizziness and sat back on his haunches. He looked down to see the skull on the floor, looking at him. It was now cold and lifeless. He felt a warm hand on his shoulder. Rhe-A stood beside him. Her hair disheveled, and her jump suit was missing from just below her chest, to below her navel. The tracker skull properties had hyper accelerated the nanites, and her natural healing ability. “Nice look,” Jay commented. “It’s the latest,” her repertoire caused Jay to laugh-cough, while she helped him up. He took the skull as he steadied himself. “I believe this belongs to you,” he said, holding out the artifact. “Keep it, you’ve earned it.” Jay saw John kneeling over Ares. His crushed flesh was piled against the steps. Rhe-A led Jay over to them and kneeled beside John. Jay put the skull on Ares. “I think its power has been exhausted. There is so much damage.” Rhe-A dropped a tear on the floor. “John,” came Athene-A’s voice over their comms, “they’re lining up for a final run at your position. Shall I incapacitate their machines?” “No, they are fragile, and you may kill some of them. Do not expose yourself any more that you have to.” “I have to do something soon,” her near panicked voice echoed. “Gramps,” Jay’s voice echoed back, “there’s a tunnel behind where the skull was

hidden. A back door. It might be safer.” “Jay, my boy, you never cease to amaze me.” A deep breath came from Ares. He rolled onto his side and spit out coughed up blood. “Rhe-A see what you can do for him. The rest of you help me. He led everyone over to the rubble covering half the tunnel. A stone storm erupted, as the shaft was quickly cleared. The tunnel was wide enough for two abreast, except for the Cyclops. The healthy helped the wounded down the tunnel. Glowing light from individuals lit the tunnel as they went. RheA was ahead, helping a Cyclops carry Ares, as Jay and John brought up the rear. “They’re coming,” John said, looking back. “The back blast will overtake us. The tunnel will act as guide for the explosions.” “Not if we put something between us, and it.” Jay took out his pistol, and fired down the tunnel, caving it in. The light winked out, and the dust was thick. “A few more of those should do it.” They barely got one more cave in before the ground rumbled and portions of the rest of the tunnel caved in. The two hustled over rock piles, and quickly met up with the others. “John, do you copy,” Athene-A’s voice could be heard echoing over everyone’s comm. “Affirmative, we are in a maintenance shaft, moving North West. We have wounded, need an evac.” “Oh, thank the Great Creator. You stopped moving and I thought the worst. The bombing has stopped, everyone, and everything, has retreated. The whole area is ablaze. I’ll use Septor to make an opening a few hundred yards from your current position.” “Understood, on our way.”

Rhe-A took Jay by the waist and floated up out of the hole in the Earth. Jay

noticed the smell of smoke as he gazed across a scared landscape. They lightly touched down in the hold of the shuttle, where Athene-A had her arms around John’s neck. She spied Jay as Rhe-A let go of him. She raced to hug him. She let go to wipe away a tear. Reaching out to take Rhe-A’s arm, she said, “Good to see you well, old friend. I can’t wait to read the reports.” “They will prove to be-interesting,” Rhe-A replied, and then put her hand on top of Athene-A’s. “I believe this is yours,” Jay said, holding out the skull to his Grandmother. Athene-A took it and held it up to look it in the face. “I hope it was worth it. Come, we have to assess the damage.” She turned, and then turned back to RheA. “Nice outfit.” She turned back, smiling, and the two followed her, weaving through the crowd being treated as they went to the battle table. There, John, Aidan, and Rhe-A, were checking out the overall casualties and damage. Athene-A placed the skull on the table. A noticeable, and much needed, power surge brightened the whole area. “Our forces are all retreating back to Chrysalis. The Greek Air Force has laid waste to the whole area,” Athene-A reported. “Just great, insult to injury. The greatest archeological find in my era is now a pile of dust and ash.” “Don’t worry JJ, there will be others,” Athene-A said, patting his dusty back.

The shuttle powered down. The bay door opened, and the wounded were carried off. Ares was still unconscious, but healing without the skull as he was moved quickly to the infirmary. The hangar was alive with activity, while the crew exited, trying to stay out of the way. Shelly ran through the crowd, and leaped into Jay’s arms. “I’m so glad you’re okay. I was so worried when we lost . You are okay, right?” Jay pulled away, as Rhe-A gave him a quizzical look. Shelly looked her up and

down. “Nice wardrobe,” she commented on her very exposed mid-drift. Rhe-A did what Jay usually did, and rolled her eyes. “If you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.” She walked away, grabbing a handheld from a technician and began to diagnose the wounded near her. Jay wondered away from Shelly, and made his way over to John and Athene-A. They were standing in a crowd of Councilors, reporting. “Two hundred thirteen confirmed dead, six more in critical condition, and, well, just about everyone else is wounded,” John said. Dian-A-Artemis had the white skull up to face level. “We’re getting close. Now, let’s see if you can better the odds of our critically wounded,” she said to the skull, and then walked away to use it on the most desperate. John looked sad, as he watched the group leave. “That one was costly. I hope we can be forgiven.” “They understand the risks, we did what we always do, survive, win, and live to fight another day,” Aidan said. “Yes, my friend. Well, there’s nothing left for us to do, but report, analyze, and learn from what happened. I need some rest.” John sadly walked away with Athene-A close behind.

Jay had a restless night, even after exhaustingly convincing Shell that he needed sleep. He was alone in his quarters, laying on his back in just a pair of sweat pants, staring at the ceiling for answers. The door chimed. He ed to secure it last night after Shell left. He strolled to the door, instead of voice activating it, he opened it. There stood Rhe-A, her E-suit was perfect. She stood there and looked at the bare-chested man, trying not to look obvious. “I see you’ve finally figured out the locking mechanism,” she flatly said. “Nice to see you, too. Come in.”

She walked in formally, as he went to the small kitchen and got some coffee. “Want some?” “No, thank you. I was sent to escort you to the cartography lab.” “You could’ve just called.” She looked uncomfortable. “I wanted to speak to you about what happened at the ruins.” “Oh, the part where you expressed to me that you loved me.” She shifted her stance. “Ah, hum, among other things. I wanted to thank you for what you did.” “So, a guy has to save the world to impress you.” She half smiled. “Uhum, well, you haven’t exactly saved the world, but, not bad for a chimp.” He smiled, thinking he saw her blush. He decided to stop torturing her. “How about we talk about this over dinner?” “The wounded are all back to full health. I am free for the evening.” “Good, it’s a date then.” He touched his sweat pants, and the E-suit formed his jumpsuit as he led her out of the room. “What’s so important at the lab?” “Over the millennia, we have lost many people searching and retrieving the tracker skulls. It’s our small way of honoring those who have fallen. It’s something like a presentation ceremony, also. We take the tracker skulls we find and secure them in the laboratory vault.” Jay listened intently as they strolled down the hallway. “Let’s not keep them waiting.”

The room was large, and dome shaped. Smooth metal walls showed no sign of being a cave. Groups of people stood around chatting. Jay made his way through

them to see several chest high podiums in the middle of the room. They were aligned in a perfect circle; the architecture was the customary ancient Greek. Athene-A and John approached Jay and Rhe-A. “Jay,” John said, “Glad you came.” “Sure, wouldn’t miss it. Why am I here?” “You are the guest of honor,” Athene-A said, beaming with pride. “We want you to present the artifact to its place.” Athene-A brought the skull from behind her back, and handed it to him. He reluctantly took it, and spun it around in his hand. “I have told you; these things have always creeped me out, right?” The Atlanteans formed a circle around the circle of podiums. They lightly chanted an ancient poem, while Aidan, backed up by Hephaestus, sang their new history in a deep voices. Jay was coaxed to put the skull on one of the two remaining empty stands. He nervously moved toward the empty podium. He stopped and looked around at the many multi-colored, multi-shaped rocks, that thankfully for him, were all facing inward toward each other. He thought how it looked like his Grandfather’s collection, from the time he was a kid. The fear came back, but so did the curiosity and fascination of the hunt. He looked closer. He notice for the first time, that with the one skull he had, there was only one more left to find. He shifted the skull in his palm as he lifted it. “What’s that?” he whispered to himself. He turned it over and examined the base of the rock. The chanting died down, and then stopped. He held it up to get some reflective light. John move up next to him. “What is it, Jay?” “There’s something carved on the bottom of this thing.” He tried to make it out, as more people squeezed in. “It reads, ‘alterum.’ Sounds Latin. I barely got through that class, too.” John studied it for a translation. “It’s quite mangled...but it could be...one, or maybe it could mean-” he stopped. “Another, or second, perhaps one-of-two.” “Oh my God, Gramps, you crazy fox, you also found the last one.”

The End, For Now...