Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ Homeworld - Tales of the Vjel-Amaj: Aira's Quest - Part I ❯ Chapter 20 - Homecoming ( Chapter 20 )

(Narrative voice)

There is a wise saying: “War… War never changes…”

Wars are constantly fought throughout the galaxy. Should it be for survival or prejudice philosophies, it does not matter. Nations, factions, hegemonies, empires, kiithid, crusades - They all may oppress each other and despite the outcome or duration of such war, both sides suffer throughout ages and generations of hardship.

No matter which ever side may be in advantage of success: Those enduring, those witnessing, those experiencing the ongoing war will some day question the intentions of their leaders. Sooner or later, these wars will afflict the oppressors as well.

It may not be now… but some day… some day…
(end of narrative speech)



*long yawning*


Feeling the ride coming to an end, the officer gently slapped the side of his face several time and straightened his clean new uniform. While the deserved long sleep and the final shower did him well, he still was affected by the aftermath of the adventures through the gaseous expanse. As the doors shifted open, he immediately spotted an armed marine waiting at the wall of the corridor.


“Commander Orelis - Good morning, sir”, the marine greeted, shortly removing his hand from the rifle's grip to perform a short salute.

Observing the marine, Orelis recognized the armed marine as Corporal Aaron Salico of Amaj. Aaron seemed to have had a lousy sleep - that is, if he actually took some. Judging his overall looks, the marine still wore a combat gear; most of it being scratched and marked by battle. Several of his ammunition clips were missing, which were probably depleted during the raiding incident. The trained marine was most likely still on full awareness.


Suddenly, a shout was heard far down the corridor, followed by a few sparks jumping out of the wall. The operative wove his hand, showing that he was alright. Other moaning technicians approached the open panel of the wall, revealing burnt electronic entrails.

“<Hoo boy…>Mornin'? Heh, I must have lost track of time”, the commanding officer replied as he exited the lift.

Orelis looked down both ends of the corridor and discovered several operatives and technicians dealing with technical issues. The deck was rather calm as the two men made their way. Much noticeable, Orelis' ears merely welcomed this moment - unlike the blaring alarms and terror that occurred many hours ago.

“If I may give you an advice: avoid deck five if possible, Corperal.”
“Sir?”

“I had to do a detour since the nearest access lift was malfunctioning… There was a waste leakage in one of the maintenance tubes. Aside to that, there are still `morgue duties' to be resolved there, too.”
“Roger…”


“One great thing I saw was that a long line of volunteers are still up for blood donations. But anyways… You were the one who convinced that taiidan officer to surrender?”

It took several moments until Aaron was able to reply, “Yeah… yes, sir.”



The grim officer rubbed his forehead. Hearing the report of captured intruders was one thing, but the upcoming interrogation with the `sworn' enemies at the brig was going to be a lot more of a complicated matter. Other operatives passed by.


“Tell me, just how you did that? I mean - They were gung-ho serious with this infiltration. Vaygr, turanics… taiidans - frell, they were out to kill us all this time through and then they just give up like that?!”

“Not really that sure about that one”, Aaron answered, noting that he was still affected by the aftermath of the entire operation, “There was this moment where a squad of armed operatives and I managed to corner that specific group of those turanics and two taiidans who seemed to be superior officers leading the raid. A highly trained opposing force they were - but things went awkward. I understood a loud argument between the two commanding taiidans - something about the two vaygr that were presumed killed-in-action.”


“They were arguing?!”

“Yes, arguing. They both had some sort of disagreement. After a short moment, one of them - most likely the higher ranked one - suddenly declared surrender and demanded all of their armed men to seize and immediately disarm themselves. That officer guy even broadcasted that surrender over open frequencies, probably the reason why separate opposing gunmen across the ship suddenly gave up. That officer guy really meant it.”


“That really sounds weird - so weird, I'd actually rather keep my distance from the brig.”
“That wasn't all, though, sir.”


“Hey, Aaron, drop the formalities for now - but what are you talking about? And speaking of that, didn't you say that only `one' female taiidan officer was alive among several turanics now at the brig? <Man… Lots of women on commanding positions lately *sigh*>”
“The superior taiidan officer committed `jigaii'…”


“…Gee-whaaaat?”
“Surrendering to a losing battle is one thing, but considering taiidan officers, they prefer not to fall into enemy hands - not alive.”
“You mean they…”


“Exactly. It was a very ugly scene, sir. Only moments after the argument with the turanics leading to their surrendering and pushing over all of their weapons, the superior male officer suddenly stood up and took steps towards our people. I shouted at him to stay back or I would open fire - but that did not impress him anyhow. I also demanded the operatives to stay back and keep sharp of any attempts. That was when the man suddenly pulled an elegant blade slowly and slit…”, Aaron paused, “… Gods, the blood. We've seen much these last days but that was… insane. Was a terrifying one, I tell you, Commander.”

“Whoa… and what about this female one who survived?”


“No, yes… err, well - she attempted to commit suicide, too - but just before that knife of hers touched her neck, I pled her to stop”, Aaron explain. It was noticeable that the pale marine was affected by experience, ”We held this bizarre conversation… argument… Just moments before we were trying to kill each other and then… and then I end up trying to convince her of staying alive - as if that weren't insane enough. Jigaii is some traditional taiidan suicide method - no idea why they do it, but they take it seriously. I told the woman that life was not over - they may have committed serious crimes on us, but we would not desecrate their honor albeit their defeat.”



Aaron uneasily recalled the moment he stood with his rifle aiming for the taiidan woman, then lowering it as he desperately tried to convince the woman.

“*sigh* Traditions… I heard these taiidans don't really understand ourgalactic common well either, how were they to understand you that well then?”
“I'm of taiidan heritage, actually, sir.”


“Really? Didn't know about that.”
“I'd prefer nobody else to know about it either, sir.”
“Heh, if you are lucky, Deena doesn't know. If she does, it's too late, Aaron.”


“It was close call, anyways. I have no idea why the turanics follow the taiidans, but Commander, you won't believe your eyes or ears when you see the turanics and hear what that taiidan is up to.”

“No way, man. Ha-ha-ha… no way - Nothing will surprise me from now on. Danced our asses through M'randara, nothing will hit me from here on - and hey, cheer up. You did an extraordinary well as a commanding unit”, Orelis complimented to the marine, “Coordination at the bridge was already much of confusion but you kept your cool and were pretty much the only guy who kept initiative.”


“Thank you, sir - but I was the only `highest ranked' marine left to command those operatives. With three other marines spread across the ship, I had no other choice. If we only had Major Bahur and the others… we could have saved more lives. ”
“I know… I know… and I have yet to see the full casualty list. Something I am definitely not looking forward to, but as usual… We've no choice.”

“There were a lot of gunfights as I made my way through - far too many things that happened at once.”

Both continued on their way to the brig.



= The Brig =


After bypassing several security perimeters of the darkened brig's sector, both Orelis and Aaron stood at the entrance of the large imprisonment room. Despite the ship's elegance compared to others, all brigs always had the dull appearance of silvery tones upon its walls.

Though greeted by another subordinating marine and five other armed operatives stationed along the wall, there seemed to be slight tension in the air. Alike Aaron, the other marine also showed sign of stress and daydreaming due to a lousy sleep. The operatives however were pale, anxiously keeping watch and awareness upon the other side of the room. The air was cool but gave a definite metallic scent. Aside to the voices, distant regulators pulsed breathable air into the large room.

Surprisingly, Captain Quenton Soban was already in progress of negotiating with the prisoners. Noticing him sitting across the table with the officer, Orelis guessed the captain was assured that neither taiidan nor the turanics would do any harm. A short look to Aaron revealed that the taiidan and her subordinates kept word of surrender seriously.


“<No way…>”
“<Told you, sir…>”, Aaron commented to him as Orelis observed them:


The only taiidan of the bunch was the female handcuffed officer; a determined-looking young woman with sharp eyes, short brown hair - somewhere at the age and only a tad smaller compared with Hailynn Delixa. On the outside, one would not be able to tell the real physiological difference between kushans and taiidans - but usually, the psyche of the beings would reveal their differences sooner or later. The taiidan seem stressed; an aspect Orelis would commonly see among his weary crew.

Granted, her appearance did not reveal all too much other than Orelis only distinguishing her as some sort of marine or naval officer in a superior leadership position. What confused him though was her uniform, which was the cutting line between elegance and durability for any harsh condition, hardly giving the impression of a lethal intruder. He assumed taiidan raiding parties had officers behind the strike groups rather than within. The taiidan woman wore emblems that Orelis recalled from history classes - he had seen those emblems in books and even in some weird action holo-movies when he was a kid.


After Orelis smirked inwardly, his face suddenly frowned. The turanics on the other hand gave many reasons to be skeptical of. Anxiety was written on the faces of the amaji operatives who held their rifles low but ready. Aside all facts, there were two main aspects that led to his after-all surprised reaction. One laid-back, bored-looking female turanic sat besides the negotiating taiidan; the rest of the turanic faction remained further behind, also handcuffed and quietly listening to the ongoing talks.


Noticeable differences were written on their foreheads. Simple as it was, most of them were of turanic full blood; a selected few including the one who sat next to the taiidan, barely had ridged foreheads - resembling the fact that they were half taiidan, half turanic. The most noticeable thing that actually caught Orelis by surprise was their age and individual appearances. None of these men or women really seemed to be older than the common generation of amajis on the `Vjel-Amaj'; most likely in their mid-to-late twenties. Youngsters, another selected few just bypassing the adolescent age… Each and every one of them had the looks of some distinct retro-urban style, wearing vests, clan tags, tattoos - definitely not what he expected.

All of them were athletically built, seemingly well-trained for any means of combat. Granted, these turanics were not like those manic tribes and raiders among amaji space - but they all wore separate things much to the confusion of Orelis.

A raiding party was one thing, but this was not some disciplined troop - this was some sort of mixed up… Orelis found no word for it.

Nonetheless, they all revealed trace of combat - but also sign of fatigue and messed up clothing, as if they had been on a journey for ages.


Excluding the captain, Orelis and the others never really had seen turanics other than in the media back at Amaji Prime, usually about arrested or condemned ones. It was true that they all had no eye colors but tones only ranging from black to light grey; also that they seem to naturally lack the perception of certain colors as well.


Up to now, it became clear to Orelis how dreadful the gunfights throughout the ship must have been for the amaji operatives… They were shooting upon people who were just as bloody young.


Aaron stared upon the taiidan woman who only returned the same glare with those sharp eyes; most of her face was hidden behind hands due to leaning her elbows upon the table.
“Commander Orelis, Corporal Aaron Salico - Welcome”, the captain greeted them after ending the dialog with the taiidan officer, “I am glad you joined us so soon. There is much to be discussed - developments to be explained and understood. I have had a thorough negotiation with this officer.”

Both men saluted to the ex-captain of the ship.


A short glimpse over his shoulder revealed anxious operatives, "At ease, men. They are no longer of hostile intent. It looks like we are in desperate need of a `kiith advocate' now.”


The operatives within the large room hesitated to respond to the captain.

“S-Sir?”, Orelis questioned with a puzzled face, “You require a… lawyer?”

“Yes. Aside to the political situation we already have with the vaygr refugees, we have another faction requesting asylum along with their foregoing previous bloodtruce”, Captain Quenton replied and focused his view upon the group ahead again, “The operatives who are currently present seem to be the only ones who possess slight knowledge of such laws.”

Orelis tried to find words, but stuttered. Them surrendering was already a surprise, but regarding the request of asylum and a pledged bloodtruce?!

Two female operatives nervously whispered to each other.


“Ena Takaii hirue amajenkeii… moeii qaii… mo…”, the roguish female `taiiranic' next to the negotiating taiidan slowly commented along with a head gesture . After the remark, a few of the turanics behind smirked and chuckled slightly. Her words obviously made fun of the squirmy young amaji women across the room.

“Ma'gre TAII!”, Aaron suddenly barked at them, “Watch that mouth of yours, turanic scum!”


The group on the opposite side revealed surprised faces. That young marine they confronted hours ago understood their language indeed well.

“Ladies, gentlemen. At ease”, Quenton calmly demanded, “We are no longer enemies. Please, no more harsh comments -”, his view then returned to the taiidan officer and the taiiranic once more, “- no more insulting slurs or taunts either. Please. Please speak in galactic common. The tongue is flexible enough for all of us to understand defined meanings. My taiidan tongue differs too great to comprehend due to their - or my dialect. But pardon my forgetfulness. Amaji, this officer is Delophane Vamaii, serving a rank similar to that of a Lieutenant. The turanic woman next to her is Beii Keljin, supposedly a subordinate leader of the turanics behind.”


Delophane Vamaii greeted when she heard her name and bowed her head as she was not able to perform gestures. The taiiranic woman only sighed with a bored look to them before looking upon her handcuffed wrists. <Price of freedom…>?, she asked herself inwardly.

“With all due respect, Captain”, Orelis suddenly noted with a serious undertone, “but this is madness! I must apologize again, sir, but these people… just hours ago they were trying to kill us - and they did happen to kill both non-combatants and operatives who failed in defending their lives! They invaded us - killed our people - and now they want truce?!”


“Bloodtruce, Commander. We may differ from them, but we still represent the Kiith Amaj and its pride. We are no longer death-sworn enemies as declared bloodtruce is a codex both sides respect”, the captain calmly explained further, “Their affiliation and deeds caused with and by the vaygr were more or less a cause of persuasion. I assure you, Commander Orelis, this is a delicate issue that requires kiith advocate negotiations solely.”


Orelis denied and shook his head, “Sorry, captain, but I doubt that. They are...”


A woman's voice cleared her throat, “Loyalist…”, the voice repeated with a note of accent.
Delophane, the taiidan officer, repeated the word once more, “Loyalists… Yes. We are.”

Strange for Orelis to hear saying exactly what he thought of.

The captain arranged his view once more upon the two who sat ahead of him. At a brief moment, Delophane perceived a grumble of discomfort from the usually impatient taiiranic next to her. It was noticeable that something had been bugging her and the other turanics behind for quite some time.
Frequent eye twitching… faces hiding behind their limbs… Delophane knew her turanic friends too well - Surprising both Aaron and Orelis again, both spotted the taiidan woman making a short smile, as if she thought of something amusing.


“Excuse my directness, Captain Soban… but my fellow subordinates are affected by the illumination intensity of this room.”
“It is I who must apologize. Please forgive me, for I have forgotten about turanic sensitivity. Operatives, please dim the lighting of this room.”


Aaron gave an annoyed hum from himself as the lighting was dimmed, due to the fact that it was already dark in this place.

Furthermore, it was odd for the amajis to see how diplomatic and polite the captain was with these… killers.
Relieving sighs echoed through the room.

The taiidan woman continued her intended speech, “Thank yourself”, she misspoken, most likely cause by her dialect, “Yes, as your subordinate intended to say, we are loyalists - just alike you, subordinate officer... O-reh-liss. We may be of different bloodkeii, but the moment the captain and later on, you, entered this imprisonment, I sensed your loyalties… I must correct oneself: By bloodkeii, we are loyalists - but our minds are not tainted. I assure you that my brethren were not of free will. Our kind has suffered for generations amidst `Curse'.”


“Curse?”, Aaron asked.
“<The abundance of that blighting curse throughout that star system, dren-ki>”, the taiiranic woman snarled in taiidan dialect, somewhat insultingly.
“<Say that again, punk!>”, he replied in taiidan language.


“Seize at once”, the captain demanded, “I assume the officer is referring to the nebula expanse we know as the M'randara Star System. Operative Sanrin?”

“Y-yes sir?”, one of the two female operatives replied, “Here…”

“Are you still recording all of this negotiation.”

“Aye, sir. Still `live and on air'.”

“Excellent. This is important as future kiith advocates, Amaji High Command and of course, Commander Hailynn will require this report. Please, Officer Vamaii, continue.”


“To understand”, Delophane nodded, “Our `nations' have been entrapped within `Curse' for generations. Both of our kinds have suffered greatly. Throughout our struggle, many of the already elder leaders aged to death due to lack of what is known as long living serum.”

“Longevity.”

“To understand. Turmoil in both military and serving nation spread throughout our rows”, Delophane once again misspoken certain words, “As you may to notice, my surrounding brethren are of young generation. We suffered greatest.”



Aside to the lingual difficulties, Orelis' forehead formed wrinkles as he crossed his arms and wondered where this story was leading to.


“Our relatives and ancestors prevailed throughout `Curse' for years. Our relatives told of a story before our time, the majestic mothership known as `Taiika' serving his shadow, Emperor Riesstiu IV, was infestation by a… Virulency… ”

Despite the wild mishaps of her dialect, one could easily come to the conclusion that the taiidan was referring about the semi-sentient biomechanical remains of `The Beast', proven by the discovery of the withered infestation upon the derelict mothership days ago.
“This was when real turmoil breaken loose, servants of amaj, and -”

Beii bumped her elbow against hers and mumbled something from the side.

“- Czass, Beii. Breeding lives within `Curse' was much of a problem. Chance of survival risen when serving prospectors discovered a planet amidst `Curse'. Prosperity occurred. The remaining leaders decided to strip the mothership of its propulsion and Singulariteii Core - to some day return when the Virulency would fade. Decades passed - Throughout the years and our births into the youngest generation, our `nations' confronted the `nation' of Kadesh. Surprising - for these beings exist among the fringe of a far different quadrant in the galaxeii. Amidst time of this, a crusading nation of warriors discovered our existence… Brothers and sisters of our blood - Blood of `Taiika Aksaii Vay'! Those were a generation offspring of another taiidan mothership that served amidst the shadow of our emperor. A century had passed since our lost contact with `Taiika Aksaii Vay'…”


The taiidan woman suddenly paused.
“To serve and survival is our bloodkeii”, Beii suddenly mentioned with her turanic accent, “Vaygr bloodkeii flows among ours, our bloodkeii to vaygr - but our bloodkeii suffered ongoing war with Kadeshi.”

Both Aaron and Orelis made noticeable movements of gloom and pondering; the dialect and its flawed expressions with galactic common was indeed a tough one to comprehend.

“Bah…!”, Beii impatiently cursed, “Dennu szekrii amajen dren-ki ulizeii taiikaneii…” - obviously annoyed by the fact that the counterpart side of the room had difficulties understanding... and of course, her impatience.

“Liisaii, En-keii!”, the taiidan officer demanded loudly to the taiiranic, obviously demanding her to stay quiet, “To excuse herself. As I spoken, to serve was our dignity… no… definitely false wording I assure. Duty of serve called our blooding brethren - my brethren, my brothers and sisters, to serve the war. Young bloodkeii as you are seeing….”


“O-Officer… Vamah - Vamay?”, Operative Sanrin's voice stuttered.

Delophane nodded.

“What is an `enkay'?”, the female operative asked.
“Beii is of half-bloodkeii of my own.”

“Half-blood? She is, of all respect, a half-turanic, but also half of your blood… bloodkay, you say?”
“Czass… I mean, yes.”

“Operative Sanrin”, the captain wished to clarify, “Despite their last names or definitions of their `kiithid', Beii Keljin is Delophane's half sister.”
Surprisingly, there were in fact distinct similarities.

“If I may ask a question”, Orelis demanded to her and straightened his back, “Just what made you so sure about us amaji… How did you people actually decide about all of this? This is some confusing frakk of bullshit I never heard in my life!”


“Despite loyalist - Taiidans and turanics of no choice but to serve. Many lives were lost to the kadeshi. To mindlessly by the vaygr as well. Vaygr crusading only seeking bloodshed. Amidst the war, we discovered your ship - a distant `nation' of Kushan-Kharakeii. Surprising… our only survival was defection - but my bloodkeii was among serving warriors of Vaygr. Contact we wish with your blooding know as Amajikeii - but our intention were to be of our death if Vaygr were to sense our wish.”


“Orelis, Operative Sanrin. A note to the record: Despite the doctrine of Pax, it seems the attendees were forced to serve under the vaygr crusade. Albeit taiidan loyalty, defection was their only true way of survival.”

“Was still no reason to slaughter us when they invaded our ship!”, Aaron shouted at prisoners disrespectfully.

“Attain respect, Corporal. That is not all. My instinct tells me they were persuaded to fight our people.”


“To precise, Captain of Soban”, Delophane continued, “Not all of my brethren - precisely my clan, my true bloodkeii - wished of defection. Vaygr crusaders were of legendary will - many of my taiidan brethren wished to serve under their will - but not us.”


Orelis took a deep breath. Clearly, he hated all of them, despite their stories - but just for this short moment, he thought about some of her words. Presumptively granted that - and just from their point of view - maybe there was some truth behind their words?
He still saw an enemy in them; but if that taiidan officer was trying to pull some sort of psychological warfare on him, she was doing pretty well in that aspect. Concluding her words, the taiidans, and of course the turanics as well, still had some sort of `call to arms' pledge and that so-called Pax, that dreaded doctrine that turn any mind into a zealot of that fundamental will.

The grim officer concluded further words of the taiidan. Not only was it complicated, it was now clear how delicate this issue was. The onslaught was not caused arbitrarily by the surviving taiidan-turanic side -ironically, they were possibly victims of persuasion who seek refuge from the ongoing madness by all leaders. However, the persuasions also forced them to cause lethal deeds upon the amaji crew in order to stay alive and fool the vaygr… They only wanted to stay alive…


The taiidan-turanics may have served with their lives to support the slaughtering war against those Kadeshi Seekers and of course the Singularity Core they took from them, but some of them were not mindless. It must have been some sort of bloody coincidence that the `Vjel-Amaj' appeared to support the Kadeshi. Another thought filled his mind.
Aside to the coincidence, they must have focused specifically on the task of boarding the `Vjel-Amaj' but only had one shot in doing so.
The commander shook his head. They had to stay clear of the ship's defensive systems - probably that moment they endeavored boarding that was coincidentally the moment Hailynn demanded final retreat from the M'randara Star System.

However, those who wished to defect and intend surrender were still persuaded by gunpoint, aside to the amajis who only wished to defend their lives from the unknown intruders. The confusion and hostile approach of course made matters worse when they boarded the `Vjel-Amaj'.



Unexpectedly, Delophane slammed her handcuffed wrists upon the table; her silk-gloved hands formed fists,
“We never intended to shed amaji-bloodkeii! I am to speak for my intention when we boarded this ship! Intrusion was deadly… I to know of this! To regret, I wish… To blame, I am… Certain people of my clan were forced to serve the two remaining vaygr warriors… Amajikeii threatened our lives before we were able to endeavoring negotiation…. We were also once of many, but ethereal hyperspace surged - tearing lives into deaths…”


Orelis' eyes widened. Hailynn's plan of surging the side of the ship helped to kill off the intruders - but it also killed those who only wanted to survive and surrender.
A cold shiver ran down his spine again. Delophane's entourage did not know that that surge was caused by Hailynn's will of killing them. The real `Friend or Foe' question slowly proved itself as friend… and they probably killed many of them - nonetheless, more of those dreaded deadly vaygr infiltrators were surely on those two other pods.


“In unfortunate… Officer of Taiika, of higher rank demanded my brethren to serve the vaygr with our bloodkeii. I endeavored creed, but he did not to understand at first. Other brethren followed the order of his and of vaygr servants. Only when amajikeii succeeded in ending existence of vaygr servants, I at last endeavored and successful! However, Officer of Taiika still believed in loyalty to Pax Vaygr. Following the heed of my desperate plea, he declared surrender at last… but his loyalty brought shame as an officer… shame brought him death…”


“Pff - Officer Vamaii! You were just as obsessed as those killers”, Aaron attacked her verbally, “You were about to stab your neck and spread your blood across the floor right after his move!”
“I - I…”, the taiidan woman stuttered.


“I don't know why I actually told you to stop! You and your frakking troops killed a lot of people I knew very well - I should actually…”, the angered corporal suddenly raised his rifle.

“Whoa - Whoa! <not another gunpoint!>”, Orelis yelled at him.


“Corporal Salico. I demand you to lower your rifle”, Captain Quenton demanded calmly - as usual.


Beii was about to intervene, despite being locked up - her intention surely to be a violent one - but she was held back by Delophane's denying gesture not to provoke an escalation.


“Captain of Soban. No… He is right to be of anger. It is true. I wished to perform `Jigaii', but not truly as loyalty to my Officer of Taiika. I assure you… It was of shame for shedding bloodkeii of all oppressed `nations'. If execution wills to be yours, Cor-po-ral… so it to be. I deserve… but please - to understand, I also feared the future. Bloodkeii was shed… I willed to die despite to unknowing of my clan's future, but it was you who dared to convince me… of life… not death… life…”


The operatives were petrified by the sudden situation. The other marine wanted to intervene as well, but his sluggish reactions due to tiredness held him from responding; he was stunned.
Again, he recalled that bizarre argument he had with that woman.
He remembered the eyes of that officer woman, Delophane, who wanted to cause another dreadful suicide just like that officer recently. Everybody had fears - despite the hatred he had against all enemies of the kiith, he discovered the same fear within her eyes during that moment the blade hovered only a centimeter above the critical spot of her neck.
It took several moments until Aaron lowered his rifle again.
Everybody calmed down; especially Orelis, who felt a lifetime's moment of grief and relief passing by. He also sighed. First vaygr and hiigaran refugees… now a handful of turanics and a single taiidan wanted asylum.


“*Sigh* I need a break from this… madness…”, Aaron lastly commented.

“Corporal, I am no longer a superior officer, but I suggest you attain recreational endeavors. I suggest you to end duty and rest.”
“I'm with the captain here, Aaron. It's best you get some sleep. We all went through some crazy shit these last days… Some real sleep - you deserve it.”, Orelis `politely' demanded as well.

“I will do so.”
“Do not to depart yet…”, Delophane pled, “Please listen further.”
Hesitating to leave, he halted and turned around as Delophane insisted to speak further about her brethren and the misguided intentions.


The clan of Delophane was most likely the small portion of those who wished to escape the curse of `Curse' and the mindless onslaught. The bloodshed of the vaygr and their taiidani leaders must have conflicted with their conscience.
Aside to Delophane who openly revealed her deepest regrets for their deeds, the turanics throughout the room did show laments due to the persuasion. It was that moment again where Orelis felt the same regrets he had for Hailynn when she confessed her flawed self.
He raised his head; These people were telling the truth…

= Main Engineering, rear sector =
Two souls quietly slept, hidden within the shades of the deep purring comb. Both have been asleep for many hours - however, one of them began to move uneasily. Despite the nightmares having passed by for a long time, something else seemed to disturb the girl's sleep.
Silently shrieking, Aira's reaction also awoke the embracing hiigaran. Cramping pain petrified Hailynn, but surprisingly, she did not call a sound but had an open mouth showing pain. Several moments went by until the cramp faded again.


Aira suddenly curled closer to Hailynn, as if she had sensed something that scared her.

“…A-Aira… What is wrong?”
The kadeshi girl did not answer but moved her hands upon the sides of her head. The tight comb hardly gave Hailynn any space. Hailynn noticed the girl's unease, but it was not the usual `frightened' reaction as if something bad was happening.
That chime… an echo of a humming bell… motions…
The girl's mind was still distorted - but after a long while, words finally left her lips in a whisper, “Th-They are coming… We are no longer alone… N-Naji… They have found us…”

Chapter 20 - Homecoming


Almost another twenty minutes later.

“D-Did I understand you right, Kelsea?!”
“”Ah…A-Affirmative, sir!””, Kelsea's slightly distorted voice emitted from Orelis' shoulder radio, “”Observation discovered Tachyon particle readings - m-mothership ship class - and it will be showing up here any time around! Commander, there is only one race in the entire galaxy that -””

“Don't panic! We'll be on our way to the bridge - Orelis out!”

A single look to the captain revealed that he understood the situation.


“A-Amajen?”, the arrested Delophane dared to ask, “W-What is to happening?”

Orelis hesitated to respond.

“Officer Vamaii”, the captain replied, “Our ship is stranded somewhere in space. In order to return to the Kiith Amaj, we attempted to beacon distress. Apparently, tachyon particles emission reveal the soon emerge point of a Bentusi vessel - as said, a vessel resembling that of mothership class signature.”

“B-Bentusi-keii?”, Delophane repeated and dropped her shoulders, surprised to hear that the amaji were affiliated with the enigmatic Bentusi - only recalling stories of the legendary race that sailed the entire galxay she never met in her life.

“Czass”, he confirmed in the taiidan language, “Unfortunately, Officer, I cannot allow any of you to leave the brig as severe allegations and concern still prevail. I have no other choice but to detain your clan further upon the brig until further notice.”
“To understand, Captain of Soban”, accepting the condition of custody.


Sanrin and the other operatives suddenly cheered, noticing that they were probably going to come home after all.


“Very well… If I may comment, Officer Vamaii, your loyalty to your clan is… respectable. Pride.”


Delophane only bowed her head slightly as all the two amajis officers, the three operatives and the two marines departed from the large room.


“These last days were pretty crazy, captain”, Orelis commented.
“Indeed.”
“Bentusi… *smirks* Never thought to hear good news… for a change.”

 

= Corridor beyond the Main Engineering Sector =

“A-Ai… Aira! *gasp*”, Hailynn stuttered as she fought trying to move fast. The kadeshi girl was in a hurry, outright desperate to reach the bridge as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, Hailynn's body had not even regenerated a single bit during the long cramped-up sleep. Her limbs were still severely sore and were of course hindered by the medical bandages.
After the public announcement of the detected bentusi jump anomaly, several operatives along their way also rushed and cheered along the corridor; some of them even froze as they spotted the bandaged hiigaran who was actually believed to be dead.


“Ai-ra… wait! I need a… break…”, Hailynn suddenly gasped. This rush to the executive deck and the bridge was far too strenuous for her severely bruised body, “Getting'… too… old… for… this…”

Suddenly, the hiigaran halted and stumbled upon the wall. Her sore left eye and headache forced her down to the floor. Others immediately came to help her out. Aira suddenly stopped as she noticed her absent caretaker, “Naji!”

The partially tattooed girl immediately rushed back to her.

“S-s-sorry, Aira. I'm still too weak… I can't keep up with the pace - Why don't you go ahead and -“
Ignoring the other operatives and technicians, Aira instantly hugged Hailynn's neck, “My n-naji… Forgive me… It is I who must apologize.”

Obviously, the girl's hasted enthusiasm led to the lack of consideration for the hindered Hiigaran. Hailynn however knew that the adolescent Aira had a deep emotional connection with the Bentusi; Their soon appearance being something the girl had been longing a few months, especially after expressing the life and death of Shodanii and the thriving adventure through the dreaded expanse.


“A-Aira, com' on - It's okay. You go ahead, girl *gulp*”


Unintentionally, Aira's embrace around Hailynn's neck tightened more as she gently squeezed her head upon the cheek, “My soul bears not to leave your side… Naji… I beg forgiveness…”, her soft voice spoke, ”The Bentusi… I sense their song. They are coming, Hailynn, they are coming!”.

After releasing the hiigaran from her friendly choking, Aira's gestures and movements still revealed great distortions within her mind as she spoke further in excitement, not noticing that she even spoke in kadeshi and gibberish galactic common, “- alas-sheh, my naji, tennu gesh is'shi - from your side… tennu from your side…“, and once again embraced the hiigaran one more time.

A few of the surrounding operatives had to smile as they saw how the girl hugged the seriously injured woman in her wrecked uniform. The kadeshi girl worried too much for the hiigaran.


= Brig sector =


Two bored amaji operatives who stood guard duty, one of them being Operative Sanrin, noticed a person's voice approaching them. Strangely enough, they did not expect anybody else coming since the captain and his group already negotiated with the prisoners within the large cell behind them and were about to take care of the diplomatic contact with the bentusi.


“Mmhmhmh… hmmhmhmhmhmmhmmmm…”, a voice happily hummed from the corner.


Nervously looking towards that direction, both finally spotted the source of that humming… bird?

“Heeeeey <3”, the person greeted friendly and wove her hand.
The eyes of Sanrin and her colleague widened as they recognized the black haired woman in a slightly dirty dark green uniform and symbols resembling that of a high ranking logistics officer.


- When worlds collide? -

At the same time…
“*Whew*, sorry guys <hey, how's it going man?>”, a familiar voice spoke from the far rear end of the bridge while greeting somebody at the side.
“Quan!”, Kenta yelled back to him, “Where've you been - what took you so long, darn it?! Been calling you for ages!”

The bridge still emitted the periodic chime.
Kenta's brother swiftly made his way past several stations as he arranged his clothing. The bridge was already alive again with several other operatives already taking care of internal affairs of the ship; above and below were pairs of technicians fiddling around with the technical veins of systems.

“Hey, I just got up - didn't pick up the line `cause I knew you'd be screaming me to hurry. Didn't expect to be kicked outta bed so suddenly, y'know. Logistics said I had tons of hours for off duty and - ”

“I know, I know - I'm sorry, but as Orelis said, he wants everybody on duty and stated `Condition: Yellow', Q. He will be here any time soon. No idea about Commander Hailynn.”
Finally reaching the observatory station, Quan sat down upon the seat and adjusted himself closer to the consoles.

“All right, all right - but why the darn rush?”, he questioned her while looking on all screens, no sight of any bentusi ships other than the anomaly.
“Tachyon radiation - Bentusi are coming to us…”, Kenta replied and paused.

“Well, looks like Aira's distress worked but… umm. You called me up here just to tell me that? I know Orelis wants us on duty, but man, you could've given me more time and -”


Kenta's face became serious, “Quan, I need your help.”

“What?”

“The emissions from that jump anomaly out there are starting to interfere with my astronomic survey! If I fail to analyze all of the data I gathered these last hours, the tachyon distortion will screw up and falsify my cartography!”

“But -”, Quan replied to his sister but hesitated to answer.
His sister was determined to get this specific task done. He knew Kenta was always somebody who wanted to get a job done, but when it specifically came to cartographic and observatory surveys, her determination became even stronger. Not only that, Quan also knew that Kenta was a person who sought for beautiful pictures of nebulae and the prismatic formations surrounding all arcs of the ship.

One could joke that Kenta was alike Aira. The galaxy offered so many things for the eye and there was a lot more to it why both loved the observation.

Silly girls and their adore for pretty things, he thought. Quan did not really care much about the galaxy, but his mathematic knowledge for taking on complicated astronomical calculations gave him astonishing advantages during the academy times several months ago.


The `Vjel-Amaj' offered a plethora of sophisticated observatory systems; systems and technologies they never thought to put their hands on. One of these specific technologies considered best for the task was an imagery capture system that allowed breathtaking accurate pictures coupled with the computers that dealt with the in-depth cartography. Taking photos with standard telemetric scopes were nowhere close to the capabilities of such imagery system.


Knowing his sister well, she was also a devote artist who loved painting the galactic sky - another amaji characteristic throughout the kiith. She was also dependant of these imagery captures used for inspirations, but aside to that fact, she had an innermost sought for these images - most noticeable when she does happen to see them with her naked eye through the augmented telescopes.


Previously, this unknown grid somewhere in deadspace ironically offered a clear view for the observatory, clear and free of annoying fields and emissions that would mess up the sensitive captures - on the other hand, if an astronomer were not able to filter other disturbances within a certain time, gathered images would wither due to the short-lived memory system of this effective photo capturing system.
Unfortunately, tachyon emissions belonged to one of the worst enemies of such astronomical photographer.

Quan had doubts since this deadspace spot was unlikely to be an important spot but Kenta was begging for help. Understanding his sister's plea, he nodded and decided to help her out though knowing that it could be too late.

“Sooooooo, what's up, guys?”
“Chief Deena?- well…”

Both stared at the logistics officer. Her appearance was still riddled with signs of battle and dirty oil smears, but other than that, she seem fine and had the recognizable happiness written on her face. Aside to her looks, loud noise emitted from her headsets, as if she were listening to some sort of loud music - most likely the reason why she was speaking so loud.

“Been rough times around, eh?”
“Yes but… Chief - exactly `what' are you doing here at the brig area? Th-this is not the logistics deck, ma'am.”

“I heard we have a few guests onboard - right here - behind yah”, Deena giggled while putting the muzzle's shaft of her bolter shotgun upon her shoulder, “Turanics, a taiidan - once enemies, now friends! Gotta ask them some questions. Negotiation stuff, yeah.”

“Err. Sorry, Chief”, Sanrin replied to her and shrugged, “The captain and others already had a long conversation with these imprisoned people and I was told to hold guard for a while with Ebes. They're pretty exhausted right now… but, how do you know about these people so precisely?”


“Most of all”, the other operative asked, “What does a chief logistics officer have to do with them? Thought you were logistics, not surveil-”


The lively officer threw her hands up, “- Now, now. I have my ways *grins* - I don't have much time, people, sooooo, I'm afraid I'll just have to use my rank to get in, or? Heh-heh…”


Both operatives looked at each other. Obviously, they had no choice. Doing as said, the other operative gave the access code several times, attempting to get the sequence right while Sanrin explained Deena some security notifications.


“Ch-Chief, I really advise you to ask questions through the speakers from the interrogation room.”

“Owww - Nevermind that, Sanrin”, Deena replied and wove her hand at her.

The first access security door opened itself finally.


“Yeah, here - hold this for me while I'm in there, `kaaay?”, the bubbly officer said to the woman while tossing her shotgun, sidearm and small ammo-pouch at once to Sanrin who just barely able to catch them.

“Y-You are going in there unarmed?!”


“Ahh, I'll be alright. You two just wait here and - umm - just wait here.”

The strange logistics disappeared behind the closing access door.

“I heard she was a weird personality - but that she was this crazy…”



During the moment before, both half-sisters continuously spoke with each other at the centric large table as the other turanics rested upon the surrounding beds of the huge cell.

Surprisingly, the small clan of turanic men and women behind the two never had such comfortable beds for a dreadfully long time - none of them actually complained any further after the lights were dimmed. The end of battle was already countless hours away and yet, most of them still had complications trying to fall asleep.


The air conditioners quietly hummed.

Delophane hid the lower part of her face upon her arms; her officer cap in front of her on the table. The taiidan officer, while exhausted, still found no reason to lay down as she worried about the future. She shortly dusted off something from her uniform. Beii, who wore a grey tank top and a militaristic vest, still sat next to her with a bored glare.

<This ship has been quiet for many hours, don't you think, Beii?>
<Czass.>

<So… We're already light years away from the people we know…>, Delophane sighed and flicked the officer's cap in front of her gently. Despite her small clan being one of many groups that were merely persuaded and enslaved for myriads of tasks, there were still people among the taiidan-turanic nation she liked.

<*Hmpf* I still don't think this was a good idea, en-keii>, Beii said to her half-sister as she knocked her handcuffed rights upon the table again, <If I wanted to be locked up like this, I would have shot that one officer I hated back at `Curse' a year ago.>
After a long pause, Delophane suddenly giggled, <*smirks* I would believe you if didn't have a crush on him, Beii.>
<*Grumbles* That wasn't a crush, Delophane.>


<Is that so…? What then, hm?>

Astonishingly, the grey-eyed taiiranic looked away; the usual reaction of her half-sister trying to hide her blush. Delophane smiled shortly - but then frowned, <But I know what you mean, Beii. All of us been through so much trouble and … and now we end up in some cell with these unknown people called amajen…>

Beii Keljin; Half-sister of Delophane Vamaii, both daughters of a taiidan father but separate mothers. It was a common occurrence considering such `half-siblings' within the turanic-taiidan nation of `Curse' - also a normal cause due to the turanic ways of colonial breeding.
Alike Delophane, Beii carried a short militaristic hairstyle - colored dark red - and the common silvery eyes of turanics. Despite her being a leader for the remaining turanics, Beii was more of a loner and a quiet personality. Thinking back, Delophane began to wonder about things again. Her taiidan nation and that of the turanic was a really odd couple.


Forgetting about those days of famine, power struggles in the lines of leaderships and other events in their lives; both grew up and survived. To survive meant for them to serve the nations struggling within nebula known `Curse'. However, despite the various clans united under the same flag, such struggles also led to inner conflicts.

Sarcastically, one frequently recurring nightmare was the worst of all: The abandoned taiidan mothership that still possessed the vital technologies of survival such as regenerative fuel cells for the entire struggling fleet throughout `Curse'. Every visit to this place was a horrific one.

Delophane shook her head… her mind was drifting off.

Ironically, Beii and the remaining turanics within the room had disregards for harsh violence. They understood the military hardware, but it was the fact that they had more of a common sense than most of those lunatics serving throughout the nation they fled from. However, their future was still a mystery. In the line of self-defense and persuasion, they were forced to fire upon the `amajikeii'.

<I suppose we will be executed>, Beii suddenly remarked with a serious tone and crossed her arms again, <We killed these… amajen... and with the vaygr doctrine brothering with our nations - I seriously doubt these amajen will take a simple apology… and of course by the shadow of their affiliation with the kadeshikeii.>
<Don't say that! I am still hoping for the best, Beii. It does seem that they want to give us some sort of chance to explain ourselves… or… not?>

<Delophane. We were ready to die if all should go wrong - even you had such doubts that you nearly performed `jigaii'.>
<I was about to do it because -!... because…>, Delophane's voice went louder slightly, but she caught her voice before it disturbed the others - however, she ended her sentence at that point.

<I don't care about the amajen, Delophane, but your suicide attempt did…>, the roguish taiiranic hesitated to speak further. Surprisingly, her taiidan half-sister lowered her head upon her arms again and smiled inwardly.
Beii was never really the person who liked showing emotions but her worries did surprise Delophane yet again. Beii was indeed affected by Delophane despite only being her half-sister; but then there were thoughts of that amaji gunman who told her to stop and not to fear the future - as dark as it may seem.

Delophane nonetheless felt disturbing doubts about the amaji now as she flicked her cap one more time.


All the sudden, the access doors of the cell opened, revealing an unarmed amaji officer in a dark green uniform and long skirt who kept stumbled over the edge and floor railings due to her elegant uniformed shoes.


Noticing that some of the people resting and not noticing her appearance, Deena joyfully whispered, “Hey there. Oww… pretty dark in here… Oh, may I enter and come in?”

“…eh…”, Delophane pondered, “Czass… I mean…”, once again, she confused the languages.
“'Sauce'?”, Deena copycatted.

“Yes. Czass…”
“Saaaaawws?”
“Yes. Czass-”

That taiiranic on the side of the taiidan woman suddenly remarked with a lowered voice, “My en-keii means `yes'.”

“Ahhhhh… I get it now I was like, `what?' and you said, `sauce' and I was - like, `sauce' …”


“<I wonder what this is about now?>”, the taiidan officer asked herself and went through her hair.
“<Must be another interrogation attempt…>”, Beii proposed, but there was indeed something awkward going on.


“I may enter? Why, thank you two”, the bubbly officer said and entered the large cell, “Looks like I did a good choice giving you people one of our cozy `resorts', eh? Big room with lotsa privacy - so big and comfortable, you'd have doubts that it's an imprisonment cell and…”

That weird amajen officer kept blabbering further about many things as she approached them and took a seat on the other side of the table. Delophane dropped her shoulders while that person ahead of her spoke endlessly - it was already crazy enough that she was asked if that person were allowed to enter.


“To excuse my interruption, Amajen - but… Who are you of identity? What are you to intend?”, the taiidan woman dared to asked, hoping she pronounced the words right.

“And - huh? Oh, me - who I am?”, Deena replied and suddenly spoke in a heroic manner,” Oh, I am Deena Mae of Amaj, sister of Fenna Mae of Amaj - Chief Executive Logistics officer in service of the military authority in the pride of the Kiith Amaj - but enough about me!”

The amajen woman suddenly took off the headsets and laid them upon the table. Noise emitted from its small padded ear speakers.


“I am to not understand how you to know of us, Chief Lo-gis-tics”, the taiidan officer tried to pronounce her name right, however confusing the field of specialty with Deena's true name.

“How I know about you? Ah… ha-ha-ha… well, ehh - There are waaaaays, y'know…”, Deena blushed and giggled before pointing a stretched finger at certain places of miniature surveillance cameras, “Aside to me eavesdroppin' between you and my friends, I just wanted to inform you that I also have a bit of knowledge as of being a kiith advocate!”

“Ad-vo-cate? You happen to be such of this `ad-vo-cate' to deal with military law as of what Captain of Soban requires?”

“Sorta, my friend. I, err, didn't complete the degree for it - I flunked - buuuut that should be no problem. I still can help you out. Look, ladies. There are many things I want to know about you turan… err taiidans… all of you!”

“… To… understand…?”, Delophane tried to comply and scratched her head.
Beii quietly raised an eyebrow.

“Aside to kiithid differences between all of us, I'm sure we women have much in common! Let us share some things about us!”

The weird visitor seemed very excited about this meeting.

“To not… understand. I am taiidan. My en-keii of taiidan-turanic bloodkeii. You are of amajikeii… We are not to be of same, Miss Logistic.”


Deena spoke further, “But we are all still women - and there are men in your group here too! Look, you and I, we all are breathing the same air even though we are totally different people! Excuse my words, but I never met a `taiiranic' or ever talked to such turanic who happened not to be trying to kill me *giggles*.
And believe it or not, we even have the same bodies - ha ha! Y'know, I want to know more about you people. How life was with the men and women in that crazy cloudy star system - how you survived so long - love life, everything! Lifestyle - your survival - just everything. I've been on that taiidan mothership of yours <before we sorta bumped into something and sorta blew it up beyond oblivion> and I can say you people are remarkable! Not even our mothership… ehh, well, if you can call that colony ship of ours a mothership orbiting Amaji Prime was that HUUUGE! Ask me about anything, too, feel free with your curiousness. So, com' on - hit me!“


A moment of silence - Beii and Delophane looked at each other.



- Blood by Blood -
(narrative voice)
The Bentusi. A race of space-faring beings like no other. The enigmatic Bentusi Enclave excels beyond the galaxy and the reach of any other known race. As of being truly unbound, every being of the Bentusi are physically connected to their ships and only live among the stars, never bound to any planet or region of space; the body and soul of the Bentusi endlessly eavesdrops the galaxy's song.

A peaceful race, they are; never ending their seek for cultural interaction, trade and knowledge of the vast galaxy. Light years may separate nations and cultures but surviving beyond the legacy of the ancient Progenitors, the Bentusi endeavor trade and technology as a bridge of friendship among welcoming races. Throughout the last hundreds of year though, the Bentusi have become victim to foes that threatened their existence.

The foes… The first. Once it was the hiigaran ancestors who had greed for power and endured war against this race, who then failed and were exiled to the distant desert planet known as Kharak, soon home of their renamed `Kushan' race, where they would attain a journey to their true homeworld, Hiigara, to reborn as a nation of prosperity.

The second. The infectious biomechanical and enslaving foe known as `The Beast' threatened the existence of the Bentusi years after the return of the kushan race to Hiigaran. Many of the vast Bentusi nation fled and only a few remained within the galaxy to support a kiith known as the `Somtaaw' last but succeeding battle against the virulent foe.

The third. The nomadic Unification of Vaygr Crusades of the Eastern Fringe - serving Makaan, the Supreme Lord of the Vaygr; following the legacy of the Sajuuk and the Three Relic Hyperspace Cores. Though unable to retrieve one of these Cores from the Great Bentus, this bentusi flagship that dwelled among the galaxy's dangerous eye was eradicated by the unified Vaygr Crusade and thus was known to be the last existing Bentusi in the galaxy of that time.


However, young mind, a small number of lost Bentusi have returned to the galaxy when the Hiigaran-Vaygr War ended as due to Karan S'Jet's deep space beseeching plea and the inner galaxy's need of greater aid. Aftermaths of war always lead to an illness in many kinds - Recovery being the most difficult task as lives must seed and prosper again.

The remaining Bentusi Enclave reestablished trade routes throughout the inner galaxy, aiding those who are in need. As of today, the Bentusi continued amidst the legacy given by their precursors.

(end of narrative)


= Deadspace =

Though the hull of the battered vessel was still affected by the plasma, each of their entropic effects had dissipated over the last hours. Space's cold grip still had not extinguished the violent masses despite the time that brought all three to fade to dark green. By now, long lines of fog and smoke left a trail into open space along.

The breached hyperspace module, its exposed entrails and nacelles were already beyond the range of visibility but still detectable upon sensorial scans. Quietly surrounded by the galaxy's distant beauties of stars and nebulae, the battered `Vjel-Amaj' cruiser awaited an occurrence soon to happen among the vicinity.

Suddenly, an energetic breach between time and space occurred not far from the amaji vessel's dorsal upon an unusual arc.


“Tachyon radiation exceeding the scale! Hyperspace emerge imminent!”, an operative confirmed from rear side of the bridge.
The bridge echoed sounds of warning as Quan reported, “Bentusi mothership class signature detected! ”

“So. I guess the distress beacon really worked”, Orelis commented.

“- and I guess we're just on time…”, a familiar voice sounded from the same area.


Noticed by every member of the bridge, Hailynn and the adolescent kadeshi girl were spotted as both slowly made their way towards the bridge's center - step by step. Several operatives of the new shift who had not heard of her survival still could not believe their eyes while they followed each timed movement from the hindered hiigaran woman.
Those who knew of her survival noticed the same wrecked uniform and clothing - some even felt sorry for her as her looks were true evidence of her struggle for the sake of the entire ship.

As the two bypassed the sensory station heading to the small command center of the bridge, Hailynn and Aira were greeted by the Captain and Orelis - even operatives welcomed them loudly.
Sensing the emerging vessel appearing from hyperspace, Aira's arms once again embraced the sides of Hailynn's bruised hip as they all witnessed the golden yellow tachyon wavefront expanding and slipping across the arcs.


“…Whoa… Those Bentusi surely know how to show up”, Orelis commented again as the entire bridge crew witnessed the appearance of the bentusi ship. As for himself, he had seen this happen a few times, but each time was a breathtaking event.


During the occurrence, Quan shortly turned his view over to Kenta, who quietly frowned and looked downwards as the emerging vessel entered normal space.
When she raised her head, Kenta discovered all of the beautiful images she collected before becoming blurry and perforated due to the peaking tachyon radiation levels that flooded the cruiser's surrounding space. With each second passing by, the radiation merely eradicated and distorted the delicately captured images without scruple.

Kenta noticed Quan wanting to cheer her up, but she wove at him and gave thanks for his help. The hours of gathering these beautiful captures were at least more than just a pleasure despite not having the sufficient time to permanently develop them.

And there it stood; The bentusi leviathan, raging nearly three kilometers across the arc, shaped of a gigantic tuning fork shimmering in all tones of pure gold. A thriving moment as all eyes were thrilled with its majestic appearance, despite the discovery of the much larger vessel before.


It was the same vessel from where the `Vjel-Amaj' was christened before its transfer to serve the Kiith Amaj as a symbolic flagship. Again, memories filled the minds of many; the first day - the first impressions…

Doing a double finger snap, Orelis turned around towards one of the logistics officer, “Hey, where is Fenna?! We'll need a helmswoman very soon! <No offense, Hailynn. You're still in bad shape.>”
“<Tell me about it…>”


“Commander Orelis, sir?”, another female voice called from the side. It was Kelsea calling for his attention who hesitated to speak further. Her silence reminded him about something.

“Alright, Kelsea - but hold on, we'll still need you for the communication operation just a bit.”

“U-Understood.“


“<W hat you talking about?>”, Hailynn asked him from the side.
“<I don't know, but she seems to have interests in piloting this ship, Hailey. Can tell you about it later on.>”
“<If you say so...>”


Different chimes were suddenly audible.

At the same moment, Aira's psyche felt the presence of many unbound songs emitting throughout the bentusi vessel when the tachyon emissions began to vanish. So many beautiful sounds touched her frail soul that she somewhat feared them.
Heeding the noise beyond the majestic songs, Aira sensed myriads of voices channeling among the vicinity of the bentusi vessel; Voices speaking in a multitude of languages and what she could percept as Galactic Common - radio chatter, clicks, electronic signals, white noise - all of them - and even the most encrypted ones were clearly audible albeit not understanding the different languages.
Traders and entrepreneurs of many nations spoke with each other at the same time. Despite the noise activity being intensive, it was nowhere alike what she expressed during the hours of desperate terror trying to save `Kadesha's Ark' and its suffering fleet. The reminder of her suffering people led to awe again; sorrows that made her turn view towards the pack of stars upon the smallest clod of the galaxy's never ending sky. So many light years away… - headaches.

The unbound presences of the bentusi vessel slowly began to focus their interests upon her and the battered amaji cruiser. Within single moments, waves of invisible but noticeable scanning beams fondled and tickled upon her skin as they went upon each corner of the `Vjel-Amaj' simultaneously.


“Commanders, Captain”, Kelsea reported as she held her hand upon her headset, “Bentus Harborship `Primus' is hailing us over a bentusi frequency.”

“Music in my ears”, Orelis replied to her, “Return hail and maintain an uplink to our friends. Sooo… who's willing to do the talking?”
The group of surveillance operatives smiled.


“You first”, the wrecked hiigaran woman pointed at him whilst trying to speak with dry throat.

“*sigh* All right, all right.<Yeah, give the diplomacy job to the inappropriate guy…>”
“I will support you if needed, Commander Orelis”, the captain assured him.

“Channel uplink established and open.”


Everybody awaited the voice of the bentusi with great anxiousness.


“”Greetings… Wayfarers of Amaj…””, a deep soothing voice echoed over the bridge's speakers, “”We are the Bentusi `Primus'.””

“<Thank the gods of Kharak> The `Vjel-Amaj' greets you with pride and honor, Bentusi `Primus'”, Orelis replied, “This is Lieutenant Commander Orelis, currently… second-in-command of the `Vjel-Amaj'. Bentusi Primus, we are so very glad to see you”, his voice spoke in much greater tone of relief.

“”Souls of the `Vjel-Amaj', we have sought for your… wellbeing… for several planetary cycles of your homeworld. We sense great… dismay… upon you as your souls that sailed into the… deep.””


Looking over and across the bridge at some of the troubled faces that noticeably recalled the last days of terror, Orelis quietly rubbed his forehead as he hesitated to speak, unsure of where to start, “Y-Yes, Bentusi Primus. Dismay - I must apologize but I am not sure where to start with an explanation. Our mission was to extract a faction of hiigarans in distress at the edge of the M'randara Star System.
However, hostile forces forced us even deeper into the expanse… much deeper - and there was much dismay we confronted and discovered. We did not expect to undergo so much trouble. We've discovered many historical things during our journey but also depleted most of our supplies. We have documented as much as possible we would appreciate to share with you.”


As the crewmen and women stared upon the screens, several of them noticed a multitude of unknown vessels departing from several arcs of the Bentusi `Primus'. The Harborship indeed carried anchored ships of traders and many other races the Kiith Amaj never met since their foundation.


“”We understand. The Bentusi Enclave endured contact with the Kiith Amaj, sharing our knowledge of the star system. We… fear… this `world' you call M'randara. It is forbidden for our kind to enter its realm. The M'randara Star System is rich of treasury… but it will corrupt our souls… end our songs… We shall never become bound.
The Bentusi fears this world with great awe. An observer endured watch upon your souls until the cycle of day you vanished… Souls of `Vjel-Amaj', you honor the Bentusi with your return from the `World'…””

“Thank you again, Bentusi `Primus'. We have survived an ongoing war between two cultures - hence, barely. Our ship stressed itself too much that we were forced to eject our hyperspace module and nacelles. We apologize for the trouble we may have caused due to our distress beacon calling you to us - but our ship was crippled, we had no other choice.”

“”Souls of `Vjel-Amaj', it is the will of the Bentusi Enclave to ensure prosperity of the `Vjel-Amaj'. We, the Bentusi Primus, sense your distress and will return your souls to the Kiith Amaj. We sense your vessel has undergone severe hardships and that it has lost its heart of travelling the endless sea.
We will return you to your amaji Homeworld, Souls of the Amaj. This is our will. The Bentusi shares interests to the Kiith and the kadeshi child. *pause* The child - it was her voice we heed… A voice of great distress that brought fear to the Bentusi. We sense… differences… within the `Chosen One', Aira.””


Operatives cheered and astonished quietly as they heard the news that the Bentusi really were not only going to help but also bring the ship back to amaji space.

Orelis himself could not believe it either - It seemed as if Hailynn's plan of hitchhiking through the galaxy was going to work after all. However, noticing other unknown vessels departing from the Bentusi Harborship and engaging hyperjumps, he pondered, “I am - thankful - amazed, B-Bentusi Primus. But I must ask a question something. Bentusi Primus. You are a Harborship and… uhm… Your ship is known to reside strictly among trade routes across the regions of space. Aren't your guests, the representatives of other cultures, disgruntled about making such a… detour… to our position and our home planet - for us, amaji?”


“The sake of the `Vjel-Amaj' and the `child' excels beyond the need of the Bentusi and our… guests. It is our will following the legacy given from our precursors.”

Aira hid herself slightly behind Hailynn's side again as the others gave a short gaze upon her. Explainable for several amaji, the Bentusi must have detected the `Vjel-Amaj's distress when Aira witnessed the `death' of Hailynn Delixa.
Combining the facts, her scream was not only a physical but an outright frightening psychic and ethereal scream that was merely heard far beyond space - As far out it may sound, Aira's powerful outburst must have caused a great distortion that even scared the Bentusi.


“”The `child'… A… song… We sense it. It is true? The young soul has prospered within such cycles - She is no longer an entity… but the soul is… shattered…””


Wanting to enter the conversation, Hailynn laid her hand upon her communication unit but then noticed that her smashed radio unit was not upon her shoulder. Kelsea tossed her a handheld radio and reset it for the desired frequency through her console.

“*Clears throat* Bentusi Primus, this is Commander Hailynn Delixa, currently Superior Commander of the `Vjel-Amaj' and caretaker of Aira. We all have undergone severe hardships during our struggle for survival through the star system.
Bentusi, we have confronted a troubling situation between nations we would never have expected to meet within the M'randara Expanse. The hiigarans we rescued at first turned out to be in a peaceful relationship with vaygr defectors who no longer wished to serve any crusade - and that for a very long time. However, we were not only attacked by the true hostile vaygr crusade, we also discovered an ancient taiidan mothership, definitely older than a hiigaran century - and a kadeshi race that has flown… I mean, sailed, across the whole galaxy for a legacy to be unraveled and returned to the `Sea of Lost Sorrows', the distant homeworld of the Kadeshi.
However, Bentusi, the Kadeshi are not hostile as it is proven that Aira is part of their legacy - we do not know to explain this… but whatever it may be, the Kadeshi are in desperate need of kiithid support. The vaygr and the surviving faction of turanics and taiidans of the old empire have joined forces under the doctrine to eradicate the Kadeshi titan known as `Kadesha's Ark'. I… I…”


Hailynn spoke so long that she lost sense of what she was actually talking about. There was far too much that occurred that made it too difficult to explain in short words.


“”Hailynn of the `Vjel-Amaj', we are honored. Yes… Yes… A taiidan mothership. There are tales of confronting such wayfarers of that time, Hailynn of Amaj. Please… enlighten further.””

“There… there is too much that happened, Bentusi Primus. We all suffered greatly. Everything - Everybody. We sacrificed much and threw ourselves between the vaygr's hateful attacks for the sake of the kadeshi existence - which is why our ship also still is suffering under the effects of the plasma and other attacks. And -”, Hailynn suddenly paused as her attention was caught by the captain's waving hand, “E-Excuse me, Bentusi, may I ask you to please stand-by?”

“”Patience is our virtue. We await your return””, the deep enigmatic voice replied.

“I am sorry to interrupt your diplomatic dialog with the Bentusi, Commander Delixa”, the captain explained, “but I have an urgent request from our lead medical officer, Doctor Jonas. Due to the fact that I am no longer superior commander, I hold it for important to let you decide on this urgent request.”

“Yes, sir, thank you. Kelsea - could you please -?”


The young amaji operative already gave a hand signal that she was `on air' with Dr. Jonas just now, “<Not bad…> Ehm, here's Hailynn. Go ahead, Doctor.”


“”Commander! I apologize for interfering with whatever you are doing but this is serious! We have serious medical problem! Many of my patients are in critical status!””


Several operatives made shocked faces. It seemed as if the aftermath of the battles was still a serious threat.

“”My medical teams are exhausted and the need for blood and surgeries are exceeding our capacities. Blood donations are not enough, Commander, we need help and we need it now. I heard that the Bentusi have appeared and that you are negotiating with them right now.
Sorry, Commander, but this is urgent: If we want the casualties to avoid suffering exsanguinations - We will need to get our people to the Bentusi as soon as possible! I don't believe in miracles, but their medical capabilities are the only `miracles' that might succeed if we don't waste further time!””

As everybody listened, Hailynn shortly turned her view over to Orelis with a much troubled and serious gaze. Unexpectedly, tension within the bridge once again grew within a single moment.


“Bentusi, Commander Orelis here - I apologize for my harsh intervention but we have a serious situation going here! Despite our efforts in recovery, a moderate number of our crewmen are in danger of losing their lives due to the injuries and exceeded capacity of our medical teams. I must apologize for my harsh plea, but my crewmen are in desperate need of medical support!”


“”Do not fear, `Vjel-Amaj'. It is our will to endure life. Enter our ship. We await you and your tales with great interest. Please endure an enveloping of gravity upon the `Vjel-Amaj'. The Bentusi Primus will lead you to our soul.””

“Thank you! *finger snips*<Kelsea, your area!>”, Orelis ended his speech and pointed his hand upon the helm.

“Bentusi”, Hailynn called out lastly, “My crew is desperate need of blood - I assure you we will share all of our experiences, gathered information and discoveries with you once we are docked! We owe you our lives! I wish I knew a way to thank you…”


“”Ensure life - that is the Bentusi way. The bind with the `Vjel-Amaj' and its precious lives is what the Bentusi always seek. It is we who thanks you, souls of amaj. We look forward into meeting with you.””

“See you soon, Bentusi Primus, Hailynn Delixa of the `Vjel-Amaj' out!”

The amaji communication officer immediately disconnected her plug-in cables from the communication station albeit doing it clumsily and made her way to the helm of the bridge. It was noticeable that she was very nervous.
Fenna was nowhere around and all eyes stared upon her as practically everybody but Orelis did not know that she learned some very basic knowledge of navigation and helm skills just by observation - but on top of the eyes staring upon her, lives were counting on her too.

Hailynn's face turned back upon radio unit she held in her hand,

“<Doctor - can you still hear me>?!”
“”Yes, Commander!””

The wrecked hiigaran paused shortly. Sore pain was unraveling itself upon her again - There seem to be no end to the pain.


“<Okay, hold on and listen, Doctor!> Everybody! This is serious! We've got endangered lives - if we don't do anything soon, they will not make it - so listen up! While we get the ship towed into the Bentusi Harborship, I want a relocation operation to be conducted! Doctor, have all critical patients to be stabilized the best you can so our logistic operatives can conduct their relocation to the airlocks!”

“”<Understood, Commander.>””

“Logistics, get every free hand of operatives you can get! We will be needing clear coordination of the casualties - and get Chief Deena on the job - ASAP!”, Orelis continued and clapped his hands loudly, getting the attention of everybody and waking those who seemed drowsy.

The status lighting of the bridge and those throughout the ship illuminated the medical distress symbols, which alarmed the rest of the crew that a medical situation called all hands to report to duty. All logistic operatives immediately proceeded with the desperate task.


“Commander Delixa, ma'am?! I await your instructions!”


Turning her view over to the helm, Hailynn spotted Kelsea already seated and ready for her guidance. It was much of a surprise to see Kelsea at the helm.
Though it still had to be proven if she was worthy of being a novice pilot, it was clear that she was a multitalented operative who was not only limited to communicative duties, but who also could maintain the sensory and now the helm. Returning back to her senses, Hailynn had to understand that the stress was not over.


“All right, Kelsea. I have no idea who much you know about navigation but we have no time for going through the tutorial. Just do as I say. In order to tow us in, we must align all of our ship's gravity field units with an alternating negative impulse frequency of the bentusi vessel!”

“R…R-right…!”, the operative stuttered, not having the slightest clue what she actually meant with the technobabble - clearly have zero academic knowledge in the field of `wantum physics'.


After several moments, the `Vjel-Amaj' came to life again, soon to be towed towards the bentusi vessel's inner side. With the inertial stabilizers being only moderately operational, everybody felt the slight motions and effects of gravity working on them and the ship as it was towed.

Hailynn and her crew desperately continued their efforts with the docking and relocation operation.

As the crippled amaji cruiser was carried towards the interior side of the beautiful Harborship, all eyes were amazed by this inner world and the numbers of exotic alien vessels stations everywhere beyond the docks.

For a change, it was a welcomed sighting since everybody still had the frightening recall of floating corpses and other signs of death in mind when they confronted the derelict taiidan mothership. Ships of all sizes and shapes were docked upon the surrounding areas, freighters and other vessel slowly moved along - separate crewmembers even spotted recognizable ones… also those of… pirates.
However, punisher pods and ships of the bentusi drifted throughout the interior of this lively region, quietly policing all segments. The scenery was simply remarkable as the beauty within this biomechanical wonder never ended - but at last, the crew was now truly ensured of their safety…


- Reunion Troubles -


= Main Airlock Segment - Logistics deck, Portside =


All status lights throughout the ship shifted from red to blue. Public announcements were held as everybody continued with their tasks. Like upon many of such airlock segments latched upon the `Vjel-Amaj', the main airlock segment was connected with the biomechanical tube that led to the interior atmosphere port of bentusi vessel.
These tubular connectors were huge and wide, offering much space for three decks to transfer anything from goods to people from each. After thirty minutes of chaotic procedures and stress, the last group critical patients were brought across the tubular footbridge to receive medical care from the bentusi side.

As time went by, operatives, technicians and other supporters from the hiigaran-vaygr side helped out bringing things and low priority patients from the ship along with equipment.


“*Wheeeeeeewwww* Looks like I did it again - Mission: Accomplished!”, Deena complimented to herself while waving a large flat data pad like a fan to cool herself down and continued to listen to the music coming from the side of her headset - despite the actually chaotic procedure on the logistics side.

Other operatives wondered about her strange dancing and air guitar movements as they went past her. Those who knew her knew that she was most likely doing a victory dance again albeit actually still being on duty.

Shortly after her short awkward movements, other exhausted logistics operatives met up with her to report in and receive new orders, but she only waved at them, showing that she did not have any other tasks for them. Having luck, they could finally take a break and departed from her.

The bubbly logistics officer checked the watch upon her wrist, “Mmhhmm, everybody running late or what? What takin' them so long?”, she asked herself and checked the data pad again. Obviously, Deena was up to something again.


“Deeeeenaaaaaa!”, a familiar voice yelled from far behind.
“Oh?”

Noticing the voice, Deena finally spotted one of persons she expected - Her twin sister, Fenna. The blond `version' of Deena wore a new clean technical operative schemed in khaki colors with rolled-up sleeves, a ponytail and the obligatory radio unit upon her left shoulder. A single sweat pearl appeared upon the side of Deena's head; Fenna was a bit too earlier… uh oh.
Fenna made big angry steps as she approached Deena, “I should've known it was you again!”, she yelled at her.


“Ha - hey, there, my sister. So, like, err, how's life?”, she replied with a dodgy attempt of changing the inevitable topic already.
“Don't come to me with that crap! I know it was your idea of faking Orelis' call across the whole damn ship, Deena!”


Once again, Deena pulled a humorous prank on her sister. There was deeper sense about it though. Fenna now stood face-to-face with her.


“ORELIS is going to KILL ME when he figures out where I've been! I was supposed to be on duty at the bridge and you made me go from one corner of the ship to another! I even had to go through DECK FIVE! The stunk-up deck was proof that you were behind all of this!”

“Now, now, Fenny, you should have actually been awake a lot earlier for duty, eh?”, Deena parried her with words. She did not even know if it was true but when her sister paused and retreated her head, she thanked the gods, “Oohhh… you really were still asleep?! <*whew*>”
“Da... SHUT UP! It was a stressful… I had to get some… oh, frell with it!”


Deena still had the masterplan in mind. For sure, Fenna was way too exhausted back then after the ship was free from terror and it also seemed that she did not have the chance to talk to him. This is going to be excellent…

“Umm, Denna, why are you giggling?!”
“Heh-heh- uuh, nothin'. I was just thinking about something.”

“And what is that noise coming from your headset?! Is that music?!”
“Yeah, in fact it is, Fenna! Some `Metal Heavy' music - from some weird turanic group called `Slipknawt' - I found it in that taiidan interceptor when I browsed through it someday ago. I had a great talk with our taiidan-backslash-turanic prisoners at the brig and they told me about a lot of stuff. They're great people, Fenna - You've got to meet them some time!”


“…W-what…?! Are… Are you kidding me?! Those frakkers tried to kill us and you -?!”, Fenna argued back at Deena but then paused, only to lay her hands upon her forehead.
“They're fine people, hey, hold this for me will you”, Deena replied to her and handed her officer's jacket to Fenna for an unknown reason - her forearms now visible.


“What's this about?”


Deena quietly fiddled with one of the sealed containers until she figured how to open it. After removing its cap, both looked inside and spotted several things. Curious as Deena was, she lowered her arm inside of the container - then suddenly pulled her arm out as it was covered by a dark green substance riddled with many disgusting biomechanical tissues.


“!”
“Oh my gods! B-b…Beast fluid! AAhhhhhzzhhzzz!”, Deena shouted at Fenna and began to make sick sounds as if she was being assimilated along with her arm doing uncontrollable awkward movements.


Fenna jumped and shriek, “OH MY GODS! HELP - SOMEBODY HELP!”


“UUUhhhzhhzhzahhaaa….hahahahahahaha- ---ahahahahhaa *snorts with laughter*! Nothing happened, hi-hi. No worries, Fenna-chan. This “Beast” liquid is quite some valuable stuff!”, Deena explained as she wiped her arm with a towel - obviously, she planned this prank too, “Really great stuff. From cleaning rusted parts to some other crazy stuff you can do with it. I knew this stuff was in here since all of these crates had that stuff inside. It's harmless and dead - so no worries, ha!”


Fenna remained paralyzed with her mouth open. The blond sibling nearly had a heart attack. She was afraid of practically everything. After cleaning her arm, Deena grabbed the jacket from her and put it on again.


“Hello…”, another voice called from behind.
The mirroring sisters turned themselves around at the same time and recognized a small group of familiar faces. Hailynn, Aira, Orelis and other operatives arrived at the main airlock segment of the deck - finally. Fenna shrieked inwardly as she spotted them.

“Helmswoman -”, Orelis suddenly asked, “Can you tell me where the frell you've been?”


The pale Fenna tried to find words; her view constantly shifting back and forth between Deena and Orelis.

“Let's not worry about that, Orelis. We made it to the Bentusi”, Hailynn said to him and limped another step further, “Chief Deena, were there any complications… losses?”


The bubbly officer suddenly raised a thumb-up at her with a victoriously vicious smile, “Nothing at all, my Krin'sa! All our critical peeps are A-Okay and are being treated by the bentusi right now. If I may say, it's good to see yah, ma'am! Thought you were a goner…”

“Same here…”, the hiigaran replied quietly and looked upon wrecked self, “same here *sigh*.”

“Thank goodness”, one of the accompanying operatives mentioned.
“Aye.”


"Hailynn! You here, too?!”, another voice called.
“Huh?”


The number of coincidental appearances seemed to never end. It was Velle, a support operative helping others out. Shortly departing from the others, the slightly velvet-haired amaji immediately jogged over to the injured hiigaran and hugged her.

Probably another overzealous operative just happy to the heroic commander still alive many assumed... but Deena sensed something else - more than what meets the eye. Unknown for others, Deena noticed the long hug and that specific sign of relief as she held Hailynn in arms… or was it just satisfactory her Velle that Hailynn was alive.


Deena eyes suddenly looked beyond Fenna's shoulder and spotted a specific person among the groups of injured people about to make their way across the wide tubular footbridge. Ooow, this is going to be excellent!, her eyes sparkled.

Taking a deep breath, Deena suddenly yelled, “Ooooh, Hi there…!”, catching all attention of her surroundings, “RAY! Over heeeere, big guy!”


Fenna's eyes widened as Ray slowly approached the group the side. While not seriously injured as Hailynn, the swarthy vaygr did show signs of fracturing injuries he sustained, most likely when his fighter was rendered immobile after the failed bomb run operation. He did show sign of injury nonetheless and still wore his heavy black-red flight suit and masked that covered his most of his face - some of the operatives actually wondered if he was going hop on a fighter just here and now.
Ray did not react to Fenna but focused his view upon the wrecked hiigaran.


“Lord of Command.”
“Warrior Ray'. How are your injuries?”
“They are irrelevant, my lord of command. I am ready. Do you wish to perform my execution now?”

Nearly everybody who heard his shockingly direct question, but Hailynn, suddenly threw startled and astonished faces.


“No!”, Aira suddenly shouted surprisingly.
Now it was Aira who surprised everybody. The frail adolescent girl rushed over towards his side and embraced his hip. For a short moment, Aira began speak in her kadeshi language with galactic-common gibberish again.


Hailynn looked up at him after Aira ended her plea to her, “Oh, I will execute you, warrior”, her pause once again scared everybody, “…Some day… Ray… Some day…”
“When?”


“It is I who will decide when, Ray. Until then, you will serve under my command as everybody else.”


Knowing he should actually keep out of this, Orelis suddenly excused himself for budding and pulled Hailynn to the side in order to speak with her privately, “<Whoa - wait, Hailey. I know this is none of my business… but you're not going to kill him.>”


“<You heard right, Orelis. I'll kill him… some day…>”, she replied to him with a firm voice and made a long pause.


Suddenly… and without warning, both corners of their mouths slowly began to move upwards... further… until they both formed a smile. Separate others dropped their shoulders - They all were fooled by Hailynn.


“<Naw… nooo… don't tell me… you…>”

Hailynn nodded.


Orelis rubbed his forehead, “<You goddamn… 1:0 for you, Hailey. Pah, whose counting actually.>”

By now, everybody understood that Hailynn fooled Ray who was assured that Hailynn would execute him as that was the vaygr way considering his defection from the crusade to the amaji kiith. However, nobody expected such a hideous stalemate by Hailynn that even caught Ray offguard.

Hailynn made sure that she was indeed going to execute him some day - but as she said, it was going to be… some day.


“Lord of Command. I must protest.”

“I don't care. Right now, Ray, I wish you to carry on with your life for now. I will pick the day, don't worry”, unfortunately, Hailynn could no longer hold her seriousness - her face revealed a confessing smile.

“B-but…”, Ray's eyes pinched slightly together, “By… your… command.”


Deena smiled. Here. We. Go… and took a subtle step backwards as if she knew a verbal barrage was about to occur. Even Aira cowered away from him, back to Hailynn's left side - something was about to happen.


“'By your command - Lord of command' - YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME, RAY!”, Fenna suddenly burst.
“…”


“You… goddamn VAYGR punk! What is this?! Acting like I'm air?! What was all that shit about BACK THEN?!”, the amaji pilot yelled at him with hasted words and as she spoke, she periodically knocked the lower side of her fist against the chest of his suit, “You can't be serious, only worrying about when Hailynn can kill you?! We struggled our asses through warzones and so much slaughtering - Frakk, I brought this ship across a friggin' war and back just to get to you to safety a-and… and…”, tears filled Fenna's eyes, “… and I EVEN CONFESSED MY LOVE TO YOU! - ”

“I… had to do what I was destined to, Fenna of Amaj. I am expendable.”
“DON'T GIVE ME THAT `EXPENDABLE' SHIT!!!”, she barked at him.


To the surprise of everybody who noticed the shouting, Fenna had the upper hand against his tall vaygr he could not withstand verbally.


Suddenly, Orelis who stood in the background of this argument with the other slapped the side of his forehead - but it was not only about this argument, it was about who he just recognized,

“<Oh frakk, no, good gracious gods - aww no!>”


As if bad timing never gave a break. Orelis' eyes crossed path with a much feared person who was within the group of injured people who rested upon beds, transported by supporting operatives, medical associates and Doctor Jonas.


“Heyah, Orelis, how's - Whaaaaaaaaahhhht?! RAY?! That you?!”, the strongly accented of a familiar woman yelled now.
Everybody immediately spotted the swarthy green-eyed woman - the manaani tempest.

“<Holy frakk, Hailynn… It's Kaydaana…>”

“<At least she's alive…>”

Despite being mummified by bandages like Hailynn along with a head-bandage over the forehead, Kaydaana's transport featured infusions - but that did not stop the manaani from getting up from the bed with her patient overalls.


“I'm talkin' to yah, Ray!”, Kaydaana tried to approach them but was held back by Dr. Jonas and two other associates - actually risking their lives, jokingly. Unfortunately, Kaydaana was not able to get closer.
“Waaah! Git off meh, fools!”, the four fought with each other; three of them trying to tackle the injured manaani woman who still revealed inner strengths. Knowing how such person, especially such person, could unleash strengths, Jonas immediately called for others to bring a treatment to calm her down.


“All this time *sobs* through…”, Fenna sniffed many times as emotions for Ray went through her,” I've been through so much crap in my life! I've been fooled left and right - even by my own sister! And I even made a fool out of myself confessing my love to a VAYGR! We all - even I - threw ourselves back into fire just one more time get the man back who we gained trust to! I… I-I should have known I was only fooling myself…! *sobs*”

“Fenna…”, his baritone voice replied but he did not know what to say other than staring down upon the whimsy young amaji woman who suddenly looked up at him with a face full of tears.


“If you want - GO AHEAD, expend your life! Get executed! Do whatever! I guess my love confession can't convince you - oh so heroic vaygr…!”, Fenna's words were so harsh that she even burst into more tears and ran off; not to mention how embarrassing it was for her.

Everybody looked back at the tall vaygr who stood there. There was a slight moment where everybody thought that he did not care, but wait… there was reaction of Ray that everybody oversaw. His arms, they were up - but why?


He did care!…

The common sense however told the others that he simply was a vaygr warrior. While his devotion to the `vaygr way' was frightening and insulting for Fenna, her feelings made her forget that there was no way who could know how he was to respond, especially to a woman's feeling - not even the emotional considerate amaji.


Deena suddenly approached Ray's side and… *slap!*


Everybody foresaw the incoming slapping reaction from Deena, but her palm landed upon a totally different spot of Ray rather than his face - she could not reach it anyways. The momentum of her swing left his buttock, “Well - Get-bloody-going, silly boy! You might be able to catch up on her.”


Awkward views stared upon the two… but surprisingly, Ray suddenly made a heavy step. Although he was injured, his next few limping steps gained slightly on speed. It was astonishing. Ray was affected by Fenna's words after all and although being lost in a world of emotions, it was Deena who gave him the love tap to chase the girl.


After observing everything that happened between Fenna and Ray, the tackling fight with Kaydaana against the others ended abruptly at the same moment another medical associate finally brought an injection gun filled with the sedating fluid that could even calm a wild orthog bull. Jonas wove at the associate to wait a moment. The manaani was simply suddenly mellow.


Quietly and without any resistance, Kaydaana quietly climbed upon the transport bed again - much to the surprise of the associates and Dr. Jonas who shrugged at them. However, Kaydaana noticed that the doctor spotted Hailynn and sensed that he was insisting to talk to her.

Just before he was able to walk off, Kaydaana's grip pulled his medical coat, wanting him to come closer and so she could whisper him something into his ears:


“<Yer still underlying the physicians confiden..confi- discretion, dawk… No-word-to-Hailynn-about-`it'…>”


Jonas lifted his head with a troubled face.
She dropped her head and back gently upon the bed's pillow and arrogantly wove the medical associates to push her further along with the group for bentusi medical care, lastly shouting, “- I'm outta here - and it's good to see yah alive, old lady…!”


Hailynn quietly wove back and felt a stinging pain upon her hip. While Aira was on the left side, it was Velle's arm that tightened slightly upon her waist, unintentionally causing much pain on that side.
Obviously, these `love woes' between Fenna and Ray affected Velle as well.

Ha! I knew you were lookin' for somebody…!, the chief logistics officer thought. Nothing could elude Deena's eyes as she was the only one who noticed Velle's arm around Hailynn's hip - and it was not alike Aira's fretful hug. it was totally clear: Velle had a crush on Hailynn!
Oww, the joy. Even more gossip to spread!


The head of the chief logistics officer began to rock slightly as it heard the music still banging from the side of her ear.


“Wow…”, Orelis commented as he and the others still stared behind the vaygr who disappeared around the corner, “*sigh* Alright. That's it. Hailynn, I'm gone. I've got to eat something. Who's coming with me?”


He was fed up with all that was happening. Other operatives raised their hands.


Assured that nobody noticed her closeness to Hailynn, Velle silently slipped her arm away from her and wove her goodbye silently. Hailynn quietly wove back, “All right, Orelis. The bentusi ambassador is still awaiting me.”

“Yes, Commander Hailynn”, Doctor Jonas noticed to her as he approached them, “I would like to speak to him too about Aira's condition. I would like to speak with you, too, in person… but we will have to delay that.”
“…Is it an important matter you wish to speak with me about?”

Jonas short-lived troubling pause was noticeable, “N-no. We should take care of Aira first. The girl has priority. Let us not delay that. And while we are at it, you should actually attain bentusi medical as well.”


“First things first.”

“Very well... We better get going.”

Bidding farewell to the others, Hailynn, the doctor and Aira departed from Deena and the separate few operatives remaining. Walking down the lane, the group soon disappeared among the numbers of people heading along the tubular biomechanical footbridge.

“Well, that was something, huh?”, somebody commented.
“Yeah - oohhhohoh yeah.”

 

 

***

After the long walk through the living tubular footbridge, Aira, her two accompanying friends and separate groups of amaji crewmen bypassed the final segment of the biomechanical footbridge filled with cold, harmless decontaminating antibacterial gases before entering the crossing entry point to the trading hub. Despite the calamity within the girl's mind, it was the first appearance of the bentusi's inner world that soothed her pain as the vast region reflected upon her velvet eyes. The chimes of bentusi song continuously surrounded her.


So many lights of many colors sparked and shimmered throughout the farthest reach of her view; even the countless panels with moving indistinguishable digital symbols of foreign stock exchanges left her in astonishment. Looking upon the floor, the girl noticed that she still walked around with dirty bare feet as she felt coldness and vibrations emitting from it.


The crossing itself was the true entry point into this inner world. Taking rear views to both sides, one could spot other ships of various sizes parked upon the port, either quietly slumbering or departing. While this vast breathtaking view would stun an observer with awe, the clatter of echoing foreign voices, announcements and other things would soon catch one's attention, leading eye and ear to other side revealing the separately humongous decks of trading hubs. Accompanying the eye-catching shimmering colors, the sound of calm foreign music would harmonize with one's mind, inviting any being into its world; its air free from the terrors of the past.


Alike Aira, Hailynn and the other amaji people remained startled as their eyes met with the inner world. The docking ports and huge trading hubs of the Bentusi Harborship were thriving with myriads of cultures from across the entire galaxy. So many groups of races, factions, nations and bloodlines from beyond the Hiigaran Empire- far too many for both eyes and ears to distinguish from afar; traders, entrepreneurs, miners, scientists, diplomats… the list went on - none of amaji dared to wonder of what technologies or riches they traded with… and this was just the zone of carbon-based beings who required oxygen-nitrogen atmospheres.


Ironically, the orbit of Amaji Prime also possessed such thriving trade ships docked at the Hub among the idling colony fleet, if not one of the most lucrative ones in hiigaran space - but none of these could ever reach the capacity of what the Bentusi Enclave had offered; the Bentusi surpassed all cultures of the galaxy considering ultimate trade. Objects of all kinds hovered in harmony with the gravity-antigravity fields throughout the region. The ship's inner world was full of structures raging both from the floor and the metallic sky like hollow stalagmites and stalactites made by technological hands.

Despite all the beauties and amazement, Hailynn merely held her breath for a much different reason; pirates… pirates everywhere! Even distinct ones of turanic heritage… The wrecked hiigaran staggered as her eyes recognized several small groups of them throughout the active vicinity. Inner fears merely clenched her throat. It did not even take a split second until imminent readiness flew through her veins.

Unfortunately, due to her physical status, Hailynn remained paralyzed. Noticing her unease, Dr. Jonas shortly laid his hand upon her shoulder, gently attempting to calm her down. Jonas knew that what she was thinking of.

Having the Bentusi Enclave attempting spread neutrality through peaceful trade throughout the galaxy, their ships also acted as terrain of neutrality for diplomatic negotiations. Evoking peace among conflicting cultures belonged to one of their many their virtues. The welcoming hand of the Bentusi however still occasionally welcomed hostile factions who for instance may have caused piracy but still have done some sort of good deeds.

Hailynn slowly calmed down again as she began to understand that neither she nor her fellow crewmen were in danger. The entire Harborship was a demilitarized zone; hostile interactions and weapons of any kind were strictly prohibited - and the Bentusi had no regards for any being that would void their peaceful will.

Noticing movement at the edge of her right eye, she spotted a pair of peacekeeping sentries passing along the sides of the traders. Surprisingly, the bentusi peacekeepers differed much among each other. Hailynn was not able distinguish any further detail with her right eye but noticed that separate patrolling groups consisted of unarmed humanoids and so-called `ambassador' entities in encounter suits; biomechanical androids , in short `bioroids', of the Bentusi carrying heavy silvery mantles. Clearly, none of the pirates would want to mess with these superior beings.


Nonetheless, it was that cold shiver down Hailynn's spine that still kept her full of awareness.

“Naji?”

Aira's fragile voice awoke the hiigaran woman from her mistrust. To Hailynn's surprise, it was Aira who made the first few steps ahead, wanting to approach this inner beauty of technology, trade and prospering peace. The kadeshi girl made a short notice with her hand, showing that the bentusi ambassador and three medical entities awaited them. The tall bioroid wearing the bulky encounter suit patiently waited for their approach.


Hailynn took a deep breath but had to smile shortly as she looked upon the kadeshi youth staring back at her. It only had been three months ago since the Vjel-Amaj was upon this bentusi vessel before and for some silly reason, it was Hailynn who had fret and forgetfulness instead of Aira. Reaching out, Hailynn's hand met Aira's who welcomed her and the doctor to approach the bentusi ambassador.


- Filthy -

Nervous soft pats upon her shoulder catches her attention as she pauses from speaking into her shoulder-mounted transceiver.
“Huh?”
“Serviceman J.G. Rico re-reporting back for duty, Ch-Chief Deena”, a young and nervous male operative stuttered to her as he saluted.
“Ahh, Rico - Heya, where've you been?!”, Deena joyfully remarked after turning around.

Like many operatives of the crew, Rico was a young enlisted operative with the lowest rank in service of logistics - Serviceman, Junior Grade. The young man held greatest respect for every superior officer, but unfortunately, his overactive respect for women always led to nervous reactions.
Deena was still upon the thriving logistics deck relocating damaged equipment and other things.


“Umm, we've finished the list of orders, m-ma'am, just like you ordered. The other teams are taking care of relocation of scrap heap circuit... stuff. A-Anyways, one of them told me to report back to you, Chief.”

“Hey there, tough guy”, Deena replied and suddenly pushed his straight hand down that still saluted upon his forehead, “Call me Deena, got it?”, she demanded to him friendly.

“Okay…”


The surrounding area was still active with logistic teams moving things around.

The bubbly logistics officer suddenly lifted her head and shortly spoke into her transceiver unit again, “What?! What?! You are talkin' - wait, what?!”, she repeatedly said.

The voice of the person that spoke to her over the comm frequently echoed gibberish, foremost caused by chronologically overlapping replies mixing up with each other.

“*Awww* Should've known…”
“What's wrong, ma'am?”

“We're already in hyperspace again - prolly surfing on a bentusi tachyon wavefront right now.”
“What? The Harborship is in hyperspace already?!”, Rico asked with a surprised voice, “None of us back there heard or felt anything!”

“Yeah, we're already on our way back home. Anyways, must be one of those time lapse interferences again. I'm sure our communication guys will take care of that issue soon enough - oh well… *clickclick*”, she commented and hooked the unit back upon her shoulder, “Gossip's gonna have to wait, eh? So, Rico, tell me, how was it?”

“The last days were v-very… exciting - crazy, ma'am, lots of shooting and being shot at... and -”
“No no, Rico, I meant how it was hanging around in that logistics team I put you in. Had some fun with…?”, her head approached him slightly with curiosity.


Rico rubbed his forehead. No wonder his recent team was full of female operatives, “N-nothing really to report, my Chief - err ma'am... Deena, Deena. Nevermind that, ma'am, I am here for my next task.”
“Ah, don't worry about any tasks, trainee. Relaaaax - Come with me”, Deena replied and wove him to follow her.

“W-Where are we going?”
“If I can't spread the newest gossip over comm, I'll bring it on foot - eh. Ha-ha, I mean, logistics stuff *nervous waving*”

“Yes, Chief. Speaking of that, I have several questions about the logistics service field.”
“I thought so. I'd love to show you the wonderful world of logistics! Go ahead, hit me!”


This woman surely was strange; the way she swung the amaji shotgun around as she walked was much of something to be worried about.


Rico asked himself at first why she still ran around with a gun, but instead, he decided to ask about something else, “Aye. I was wondering. When the Vjel-Amaj engaged this operation, I've noticed that our storages lacked in nearly all fields when I consulted several inventory check-ups, ma'am.”
Reacting to his words, Deena slowly looked over to him as he followed her, “Oh… What did… you find out?”


“Nearly all fields of logistic supplies… umm… mechanical, fuelling, ordnance… Uh, yeah, how were we able to actually receive clearance and depart into deep space - especially with such low food storage levels, ma'am? I mean, even with rationing and cryo-shifts, it would only have lasted a maximum of two months, and that just barely. I'm surprised the guys of the galley haven't noticed anything. I thought amaji navy regulations did not allow a vessel to depart unless having a minimal storage of eight months in various sorts of food supply and -”


Along with Deena's shriek, the logistics officer suddenly threw herself behind him, grappling him and his mouth before any further wording left his mouth. Rico was held tightly, unable to move or say another word.


“Psssssssst! Gods… pssst!”, she quickly whispered him with a very nervous smile having closed teeth, “Don't-tell-anybody-about-it! There are some duties a… logistics officer… have to take care of when in shortage of… financial capacities, mate. But not only that! It was going to be our first real adventure that could have been aborted, y'know… I had to do something - Heh-heh-heh… hoo boy… Alright, got my drift?”
Luckily, nobody else heard his words due to the loud surrounding activity.

“*mhh-hmm*”, he nervously nodded as he saw Deena's shotgun unintentionally held next to his head.

Gods… What have I done to our ship?

Deep sorrows and guilt filled Hailynn's mind when she made a short glimpse over her shoulder. She knew the ship went through serious trouble and punishment, but never had she expected the Vjel-Amaj to be so battered. Ignoring the minor smoke trails emerging from the other side, damages but predominantly marks of all kinds were tattooed upon every arc; most likely caused by ion beams and violent impacts of explosions that burned upon the armor…

And yet, the vessel was still alive, quietly levitating a meter or two back and forth in random directions. Remote bentusi droids already conducted repairs and maintenance.


Returning her view to what lies ahead of her, both Hailynn and Dr. Jonas greeted the bentusi ambassador entity and the medical units behind. The patient biomechanical but sentient diplomatic servant of the bentusi stood over two meters tall. The head only revealed a single mechanical sensor.

Recognizable, the ambassador wore thick hulks of technical components upon its shoulder, carrying another set of a heavy mantle over the encounter suit that already its concealed body. Simple for any bound being, each entity reflected the technological brilliance of the bentusi. The ambassador entity also represented the voice of the combined bentusi minds.


After a short friendly introduction, the doctor bowed his head respectfully before speaking, “Ambassador. I must excuse my repeating urge, but I am afraid that Aira is in desperate need of your superior medical attention. The girl has suffered both psychological and physical injuries of which I am unable to treat due to the fact that I am a medical physician, not a… xeno… neurologist of such. The poor girl has suffered so much… I beseech you for immediate attendance.”

His short glance over to Hailynn reminded her of what she had done. Ashamed of her deed, Hailynn's hand drifted across her face in disgrace. Her bandaged right hand… It was the same one that viciously slapped the girl's face. Hailynn felt the slightly numb region of palm hidden among all injuries she received thereafter. Jonas must have still had disgruntled feelings about it.


“We concur”, the voice of the ambassador replied to them.
The ambassador's head moved slightly to the side and followed the movement of the medical entity units approaching the kadeshi girl. Aira suddenly arose from the floor; an invisible alternating field carried her light body over to the medical units. For this brief moment, Jonas assumed that her micro-engrafted components spread upon her bones and body reacted to the specific field of magnetism.


The girl threw a worried face over to Hailynn, but the Hiigaran woman nodded to her, showing her that everything would be alright - She only needed to have no fears.


“Doctor…”
“Yes, Commander?”

“I want you to follow the bentusi medics. Unless you do not require some time of rest, I would like you to stay with her. I have some things to talk about with the ambassador and therefore won't be able to be with Aira for a while. Could you...?”
Jonas nodded several times, “I can't rest now, Hailynn. Aside to the girl, some of my patients actually have minor biological hazards they took from the derelict mothership. I must make sure we get the appropriate supplies of vaccination fluids.”

“Thank you.”


Aira stared at Hailynn as she quietly levitated in front of the medical unit. That long silence again… Waving at Aira, the doctor and the medical units, Hailynn bid Aira to get well soon as they departed from them, certainly heading one of the many medical facilities throughout the bentusi vessel. The hiigaran woman could only guess that several mysterious ways of surgery and medical insights awaited the girl - but it was for her good. Hailynn calmed herself further down; The girl was finally in better hands.

“You seem disturbed… Krin'sa?”, the ambassador's voice suddenly hollowed.
Hailynn seem astound, “… H-how did you…?”; looking upon her wrecked uniform, the injured hiigaran spotted the somewhat mangled symbol that once represented the Krin'sa insignia.
“The Bentusi endlessly endeavors to learn from cultures and their customs, Krin'sa Delixa.”, the being replied. Indeed, it was a Bentusi effort to learn all about cultures' customs and structures.


“Ambassador, please. I am not worthy of any titles. Please refer to me as Hailynn.”

“We shall respect your decision. Hailynn…”

A long pause occurred as both listened to the surroundings. Hailynn was shortly distracted by the views of a group that stood further away; one of the pirates recognizing her messed-up military uniform and other hints of her affiliation with the small amaji federation.


“I-I am sorry, ambassador. It… It is just that my crew and I… We have barely survived atrocities throughout that expanse”, her tremulous voice spoke, ” As I promised, I wish to share all my knowledge and experiences with you.”


“The souls of the Vjel-Amaj has suffered greatly, Hailynn of Amaj. We sense… fears… confrontations with forgotten fates. Hailynn of Amaj, we, the Bentusi, wish to learn of your tales. Would you care for a walk while you share your tale?”
Another surprise; The bentusi entity even knew of common lingual expressions.


The trading decks offered much to discover as well as space for a walk. A walk would surely do her good. Knowing that her tales of the frightening adventure, her crew's treatment and the flight to Amaji Prime would take much time in account, Hailynn concurred and began to take slow steps alongside with the bentusi ambassador who merely hovered ghostly over the floor.

Somewhere within the Vjel-Amaj, premium guest quarters. The huge room offered much space for the several screens and equipment that habituated most of the area; one could say that this area was a remote laboratory, considering the amount of gadgets around. All screens revealed foreign stock market exchanges.

"“No way, Sren Pethera”", the paktu's voice sounded from the speakers of the large room; luckily free of time lapsing issues,
"“You are just hearing one of those tons of rumors bouncing across this weird ship. Somebody keeps spreading garbage, I tell you. That ol' missy is dead, she bit the dust - and that for good. She won't -”"

“No. Mark my words”, she slowly spoke word by word, - You heard right, Asad. Delixa is alive”, Pethera crossed her arms as she replied with her monotone voice.

"“I still have doubts about that.”"


“I am not lying, CEO”, she viciously replied to him, “You can be sure that I was surprised myself at first but... I assure you, that hiigaran is alive. The amaji heroine stood up from her grave.”


Angrily looking away from the speakers above her, the s'jeti woman approached the side of the room revealing a displayed window of the ship's external view to the bentusi port and the sealed inner decks. Surprisingly, the woman had mixed feelings. One side of her was disgusted about her enemy's survival - but on the other side, she now had an inner conflict of serious concerns that dealt the future. Especially the future - Pethera's cunning mind discovered serious need of thought.


"“A-Anyways, Pethera…”", Asad's troubled voice continued, soon to speak up with slight euphoria, "“Listen. I have information for you and the future of our corporation. You will not believe it, but what deals we are about to strike with the Bentusi… Y-You've not the slightest idea... *disgruntled sigh* Eh, I hate to say that we have to share… some… of it to those worthless amaji, but `contracts are contracts are contracts'…”"

“Don't do anything yet until I am there, Asad. But there is something else.”

"“As you wish, Pethera. The more we let the Bentusi crave, the better… but what else you want?”"
“I must demand you something for the sake of your life”, she suddenly announced.
"“What?!”"

The s'jeti began to hold a very long speech of cognitions to him; cognitions of great concerns and his sake.

Several hours went by as Hailynn shared the entire story since day one of the Vjel-Amaj with the bentusi entity who quietly listened to her and diverted all words to the bentusi mind. During this time as the Bentusi Harborship flew upon its tachyon wavefront, the crew of the Vjel-Amaj continued their efforts of repairs and rejuvenations.

The long walk itself was merely a revelation of her guilt and miseries. During the long walk, the two bypassed several hubs and cultural meetings of distant races. It was a much informative exchange of knowledge and experience as the Bentusi also received all reports from Captain Quenton Soban in the meantime, including more insightful information of the M'randara incidents and discoveries.

Hailynn kept her words as detailed as possible, not leaving the slightest event untold; starting with the rescue of the hiigaran-vaygr refugees, the elusion from the first Needleship, the confrontation with the Vaygr `Scay'Gra' crusade, the enigmatic comet `Kadesha's Tear' and the derelict taiidan mothership with Shodanii to the devastating conflict of the crusade's newly formed triad against the Kadeshi Seekers.


Amidst the conversation, Hailynn learned additional astonishing facts of Shodanii, the once enslaved taiidan persona. Nearly a hundred hiigaran years ago, the imperial taiidan titan and its vast fleet had not only ventured blindly across the galaxy due to the uncontrollable powers of the so-called Singularity Core but also stumbled upon the Bentusi several times.
As the two exchanged knowledge, it slowly became clear that the fate of the Kadeshi Seekers, their future and their accomplishments were in great danger; a fact that once again evoked Hailynn's deepest concerns; concerns so deep and dreadful that became definite nightmares that might occur in the far future.


To this point, Hailynn had to overcome the irony of being able to tell everything in such short time. The bentusi ambassador also assured her of the Vjel-Amaj receiving an ongoing documentation of their exchanges and knowledge.


At the end of the very long but in-depth informative walk, the two entered the huge medical facility into which Aira was brought. Biochemists and many other kinds of scientific people filled the mysterious place. A series of alien equipment hummed their distinct music whilst being used upon patients. Among other areas, one could spot smaller biological parasites being used for medical needs.

Occasionally, Hailynn discovered fellow crewmembers receiving transfusions as they made their way along the corridor. Spotting so many of them in pain and close to death struck her with cold sorrows… but somehow, she withstood bursting into tears. Soon, both reached their destination, finding several separate large chamber cells filled with thick fluids and entities and other living beings.


“My… gods…”, Hailynn commented quietly as her view turned from one side of the huge area to the other.

Noticed by the familiar person, Doctor Jonas once again met up with them, “Ah, Commander, hello again”, he greeted.
The hiigaran officer only wove her hand; her astonishment kept her in place as she stared upon the chamber ahead revealing the nearly naked kadeshi girl floating amidst the thick liquids. Among the voices, sounds of pumps and other mechanical units infused unknown liquids into the chambers.

“Same reaction as mine. I was surprised myself.”
“Doctor… What… What is going on here?”, she asked and made a single step forward, “I mean, I know it is helping her… but -”

“Just one of many things. Fluid nanobot technology, Hailynn, and along with that - several other things I have never seen in my entire life - and that said from somebody who uses foreign medical procedures. Just seeing this tells me I've barely scratched the surface of basic xeno technologies despite the years of experience.”
“…”

“Remember, Hailynn, it does not matter what you are. Whether you are a living organic being or a some sort of mechanical android: We all need repairs in any means. They call it nanotechnology, we doctors call it `medical fixing'… and although we are capable of using it, this whole ship and the Bentusi surpass all I've seen”, he explained and then pulled out a thin pad revealing biological data of Aira's status, “Well, let's see. Apparently, the girl has actually caught a cold of some sort from the bio-dome region of the taiidan mothership. Harmless, actually, but whatever it was, it was incubating in her. The last thing the girl needs is something messing around with her technical side. From what I can say, she has been vaccinated - and that will also be something we all will have to do to avoid any possible issues in the future.”


Hailynn quietly approached the chamber further.


“I have updated our casualties… unfortunately, our crew have suffered several losses of life - along with patients still with critical status. Considering Aira: I only can interpret the physical damages to a certain point - The Bentusi and all the other foreign doctors here can give us the in-depth scans. Excuse me, Hailynn -”, Jonas shortly said and signaled one of the biochemists to activate the medical scanners that soon revealed Aira's inner body.


It was the first time Hailynn was truly able to see what world was beneath the girl's beautiful skins. All images revealed live holographic pictures of her entire body with breathtaking resolution. It did not disgust Hailynn at all. Quiet `whooshes' of flowing blood cycled periodically and simultaneously through each area of the girl's body. Aira's blood however revealed differences. Though it was red, it shimmered in a much different tone. There was probably more to it, but she did not possess enough knowledge.


Biologically, the inner world of this girl did not differ from a female kushan body at all - but she already knew of this. Nonetheless, Hailynn's mind wondered shortly. The adolescent girl seemed so sure… so confident that she was not a real living being… and that to such an extent of disbelief.

Confusions…

But this evidence revealed what Hailynn assumed. Thinking of the time before, Hailynn already felt pulsing life within Aira when they were close together, and as she stared upon the live-feed, the Hiigaran woman saw the girl's core slowly pulsing lifeblood throughout her body. No doubts, she was real; definitely not some sort of machine, as Jonas mentioned. Shortly noticing the lungs, Hailynn's eyes recognized that there were different curved liquids of individual colors within huge tank that surrounded her mouth region. After seeing Aira once within such tank long ago within Shodanii's chamber, Hailynn assumed these specific liquids supported the exchange of gases within her lungs. Other than that, Aira remained slumbered deeply.

Hearing a short chuckle from her side, the doctor commented, “Remarkable, huh? You should have seen how she reacted when she saw her internal body the first time. Actually, it was the constant noise of life that actually scared her. She simply could not calm down afterwards, however. Her nervous body back then even intervened with our deep scans - as if her body could develop some sort of field. But anyways, Aira concurred to receive small medical doses to calm her down. I can tell you, Hailynn, that she possesses a very overactive metabolism. That said, and with a note of warning, keep her away from alcohol and things like that. Her body is unable to handle such heavy things like ours.”


Hailynn nodded and turned her view upon the screen again. But wait… there was a lot more revealed upon the biological aspects of Aira's body; the deep scans revealed mysterious networks and implants throughout her body. It was as if she had another set of organs mirrored upon her biological aspects and bone structure.


“This girl's body is fitted with countless implants and… things… I don't know. Architectures… masterpieces of xeno-technologies - Things I've never seen, as I said before. Their uses remain a mystery to me. But as we both know, your harshfulness has caused great damage upon critical segments of her brain. Despite the durability of these mysterious things, Hailynn, the girl is nonetheless a very delicate being. However, the stressful situations we went through also left their traces upon her as well.”

Hailynn's sore hands met with the cold hard shell of the chamber; her mind frequently asked herself what she had done to this girl… a single tear ran down her right cheek as her knees met the floor. The crutch simultaneously fell upon the floor.

“Commander?!”
“I-I… I'm all right, doctor”, she wove to him without looking,

“Bentusi ambassador…?”
“What ails you, Hailynn of Amaj?”, the entity responded.

“Ambassador. I am sorry. I have not told you about my harmful deed I have done to this girl - aside to what happened to the ship. I was under the influences of drugs…”, Hailynn suddenly confessed to the ambassador, ”I have lost my mind when Aira led us to the derelict taiidan mothership instead of the amaji homeworld as I demanded from her… and mindlessly struck the girl for the defiance. Granted, I was under the influence of drugs, but my inner angers also caused the violent reaction. I will not hide the truth, ambassador, but I am psychologically instable… I was later told, though, that a hyperjump from that position to the amaji world would have killed us due to the black hole. Th-The girl actually saved our lives in the end. I have done great harm to my people but foremost to the entity of our ship, our most trusted crewmember… my entrusted… little sister.
I fear that I am no longer worth being the one entrusted to her. Not only that, ambassador, I have also violated kiithidial regulations against a superior representative of Kiith S'Jet - a deed that borders the act of high treason - and I assume I will be stripped of all honors and lastly executed. Alas… I know Aira still trusts me. She forgave me… I done so much wrong to her - physically and emotionally -and yet she gave me her salvation.”
Of course, Hailynn was not biologically but was somewhat emotionally related to Aira. Despite all, Hailynn was still threatened to be executed. There was no way out of that fate.


“We all must confess our demons as our life cycles, Hailynn of Amaj”, the ambassador's deeply calm voice replied, “Every prospering being sings light. Where there is light, young soul, there is… darkness. We Bentusi know of the hiigaran mind; the mind that was once our fear thousands of generations ago.”
Her view remained staggered upon the slumbering girl as the bentusi entity continued its speech, “The Bentusi understands that the minds of bound cultures may someday be plagued by their mirroring soul. This darkness is part all living souls - It is also part of you... but do not fear its existence, Hailynn of Amaj. Bound beings often misinterpret darkness… sometimes as their greatest evil. But this is not true.”


Whilst listening, Hailynn's right eye lowered its focus from Aira's submerged body and met with her opposite; the reflection of Hailynn's other self… the demon disguised before her.
“Darkness dwells among the souls. Its shadow brings fear, but it is not evil. It protects the soul. Young minds however fear this darkness, for its alluring song may misguide the mind to evil... and chaos. However, young soul, heed our song: Neither can exist without its opposite. Light may also allure one's mind to evil alike darkness… Light does not shape darkness - It is the darkness that shapes the light of your souls…”


Jonas crossed his arms as he listened to the ambassador's words and thought of philosophers' and psychologists' studies of mentalities, especially those darkly ones. There was some sort of truth to this although he did not really believed in this himself - a common trait of those amaji who are of nabaali heritage.


“I am afraid it's too late for me, ambassador”, the woman replied with disgrace, “Th-The darkness has allured my mind already… I know it has -”

“Hailynn of Amaj. Fates may be sealed, destinies may be veiled - but it is the songs of the unbound that may change ones future and the flow of time. We have stumbled upon many sole beings plagued by their inner darkness… One of them, an angel of death from a living ship that ventured throughout two mirroring galaxies, hoped to change his fate despite his past that has brought death to many species. We will never forget his words… `In the light universe, I was darkness… perhaps in the dark zone… I could be light…”

The sorrowing Hiigaran lifted her face once more but hesitated to say a word. Her inner demon only returned her glare. Maybe… just maybe… her soul needed this darkness. Before forming further thought, her view once again lifted itself towards the submerged body, ”P- Please… Ambassador. Tell me, what… no… who is Aira truly?”


“Excuse my interruption, Commander”, the doctor insisted to say, “She's a kadeshi girl. I know she is. Her cell structure, genes… I know she is a kadeshi… o-or?”, now he also began to show sign of doubts.


“I know… but I spoke with her. She is not just a kadeshi… or an entity. Doctor, Aira was sure of the fact that she was not even a naturally born child”, Hailynn firmly said him, “She has learned from the Kadeshi Seekers that she is some sort of a copy… but she is not a clone. Neither is she what we see her as - she is not some six or seventeen year old girl. According to what she told me, her body and mind exists far beyond… she's beyond several generations old! Aira is probably older than the Hiigaran Empire itself! I-I know it sounds crazy… frell, I know everybody would say that is `full of nonsense'… but it is true. Aira is not a liar; she has proven it in many ways - We all have even seen it with our eyes - There is more to it. So, ambassador, please, please tell me who is this enigmatic girl we know as…Aira …”


“Ah…”, the bentusi's deep voice echoed, “Very well.”
Slowly moving closer, the ambassador hovered closer until it stood just two steps behind the hiigaran woman as it spoke:
“Long before the birth of the new hiigaran age, a far distant soul of the Bentusi had observed great turmoil and suffering within the world your kiith know as the `Garden of Kadesh'. Amidst the turmoil, it has brought birth to a belief that endured a legacy… a journey across the galaxy. The Bentusi feared the nebula. The Observer, the careful unbound soul that listened, never dared to enter this shrouded world. However…”


The ambassador made a long pause, as if it also pondered about the girl's possibly distant past, “There was a confrontation - so says the memory of the Observer. A surprising attack struck upon the majestic vessel you have spoken as of `Kadesha's Ark' amidst the border of the kadeshi nebula. When the `Ark' fled to being its… pilgrimage, the kadeshi turmoil returned into the deep of the nebula, leaving only the remains of what they were able to perish. The observer attempted bravery and approached the nebula's edge, soon to discover bodies contained in a ruptured shell somewhere within the vast field of debris that was once part of the `Ark'. One among all of them still revealed unknown… activity. A sorrowing... faint… song… that attracted the Observer's soul. The attraction… the song… The Observer cannot explain… its… beauty…”


Hailynn quietly turned herself around and looked upwards upon the bentusi ambassador.
“The body was somhow…blessed … by the unknown kadeshi believers that have began their pilgrimage. Although the Bentusi will never scavenge or interfered with fate, the Observer's young soul felt the song's sorrows… which lead to the Observer's endeavor of retrieving this dying unbound soul.”
Both the doctor and the hiigaran woman looked back upon the floating body within the huge fluid tank.


“Indeed, souls of amaj, this was the body of the kadeshi girl that now exist before our eyes. The Observer returned this body to the Bentusi, willing to revive this dying soul. However, the soul of this blessed being was nothing the Bentusi have confronted before… As you have said, during the time of Kiith Amaj's birth, this song and was never heard again- until you have returned during this cycle”, after a short pause, the ambassador called upon them, “Jonas of Amaj, Hailynn of Amaj…”
The views of the two returned once again to the ambassador entity.


“Ever since her return to us again, the Bentusi have sensed that her lost soul has once again revealed its song. The body of Aira… is not a clone. An android… or bioroid, she is not - It therefore it possessed a soul echoing a song. Neither androids nor bioroids can cause what Aira's soul echoes. However, souls of amaj, she is no longer an entity due to her unraveled song.
We are so-called as entities because we only reflect the Bentusi will as the true Bentusi are physically connected with our ship. Aira is no longer… basic. Her song excels… beyond. Returning your minds to the cycle of the Observer, both minds must understand that Aira is a special but fragile being. Her soul is brittle - but during the time the observer and Bentusi endeavored to retain her body, they discovered that her soul was flawed due to death's scar.
Her body cannot exist without a pure soul - The pure soul cannot exist without will. The Bentusi refused to accept her fate of impending death… Stasis… this was the Bentusi's only way to contain her dying soul from death. Cycles of generations later, the death of the Great Bentus occurred. It was an atrocity that brought great fears into the souls of the Bentusi, leading to their final decision of refraining from this galaxy. Albeit the Great Bentus' death, his song still existed… somewhere within this galaxy… unfortunately without a body. It was cycles later when the Bentusi Enclave heeded the plea of the unbound Sajuuk'Khar of Hiigara, Karan S'jet, to return to this galaxy - Her song revealed also the Bentus' everlasting song that would lead to its everlasting soul. As of fact, souls of amaj, the Second Core that existed within the Trinity Core of the awoken Sajuuk revealed that the Bentus' soul still existed. The Enclave ventured to this galaxy. Karan has united her song with ours to return the soul of the Bentus to our will. The Bentusi Enclave is thankful for her deed as we were able to once again endure our virtues across the galaxy despite our `limited' numbers.”


Hailynn suddenly fought to stand up. It took her several attempts without the help from Jonas she denied. Her hasted movement led to the fact that she also came to the same conclusion as his. Looking with a frantic eye, Hailynn stared upon the bentusi entity as it spoke further, “When the Enclave returned to this galaxy, we discovered further truth that the Great Bentus was not only the death our souls were to sorrow for.
During the galactic war between valiant souls of Hiigara and the united Vaygr Crusade of Makaan, the Great Bentus was the last of the Bentusi and therefore the sole essence who responded to the distress of the Observer but unfortunately was too late to aid the distress… only to discover her dead husk somewhere within the Balcora Cluster. The Vaygr revealed no mercy - To the Bentus' misfortune, the Vaygr also forced the Bentus to seclude itself amidst the edge of the dangerous black hole, Balcora Cluster.”

The doctor knew that was not all of it.

“The Bentusi Enclave possessed the remains of sorrows; that of our beloved Observer… the Great Bentus… and… Aira. Beyond the birth of the Kiith Amaj and its enduring support for the Enclave, we wished to end our sorrows of the unbound beings. Thus… we gifted the Kiith Amaj with our most precious treasures…”

“The Observer…”, the doctor suddenly said, “The… Great… Bentus”
“Aira… The Vjel-Amaj”, Hailynn concluded and shortly looked upon the floor - now it all started to make sense, “Un…Unbelievable.”
“It can't be…”

“The blood of this fragile soul”, the Bentusi entity remarked, “Is blessed by the unknown. Not only is her body, mind and soul blessed, the blood that flows through her possesses hidden… forces. Once evoked, the soul of this young being may alter… time and space… fabric throughout the strings of hyperspace… perhaps… more… Souls of amaj, the Bentusi senses her blood infusing this unknown potency. But be warned… Her slumbering powers may shatter more than her fragile body…”
Hailynn looked upon the slumbering self of Aira floating within the fluid tank, “The Bentusi Enclave… You have combined all into one”, and as she spoke, her view wandered back and forth as she nervously settled the puzzles of her thoughts together, “You said it, ambassador - None of them could survive without its missing piece of existence! A body cannot live without a soul, a mind without a body… I-I am not sure if I understood everything correctly… but - is it true? A-Aira soul contains their souls?!”
The mechanical sensor of the bentusi entity shrunk slightly, “Yes… but your young minds must heed the song: The Vjel-Amaj holds the soul Aira, Aira's body and soul holds the will of the fallen. The observer's body is the essence of the Vjel-Amaj. The Vjel-Amaj reflects Aira - Aira reflects the song of our lost ones and her own. But… we sense her mind endlessly endures a fragile embrace… for another fallen soul … a soul that has united with her alike the Great Bentus and the Observer.”


After another long pause, the doctor seemed to have found the answer, “Hailynn… Could it be that it is that so-called Shodanii, the A.I. being? I have heard the girl mumbling her name every now and then when we brought her here.”
“If that is so… then… that would mean that Shodanii manifested… or combined… herself… somehow… with Aira.”
“Precisely, souls of amaj. This young beautiful being has been expressing the evolution of an unbound ever since the begin her existence… Shodanii, however, has evoked the true blessing slumbering within her blood, her mind, her heart and soul.”
“Gods… of… Sajuuk…”

Somewhere within the logistics deck…
During all this time, Deena and the subordinating operative have been working with the freight and other affairs of logistics.
“Man, you've a lot of questions, Rico”, Deena commented to him as she closed one of the surrounded containers she had been sniffing around in.

“Sorry about that. Just never really had the chance to ask, ma'am.”
“Ahh, no worries, pal. I'm sure you'll - *huh?*”

Feeling the small pad stored upon the hip pouch vibrating, the vivacious logistics officer pulled it out and quietly checked why it started to bug her.

“What's that?”

“Oh, this you mean? This is something you'll be getting sooner or later. It's a data pad that acts as a sophisticated inventory tool. Very useful thing, it is! Usually informs me of important changes in logistics… Y'know, supplies, military ordnance, armaments, stocks, fuels, technological liquids and stuff like that - Yeah, and… ah-and… and… wh-w-wh-whaaaaaaaa-?!”, Deena suddenly stared closer to the pad with both hands in great astonishment.

“!”, the bentusi ambassador suddenly looked upwards from its side.
“A-Ambassador, is something wrong?”, the wrecked hiigaran dared to ask.

It took long moments until the ambassador returned its view down upon the two, “Souls of amaj. It seems as if your people have sold precious… matter to our Bentusi Traders. Valuable… matter of importance to the Bentusi.”

“I beg to understand, ambassador, but I am afraid that neither I nor the doctor understand what you mean?”
Within the same moment, Hailynn's replacement comm unit rung an urgent tone.

“Excuse me, ambassador. It must be somebody from the Vjel-Amaj - <Delixa here>”

“”Hailynn? Orelis here””, the familiar voice announced, “”Sorry to bud in like this, Commander, but it's an urgent one… ””

“We're all ear here - have dangers occurred?!”, she asked, assuming one of those pirates were up to something, “Pirates?!”.


““Negative… C-coast is clear. But it is way something else … Listen. I know how much you hate those `miner' guys of that parasite corporation that we were forced to dwell with… but they just struck a major... deal… with the Bentusi - and we've just received our piece of it - and there is a lot more of it coming… but… I'll just cut it short and say that… we are…“”

At the same time, Deena continuously stared upon the pad as she spoke to Rico, “N-no… way…”, she giggled devilishly while her hands trembled.
Rico stood paralyzed as he stared upon the woman who hunched as she stared upon the digital pad.

“Ch-Chief? I don't get it, what's going on? Did something important happen? An accident?”

“Mah boy…”, the amaji woman suddenly said and turned her head slowly to him, “Th-This is what all true logistics officers strive for… The piece of the pie for trade… ooh- ohh dear… calm down“, Deena was getting far too nervous as she pat her chest several times, “Rico… You won't believe it… We're…”

“”…rich… Hailynn. Rich…””

“RICH! Z'oh my gods of Sajuuk! RIT-CH! RICH!”, Deena yelled at him and showed the billions of credits in bentusi currency that was just transferred upon the logistics' account balance… followed by another beep revealing more transfers… and if there was one thing for sure, Bentusi never make mistakes.

“” RICH. Hailynn, you remember that day we were forced to rescue Asad and his band of frakking miners that led us through those energy fields and into the comet?! *pause* Yup, you guessed it, they sold whatever crap they harvested - and believe it or not, Hailey…””, Orelis' voice suddenly calmed down,””Only one word marks this shit by the name: Profit. Those goddamn miners sold those minerals and energetic clouds to the Bentusi and got billions for it - and our take on that piece of cake is likewise… and I'm not even talking about the piece the amaji navy will receive. I-I cannot say how crazy this sounds but… we're... rich…!””

Hailynn lowered her view slightly, “…F-filthy… rich…”

“”But there's one more thing about Asad, Hailynn. I think you won't like it. Hang on, Kelsea will connect you with him.””
“All… All right”, a short glimpse to the doctor revealed that he was just as amazed.


After hearing the very garbled voice of Kelsea first, Hailynn listened carefully as the voice and transmission of Captain Quenton signal was clarified slightly, “”Thank you, Operative Kelsea. Commander Delixa, I must inform you that I have disturbing news considering CEO Asad.””

“C-Captain Sobaan?”

“”Commander. I have had an in-depth negotiation with Kiith'Sren Pethera… As of her words: CEO Asad and his miners will soon depart with their ships from the Vjel-Amaj and will not return with us. According to her words, the mining vessel and its remaining units will depart any moment too soon and dock onboard a different vessel that will drop out of the Bentusi's tachyon wavefront. I do not know where they go but apparently, I fear this will affect you… personally.””

Hailynn's right eye suddenly widened as she heard the last part of his transmission, “… N-no… no… p-please… no…”
Emotions of all kinds suddenly struck her soul…

 

***

The inner world that existed throughout the medical facility was thriving - merely resembling separate districts of a highly advanced city… and that throughout the entire vessel. The echoes of foreign languages and alien sounded periodically.
The air that surrounded her was cool and fresh; but it did not matter, her breath remained heavy as she stared upon the event.


Standing upon one of the many open-air lookout points of the medical facility, Hailynn quietly kept her halved view focused far ahead. The bandaged right hand of the wrecked officer rested upon the railed wall at the edge until they tightened upon it. Joining her misery, Jonas' hand was gently laid upon her bruised shoulder as he discovered the source of her gloom.

The thrashed Vjel-Amaj was still visible far beyond the thriving trading decks behind the transparent mass that resembled some sort of invincible glass . However, it was the smaller craft that filled her soul with great despair. Asad's heavy mining ship, the `Hive', and the remaining harvesters latched to its hull began to rise from the dorsal exterior of the amaji cruiser. Just moments ago, Hailynn begged the Captain to stop Asad's escape; both knowing that this man was getting away with the deaths relentlessly caused on his behalf.


According to the Captain's further commenting before ending the transmission with her, neither he nor any other amaji crewman were capable of stopping the greedy miner eluding his guilt. Apparently, Pethera's kiithidial status was far superior over the voice of the Captain - or any other being of the ship… but it was the pure fact that Hailynn's word would now stand without the man of guilt who was truly responsible for many deaths due to his greed and arrogance.

Without him, Hailynn would no longer be in the position of devastating Pethera or even having the slightest chance of survival during the kiithid tribunal that is assured to happen due to the fact that this man of guilt was escaping.


The hiigaran woman suddenly bit both teeth together. Asad was far too important for Pethera - both for her and the corporation - but unfortunately, Hailynn's big mouth must have given her plan away... and now, she had absolutely nothing in hand. Even if the entire crew would beg for her salvation, Pethera's word of power through a kiithid tribunal for treason and disrespectfulness would be Hailynn's death - starting with dishonorable discharges… that would then end in execution.

Dr. Jonas' hand suddenly lifted as he felt a violent jolt of Hailynn's wounded hand slamming against the solid railing. As the doctor stood behind her hesitantly, he then observed the wounded hand nervously combing her hair… Hailynn fell into great despair; a reaction he had never seen from her before. The dreaded venture through the M'randara Star System may be over… but its aftermath left great scars.


During this moment, both of them observed Asad's vessel hovering over and docking upon unknown vessel not far from the area of the Vjel-Amaj. As it all occurred, it became clear that Pethera must have rushed this decision. Jonas did not know much about Asad, but he knew that he had caused much trouble for the crew. Forcing his view away from Asad's ship after it disappeared upon the unknown vessel, Jonas noticed that Hailynn was at the edge of breaking down. He had greatest sorrows for the bruised woman who nearly lost her precious life… and now it was clear that she was destined to die. Even if the Kiith Amaj were to stand for her, the S'jet and its kiith supremacy had little regards for those repelling the kiithid laws and will.


“Comman… Hailynn…“, he suddenly said to her, “I… I think we should bring you inside and have you prepared for the major surgery you will need to undergo once we are back upon `Providence'.
I wish to remove the depleted nanobot-units from your system and replace them with the superior ones the Bentusi have developed. I am also sure that the medical entities and capabilities of the Bentusi can repair most of your bone and tissue fractures. Please. Your body has undergone so much damage and stress… I'm sorry to bring this up, but among all atrocities we've gone through - what your precious body has gone through is… devastating. Please, if you want to live further -”

The lively noise of the trading decks never ended… and for some reason, Hailynn felt envy, “Doctor… what sense will it make to save my life? I'm as good as dead once I set feet on `Providence'. H-How will I ever…?”

“I must apologize, Hailynn, but my priority is to save and maintain lives of here and now. For the sake of Aira, Hailynn - Let me save your life before you lose it… too early.”

“I-I don't have any desire to give Pethera that last note of victory, Doctor! It doesn't make sense… I won't let her enjoy the last glory… Doctor…”, she suddenly barked at him.


Jonas already sensed what she was asking for as she lowered her view, but he refused her request by laying his hand once again upon her shoulder. Commencing suicide or begging for euthanasia would be the worst for us all, Hailynn, his silence replied, For the sake of Aira... don't…


The glance over her shoulder was short but full of deep concerns. Quietly concurring, the defeated Hiigaran woman slowly turned herself away from the railing as the unknown vessel harboring Asad's mining ships departed from the inner port of the Bentusi Harborship and begun to hover its way to the opening.

Once entering the currents of the tachyon wavefront flowing between the Bentusi vessel's massive structures, the ship soon neutralized the field of energy surrounding its mass, forcing it to vanish and emerge back into normal space in an instant. Though a rough measure, it was the simplest procedure of dropping out of hyperspace and is usually executed when individuals wish to drop off the travelling route once near a desired location in normal space.


Surprisingly, Jonas did not find a single tear in her eye, yet the crushing weight of defeat was sensible. As both approached the Bentusi ambassador, the biomechanical entity turned around and led them back into the interior of the huge facility.


= Somewhere else, within a specific crew quarters deep within the Vjel-Amaj. =


The room was darkened as two beings stood afar from each other. The young amaji woman suddenly turned away; her face full of tears and agony, “'…W-w-weak'… you call me `weak'? *sob*”

Ray unfortunately spoke his thoughts about the amaji woman who was led by her emotions. The long conversation they had was very devastating for her feelings. More likely, it was hours long of an argument between the two - usually having Ray being quiet or short of words most of the time while Fenna expressed her thoughts emotionally. The tall Vaygr showed no regret for his words that insulted her deeply.

“Fenna of Amaj. I am Vaygr. You are Amaji… I am a warrior. I cannot serve you as -”
Fenna froze for a single moment while untangling her chignon, “S-serve me?! Is this some sort of joke?! You think I want to be your some sort of `Lord of Command' crap?! I don't care about that! It doesn't matter what we are, RAY!”, she suddenly yelled and approached him,
“I can't believe I am still standing her trying to make it clear to you, but you know what… you really are Vaygr: Dumb and tall… thinking only about killing and floating in space for nothing! But let's see it your way, I may be weak - worth a dren of willpower… a good-for-nothing pilot… frightened by these… these frakking noises that keep occurring like now - scaring the frell out of me every second... but that's me, VAYGR… I am an AMAJI… weak… if that is how you depict us…”

“I am a warrior. I was born in space. I will die in space. Fate never intended to grant me what you desire, Amaji. My future will remain unknown once this vessel returns to your homeworld… I cannot live with the shame. Else… I am sure the Amaji will not spare me. I -”

“NO! STOP SAYING SUCH THINGS!”


Knowing that Ray was about to list all of those devastating, outright pessimistic things he shared with her about his past and his possible future again, Fenna instinctively hurled herself ahead, wrapping both of her arms around the his cold bulky waist.

Her approach was so swift that she even knocked the side of her face hardly upon his armor, “Enough… Enough about all of this… madness…”, Fenna stuttered and sobbed several times, ignoring all that was said until this moment, “No, Ray… No… I am not going to let anything happen to you. I will never allow anybody to split us! I neither care what the kiith will decide nor whatever that Hailynn woman demands from you - She is just as sick and wicked like everybody else! You have no idea… how much we have in common, Ray.
I've been alone for so long… I was constantly humiliated by everybody due to my ridiculous career as a lousy… freighter pilot… I admit what you see on me, Ray - I ADMIT IT… I am… weak… but…”

Her cheek hurt but she did not react to the pain.


“…”, he did not answer.

“- Death has occurred so many times around us. You were ages in space… killing and slaughtering every living being that stood in the way of Makaan. We Amaji were always attacked by raiders, corsairs and all sorts of pirates during my time elsewhere in space working for various mining and exotic freighting corporations.
Every time, I've been suffering tragedies - abusing - and fears of becoming one of those breeding slaves for those dreaded pirates… but I want to look forward! I won't let those other kiithid idiots try to decide on your future, Ray!”, Fenna suddenly paused and lowered her nervous voice, ”L-listen, Ray… I am sure I can get us out of this… mess, when we return to Amaj. I know I can! Ray, y-you must trust me. A n-new… start - for you… for me - the both of us… Our peace can be found on Amaji Prime! Free of all this madness!”


Ray looked down upon the young amaji whose face revealed trails of tear streams and faintly swollen in red due to the long argument. Fenna's dark blond hair was wild and open; the band that once formed the chignon was floating somewhere upon her head. Even her jump suit was wrinkled and slightly exposed… but she did not care, therefore was she too excited, full of sorrows and desperate thoughts.

“What do you mean? Fenna of…”

Fenna continuously pressed her peach-swollen cheek upon his heavy armor as she spoke with a soft voice, calming herself from the long argument and hoping to evoke the slightest bit of warmth from the Vaygr warrior, “A new start, Ray… I am willing to give up my lousy career for you! It is legislated by kiithidial laws that any being may end service and… st-start a civil life on the planet - free from all these… these… chains. L-let me share more about myself… I am just some useless contract pilot Hailynn happened to hire since nobody else was available at that time and moment who had basic knowledge in that ex… expertise in helm navigation.
There's a major shortage of pilots and - bah, bet she only looked for the cheapest pilot or some crap, too. Forget about Hailynn - Let me tell you this… Long before, I was drafted during the last year of Hiigaran oppression to serve the navy through a civilian-military support provider; later forced to continue as we suddenly became a only bunch of skilled people left to… actually fly anything left floating throughout orbit after most of the Hiigaran kiithid abandoned.
A-Anyways, I never insisted to resign from being a contract pilot long before because I had no reason. Deena was the only person who was there for me back then… but I begged her not to stand before me for the sake of her reputation. Life on the planet can get as lonely as it is in this freaking emptiness of space without loving anybody on your side, I tell you, and with that reputation I am still carrying with me, I had even more doubts about ever settling down on the planet again.
Deena is only my twin sister and blood relative - It was a mere coincidence that we found each other on this ship later on… but far from that, I am tainted by my past, Ray. I'm a flawed person. I can't stay concentrated on a job. I break up.
Frell, I've even crashed with a freighter against `Providence'… and other things. I am a living shame known throughout Amaji Prime”, Fenna lowered her face, “The planet itself - or at least the continent our people colonized - is a lousy one. It constantly rains, damn humid - scary storms… and I still would freak out if I would end up in one again… but I tell you, Ray, it is still a peaceful planet, free of maniacal terrors of people trying to slaughter each other - I'd confront my fears, shame and disgust of those others just to be with you… forever! I never thought I could ever look up to a person who means... s-so much to me.
Those repopulation doctrines of the past were frightening and I was only spared of the Hiigaran repopulation slavery due to being drafted and my given breeding grade. I can still give birth but it looks like that just was not enough for them back then - It has changed since then, Ray... m-maybe we could…”, the young Amaji suddenly stuttered and made a hesitant pause before speaking further, ”Only after the Kiith Amaj's liberation, I was left on that space station with nowhere to go but to continue this dreaded service of rotting on the colony ship's academies as some stupid flight school teacher - a job I lost fast - instead, I slaved myself through other strenuous piloting jobs and later ended up here. But I don't care about my past anymore! I want to start a new life… a new life with you…”, Fenna embrace upon his waist suddenly tightened, “Haven't you… ever noticed the other Vaygr of your clan… your kiith… who have laid their burdens and weapons to be… with the Hiigarans? Vaygr… and Hiigarans… Ray. They have ended the bloodshed for good… It is a m-miracle of love that is in all living beings - I never thought such to be possible myself… until I had seen it with my own eyes… and I have heard it from them, your Vaygr kiith only wished to seek for a homeworld to settle down… Haven't you ever wondered how life would be… not to be in battle… not to be serving some maniac `Lord of Command' not caring about your life… Never-ever to be flying in a coffin… slaughtering everything like a grim reaper before it destroys you? Never to be a slave of death… ever again?”


Her words… So many words.
These Amaji do talk much.

The Vaygr did not know what to say after hearing the young woman's long story. Nevertheless, for some reason, her story did affect him. Recalling moments throughout his life, Ray's mind revisited the spoils of wars and the ends of ferocious battles… with thousands of thousands of mangled, devastated frozen corpses partially entangled by the entrails of their destructed crafts…

Debris and shreds of hulks spread across his view as Makaan's serving crusades crushed every resistance upon their paths.
Death was always besides him. He is a servant of death… and he knew death would someday end his life. Never did the Vaygr envy those who decided to bond themselves with the Hiigarans… but now, he slowly began to question himself whether fate was giving him the chance to follow a different current to his future. From all Vaygr doctrines he learned to live for, he found no real answer…

“You may have your Vaygr rituals with their nonsense… mindless ways of tribes roaming through the galaxy and on how you must live and die or how you must serve - but … Ray… We Amaji have a way of life - not death! Th-There is something to live for! For the sake of my life, let us stay together… J-Join me… Let us leave our pasts behind and start a new life… together… I-l love you… Ray… ”

Fenna confessed her love to him once more despite all their differences.

“War never changes… War never ends, Fenna of…”, the tall man paused, then corrected himself, ”Fenna… If there is an end… then I m-must continue to serve... and find this `end'. It is my destiny. It is… my affliction -”


The hand of the confessing amaji woman gently met with his, leading the cold rough and bulky hand upon the side of her trembling face, followed by her hand gliding upon his masked face and then gently removing it. Ray looked deeply into the blue eyes of a living being that dared to look up to him… for the first time; never expecting to be embraced by a confused, weak amaji woman.


“- The… Amaji will never accept my existence despite their so-called… embrace. There is… no… way I can exist on a planet… for… I… am… Vaygr…”


The amaji's deepest woe faded with each spoken word, “You have found the end, Ray. And even the planet will not take us, I will”, her trembling, sobbing voice slowly gained in determination, “I may be a screw-up… but I s-swear with my life… I-I will find a world for the both of us to exist upon, my love... f-for… I… am… Fenna…”

**

(A narrative voice speaks)
*Time flows back to historical events that happened several years before. All eyes focus on a massive colonization vessel and its armada spotted upon various orbital areas of a planet, followed by several fleets emerging from hyperspace.*


As myriads of lives were lost during Vaygr Makaan's crusade into the heart of the Hiigaran Empire, a lower council segment of the Daiamid proposed a desperate measure after becoming aware of a nightmare soon to become true. While the Hiigaran Navy barely held its grounds throughout its sovereignty, the entire population suffered greatly and was in desperate need of refuge as the homeworld Hiigara was soon to be the next target.

Furthermore, with the old Pride of Kharak Mothership only able to evacuate a fraction of the population, it became clear that a great deal of the outer kiithid civilian population was bound to be fall totally to Makaan's madness if nothing were to be done.


This was the cause for another drastic act of evacuation and adaption: Deep space colonization - not to be confused with conventional colonization methods. Though already developed into a single prototype vessel and another massive number of similar supporting ships, it was a measure that was never really contemplated until this time and matter. The prototype vessel, being only marginally smaller than the Pride of Hiigara in scale, possessed hybrid propulsion systems based on superior Progenitor technologies and Hiigaran engineering.

While the Trinity Cores were the only true successors of superior Far-Jumping capabilities, such deep space colonization vessel such as this Progenitor-Hiigaran hybrid prototype was capable of crossing long distances beyond Short-Jump boundaries whilst supporting a wavefront capable of carrying a vast number of accompanying naval fleets but also accompanied structures, modules and segments - regardless of mass to a certain point.

Slight hopes evolved from the plans as such devoted remote colonization would allow colonists to prosper elsewhere far away from Hiigaran's upcoming terrors in safety while supporting the naval fleets from the new strategic position.

However, already sensing the spoils of this war, the Hiigaran Empire also needed to ensure a stable birth rate as this war already caused death rates to excel beyond expectations. The Daiamid forged and endorsed controversial doctrines of constraining repopulation and breeding regulations to ensure future developments and manpower for Hiigara should this war continue.


Having not much of a choice, kiithid of all kinds followed the Daiamid's declarations and conducted the transfer of their civilian population onto the prototype deep space colonization vessel. Able to support life and carry its population, structures, modules and fleets safely throughout the tracts of hyperspace, the kiithid and its population were soon on its way to a distant prospected star system; light-years away from Hiigara and its later blockade by the Vaygr.

This superior colonization vessel was christened as Khar Hren-Vossat San Amaj, historically named after a kharakian nation that searched and found land to prosper upon and later offer refuge to those in need during centuries of wars.

Knowing that the Vaygr crusade may discover the deep space colonization vessel and its sisterships or its later destination, the Hiigaran Navy aside of the Daiamid has endorsed a military doctrinal operation as a measure to support Karan S'Jet's fleet that was desperately searching for the Trinity Hyperspace Cores and also to divert a decisive fallacy upon the rear Vaygr crusades to lure them away from the prospected star system.

The deployment to the prospected system and planet was a complete success without any greater issues. Having a new massive armada operating from a much different and remote flank, fleets could now attack deeper Vaygr regions filled with strategic targets. Although this doctrinal operation proved itself as the most worthy and effective plan that indeed allured the Vaygr away from the colonized star system, it also caught the armada of Hiigaran fleets operating in those regions into nightmares of death traps - both through Vaygr and natural causes.


Known phenomena throughout time and space were very active among these regions including the new Hiigaran base of naval operation. Dislocations and disruptions of all kinds interfered with communication and propulsion - the most devastating one being fields in Hyperspace that would tear wavefronts into separate directions leading to various points of emergence. With High Command of the colonized system loosing integrity and contact in both command and fleet structure throughout the time, fleets began to disperse everywhere among the Vaygr-controlled regions.

Though these `misjumps' led to isolation of many individuals in such peril that even threw them even deeper into Vaygr territory, they were not defeated - simply lost amidst formerly known cartographic space. These natural hinderences were soon to be used as an advantage for later Hiigaran strategies and procedures.

It was the time where such fleet commanders were forced to follow suggestions of individuals to develop new strategies for the will of survival. While in despair, the Hiigarans proved their willpower and cunning by frequently dealing surgical strikes on strategic various areas of logistics and key structures through several guerilla fleet operations inadaptable for the Vaygr. It was the efforts of these guerilla operations that lastly began to disrupt the Vaygr crusades' progress - albeit marginally, they proved themselves as true thorns in the eyes of the Vaygr.


Surviving throughout such Vaygr-controlled regions was far beyond from being simple. After heavy strikes and surprise attacks on various sorts of possible Vaygr targets, the Hiigaran units would immediately retreat and spread out blindly into hyperspace - usually natural just by the cause of hyperspace dislocation fields - in order to elude any chance of the Vaygr to counterattack or backtrack possible points of emergence. The rush of retreat also sometimes led to Hiigaran units forced to sacrifice their ships and lives for the sake of others, much to the despair of Hiigaran individuals.

Survival also meant ongoing days and months of eluding Vaygr patrols and baiters for every Hiigaran individual, including the need of raiding minor Vaygr targets, contacting individually oppressed races throughout the regions, salvaging and scavenging what was left in hulking entrails and drifting graves of destructed ships of various from previous battles - sometimes even waylaying the foreign supporters of Vaygr convoys.

Finding allied signals was not easy, for the Vaygr had mobile far-reaching listening posts everywhere. When battles were not fought, Hiigaran crewmen still had to withstand both physical and mental stress and illness alluring them into breakdowns… This sometimes also led to madness - even to distinct defections to the Vaygr or chaotic psyches that commonly led to imminent death, friendly fire, ghost ships and further losses to the Hiigaran guerilla fleets.


Nonetheless, single Hiigaran vessels would first continue their efforts of survival throughout hostile space, establish communication with other allied forces that have lost linkage to their previous group and then consolidate new vital plans of sabotage upon the operating Vaygr crusades.

You may have heard of such heroic units who have frequently taken command over several of these guerilla operations, such as the powerful UMESSIA-KREE Battlecruiser, the elite SAHD-MANAAN and TIIR-NABAAL segments, the small but nimble TALON-VO assault frigate and many other heroic vessels and personas who participated for the sake of Hiigara and the population that now colonized the prospected planet, Amaji Prime.

Specifically, it was the TALON-VO that also discovered a single mysterious Vaygr transport that carried payload of a devastating warhead after obliterating its escort through a cold ambush procedure.

Considering the intercepted transmissions, it seemed as if this payload was supposed to be transported into the core systems - namely the outskirts of Hiigara - and there were a lot more of such being transported over just now. When the TALON-VO became aware of this frightening threat and shared its knowledge with others, it became clear that all units needed to return to the core systems and the ongoing theater of war - The Siege of Hiigara.


Despite the war actually ending elsewhere far beyond the colonization of Planet Amaji Prime and the desperate guerilla fleets, having Makaan epic failing in retrieving the Trinity Cores and the Progenitor Dreadnought Sajuuk, Hiigara was yet to face the last verdict of Makaan before the warlord's ultimate death; his last order to all crusades to unite at the Siege of Planet Hiigara to deploy several of the galaxy's most feared weaponry of death: Low Orbit Atmosphere Deprivation Weapons.

These weapons were hulking warheads fitted into huge long range torpedoes that are capable of causing devastating chain reactions in atmospheric gases; an ongoing chain reaction that could even immolate an entire planet of its atmosphere into a burning barren landscape of death - whichever being would survive such devastation, outer stellar radiation and the effects of a dispersing atmosphere would eradicating that poor life in a matter of a single hour.


The will of the entire Hiigaran Empire would shatter at once should it lose its symbolic Homeworld. Too much was at stake… Now, it was the end time of the war to be decided throughout the orbit of the Homeworld, Hiigara, and the Angel Moon. The Sajuuk Dreadnought, reborn by the unity of the Trinity Cores and Karan S'Jet, and its armada of Hiigaran successors desperately fought against the final verdict of Makaan; his wraith executed by vast numbers of loyal Vaygr crusades willing to fight to death and deploy the weapons of mass destruction.


It was a desperate stalemate; however, as the ferocious battles took place, the Hiigaran's were slowly failing throughout these long hours… until a surprising armada appeared right into the thick of the conflict. It was the Khar Hren-Vossat San Amaj, the deep space colonization vessel that acted as a wavefront carrier and brought a battle-scarred armada across the regions. The protective armada of Amaji Prime was war-weary and scarred by the years of terror, but each and every one of them was determined to serve the last stand for Hiigara with their lives.


At last, the integrity of the following Vaygr crusades finally crumbled and slowly began to seize as the Sajuuk and its fleet protected the Homeworld with great effectiveness - however, it was the cause of the Khar Hren-Vossat San Amaj near sacrifice that brought Hiigara to final victory.

The aftermath of this war, you ask?

The remaining crusades fled… retreated.
Despite their near victory, Makaan's death, the resistant devotion of the Hiigarans desperately repelling the attacks and the true Sajuuk'Khar - Karan S'Jet - the Vaygr now questioned their endless crusade… soon leading to turmoil throughout their vast territories. It is unknown what truly happened… or will happen, as all crusades were now… what Hiigaran's would call… a “headless snake”.

Nonetheless, with the Hiigaran Empire's major capitols left in ruins, most of the population was left with nothing. Following the fate of the youngest generation, orphaned children of the war, a vast number not to be underestimated, and people throughout the Hiigaran Empire left with nothing, were brought upon the Khar Hren-Vossat San Amaj to seek a new life upon Amaji Prime - that however was still under control of the Empire's harsh breeding doctrines.


After the years long war, Hiigara and the kiithid throughout and beyond the Hiigaran Empire now faced the outcome. The Khar Hren-Vossat San Amaj returned to Amaji Prime, with it the surviving fleets of the armada and its vast numbers of young civilians. However, the Progenitor vessel was ultimately forced to remain in a geosynchronous anchorage permanently from now on as the stress of severe hyperjumps and predominately its last jump back to Amaji Prime shattered the irreplaceable Progenitor conduits.


This was the also time when major repopulation and breeding regulations and doctrines excelled to their extremes, leading to severe oppressions caused by the Hiigaran Empire upon the Amaji population to rejuvenate the losses of the war. It was this time of oppression that forced individuals among kiithid of Amaji Prime to question these regulations. The rush for rebuilding the Hiigaran Navy and its population was a boarding edge to slavery. Drafts and impelling labor became common to those who dauntingly refused to attain breeding programs or whose breeding grade did not surpass their exceptional notions.

Many assumed the Hiigaran Empire still possessed great fear for a possible return of the Vaygr crusades… Indeed, the Empire was still vulnerable - many of its regions left as an open bleeding wound… and yet, the Vaygr never returned; only separate loyalists and remnants of Makaan's fallen will. Apparently, martyrs only had limited powers.


When the Amaji revolution for kiithid independence took place, it was a miracle that the conflict ended in a standoff between the nations and not in an ultimate bloodshed as the Daiamid of the Hiigaran Empire lastly accepted the Amaji will of freedom and the birth of a true kiith. The acceptance of the Kiith Amaj however brought greater troubles.


Now that the Kiith Amaj was born and accepted, the Daiamid declared Amaji space as true Amaji sovereignty, leading to the extraction of all Hiigaran kiithid; With Amaji Prime being at the farthest rim of the Hiigaran Empire, the extraction order was also a terrifying example to those kiithid willing to seek similar independence from the Empire...

Do not be confused, young mind, but the declaration of independence resembled a double-edged blade none could foresee. Though finally gaining freedom, Amaji Prime was now abandoned by Hiigara's superior navy that protected it from other dangers such as piracy.

Greater numbers of larger kiithid abandoned Amaj as well as they were disgusted of their independence, of course for the loss of their political power and breeding regulations, but also for the sake of their own existence, knowing how terrifying the existing pirates throughout Amaji space were. During this kiithid retreat from Amaji space, another soon debate took place.
Individuals, predominately war veterans and high kiithid politicians, knew that the Kiith Amaj would definitely not survive without the `grown-ups'.


The Amaji population, while consisting of millions bred by the repopulation doctrines - including those many lives brought from Hiigara's ruins - and willing to stand for their freedom, was blood young; how were these youngsters to survive alone or maintain the masses of technological equipment that was about to be left behind in orbit? How were these to learn how to survive and stand on their own feet? It was the thriving culture of these young Amaji that evoked concerns considering Hiigara's abandoning.


It was also a grotesque humor considering the Daiamid's answer when officials denounced Amaj's survival without the Navy… The Daiamid did in fact leave the ships and millions of hardware of all kinds… but recalled the valuable manpower and knowledge.
It became clear within short time… These Amaji were in need of help, elder guidance... Guardians.


They were still of Hiigaran blood, these youngsters, regardless of the Hiigaran Empire neglecting the millions of the new Kiith Amaj. A separate few of kiithid rethought their decisions; a planet free of the Empire's regulations, free of any restrains holding them behind, an orbit full of abandoned or soon-to-be-abandoned vessels of all kinds, a crippled colony ship capable to support life and a star fleet, a planet and a star system full rich of untouched resources, exotic plants and animal life…

The list had no end - yet it was going to a serious undertaking as the pirate cartels of all kinds took note of the Hiigara's retreat. This was also the birth of Kiith Council and High Command to attain its place onboard the orbiting Laputa.


Seen as heroes who continuously fought for the right to live and the freedom of the Kiith Amaj, veterans of the Hiigaran-Vaygr who decided to stay were accepted. Though not many of them decided to stay, they all found a new home upon the planet, Amaji Prime, willing to serve the Kiith Amaj's agenda of enduring freedom, embracing those in need and protecting the planet, its people, its assets, its pride of freedom and the huge orbiting colony vessel now known as… Providence.


Providence prospered greatly over time. The discarded colonization modules and other segments were expanded to support further life, industrial, trade and military means. It was the creativity of the young Amaji that also brought successful innovations. Kiithid supporters, such as Kiith Nabaal and Somtaaw, brought great achievements in expanding industrial integrity and control to support the deep space mining cooperation within the other six nearby systems of the small star constellation.

Minor kiithid also found their uses; those of the Kiith Manaan including individual war veterans proved themselves as true fighter pilots to protect assets against the pirates.
One of the greatest achievement later during the Kiith Amaj's prospering integrity was its frequent energetic aid to the returning Bentusi Enclave in various occasions that led to the assembly and transfer of the most advanced star cruiser to Amaji hands in favoring return, the Vjel-Amaj. The Vjel-Amaj, serving sometime beyond three months, has proven itself to become the Flagship of Amaji pride.


This was the final success that brought certain officials of the Hiigaran Empire in uproar… as the Kiith Amaj finally stood upon its own feet… despite with weak legs. Nonetheless, the Kiith Amaj and its proud nation still must continually face dangerous threats of outer space.

*Time flows forward as Providence and its orbit prospers…*

(End of narration)


= High orbit above Amaji Prime and somewhere deep within one of the many military segments of the massively advanced and expanded colonization vessel today known as Providence. Present day… =

A multitude of youngsters stare at a large screen, anxiously watching a movie broadcasted by one of the many media networks through satellite. Unfortunately, right before the very climax of a breathtaking scene, the screens suddenly flashed, immediately followed by dozens of amaji cadets and operatives jeering. Just following the blackout, a breathless known cadet of the group dashed into the huge lounge.


“Zakk - Dude, what's going on here?!”, somebody yelled from far behind.

“I don't care what's happening, I want to see what the frell happens further in that damn movie!”, another jeered loudly and slapped his hand on his seat, “*sigh* Damn media wavers always cutting the damn waves when they feel like!”, knowing that it was caused by the media network for some reason, “I bet you the half of my paycheck that he was going to say he was his father, dude!”.

“Yeah right”, another one suddenly smirked, “as if that bit of cash was worth to bet that. Doubt that sucker was going to say that!”

“We'll see about that as soon as I -”


Following several flashes upon the huge screen, symbols and animations of the media network suddenly appeared, followed by a orchestral music and a title revealing the words: BREAKING NEWS.

“Aww great. Silly ratings baiting… Bet you some stupid crap his happening again - just to screw our time… All right, somebody flip the channel - please!”

The breathless cadet known as Zakk wove his hands, “Guys! G-Guys!”, he panted several times, “Th-they're back!”
Bugged by the lights being switched on, one of the operatives rubbed his eyes, “They? Who - They? The Hiigaran Empire - back to enslave us for breeding? Or… the Somtaaw paying the Amaj a visit *haha*?!”, he chuckled but wove at a specific young man just steps away, “No offense, Vinnie.”


Right after his smirk, all attention was caught by a news reporter speaking from the screen. The image and quality, as usual, was affected by natural interferences disturbing the signal:


“”Dear viewers. We apologize for the sudden interruption of our feature film program but our cooperating networks have discovered breaking news…””

“Oh please…”

“I guess this is what we get for having an entertainment media broadcaster share its broadcasting rights with a friggin' news network. Betcha we'll see commercials bumping an as -”

“Shh- SHHH!”

“”Apparently, ladies and gentlemen, several civilian-maintained observatory stations have discovered an occurrence somewhere at the edge of Amaji Prime. Editors and network technicians are currently readying an uplink with astonishing viewing material and will soon be ready for broadcast. Until then, I will now report to you the cause of this breaking news event. Ladies and gentlemen”, the reported paused shortly,” A massive vessel of the Bentusi Enclave has emerged from hyperspace…””


Those who were previously bored suddenly stood up. The operative wove them once more to stay quiet.


““Our experts confirm that this is one of the three major Bentusi Harborships interacting throughout various trade routes surrounding Amaji sovereignty. We also can confirm that this is a premiering moment in history of a Bentusi Vessel emerging close to our home planet, Amaji Prime. However, ladies and gentlemen, this is not the only cause of our Breaking News announcement””, pausing once more, the reporter shortly raised his hand to his ear, probably listening to notification over his earplug, “”Dear viewers, we have established a direct uplink to a reporter team of the network currently stationed at observatory. Reporter Elron Dejun, can you hear me?””

At the same moment, one of cadets pointed ahead as he spotted flash-commercials showing up at the edge of the screen.


“”This is Reporter Dejun of Starwave News Networks, yes, we hear you loud and clearly””, another reporter replied just before his image was revealed upon the huge screen of the lounge. Despite his image lacking more in quality and lagging slightly, he was still understandable, “”My team was currently interviewing the crew of this space observatory vessel about their thriving job when their … so-called… gravity wave sensory discovered a tacki - excuse me - a ta-tach-yon… rift at the rim of Amaji Prime's gravity well.
Following this anomaly, a massive energy wave has occurred right after the detection - originating from the same location. The following wave was upon a specific spectrum, surely visible for the naked eye. However, it was unlikely for the citizens down on the planet to see this due to the current daytime across several time-zones. Indeed, the people of this observatory can confirm the hyperspace emergence of the Bentusi Harborship. This has occurred not long ago and we assume that the Navy of the Kiith Amaj has established diplomatic greetings to the Bentusi Enclave. And there is more…””


“”Please, enlighten us, Mr. Dejun.””
Several of the initiate youngsters bunched closer to the screen.

“”*Nods* I apologize for the pause. The observatory crew now has live feed footage for us and is now transmitting the signal live to your broadcasting station. I will comment this astonishing footage.””

“”Very well, Mr. Dejun.””


After a short interruption, the announced live feed signal appeared upon the huge screen; surely to be viewed by all citizens onboard the `Providence' colony ship:

The image revealed the common active throughout the orbit of Amaji prime. Various types of ship classes, astronauts, satellites, drones, military and civilian vessels, mining barges, freighters, orbital stations, even more heavy orbital traffic, Providence anchorage and many other sightings were revealed until the image changed its viewpoints accordingly to the observatory satellite units.

After swapping through several positions, the specific satellite linked several clear signals and focused upon the Bentusi Harborship with remarkably sharp zooms and scans filtering most of the interferences with superb efficiency.

The view of the majestic vessel was amazing as most likely all of them had never seen such a massive alien but beautiful ship with their own eyes… This was nowhere close to the other smaller Bentusi ships they had only seen on old footages and history chips.

“Damn… that thing his HUGE…”
“Whoa…”
“What is it, Vinnie?”

“G-Guys, check it out. Look! Look at what that image is focusing on.”

Many of the young operatives and cadets did not get what he meant at first.

The second reporter spoke slowly, “”Ladies and gentlemen, it appears that we are not only witnessing history being written as of spotting the first approach of a Bentusi vessel to Amaji Prime. The observatory crew has discovered another smaller vessel accompanied by two Bentusi frigates and another pair of… smaller industrial transport… departing from the Harborship - the larger one was at first assumed to be either be a diplomatic or a trade ship - but apparently, they assumed wrongly. The vessel is not of Bentusi origin. Ladies and gentlemen, we are now witnessing the return…””

As the image zoomed further in, several began to recognize what Vinnie meant.

“”The return of the Vjel-Amaj, the Flagship and Pride of the Kiith Amaji Navy!””

Many mouths fell open; all eyes widened.

“”Have I understood you clearly, Mr. Dejun, that the sole cruiser Vjel-Amaj has returned?””

“”Confirmed… b-but… wait…””, the reporter confirmed but then spoke with hesitant words, “”Th-There is something about… it.””
“”It is already a mystery of spotting a naval vessel of the Kiith Amaji Navy departing from a Bentusi Harborship… and for those viewers who have joined us, I would like to recap that we have a breaking news event:
A Bentusi Harborship has emerged at the rim of Amaji Prime and it seems as if the Flagship of the Kiith Amaji Navy has departed from this enigmatic vessel. For those who does not know: The Flagship Vjel-Amaj is the Amaji Navy's most advanced deep space cruiser that entered service three months ago. Serving both the Navy and individual corporations of Amaj, the Vjel-Amaj has served in various operations, including incidents and so-called theaters of conflicts throughout Amaji sovereignty.
Over the last week, however, officials of the Navy have announced that the Vjel-Amaj had undergone a mission, but had not reported back ever since its presumed return and deadline. The officials have not informed citizens about the cause of their mission but it has become clear that notes of concerns have developed throughout the naval authority considering the whereabouts of the Vjel-Amaj. Mr. Dejun - I must apologize, are you still with us?””


As the man spoke, several explanatory taglines revealed themselves along with the images.


“”Not a problem. Yes, we are still live on-air with this feed.””
“”Mr. Dejun. Apparently, there seems… to be something that happened with the Vjel-Amaj. Can you explain, please? ””

“”I… I am not sure - neither are the observatory crewmen of this vessel.””

“Good lords… l-look!”, somebody pointed out on the screen.
“”It seems as if… the Vjel-Amaj was involved… in serious firefights””, the reporter nervously explained, “”If I am seeing things right, there seems to be two… maybe three… sources of smoke development rising from one of its sides. Despite the lack of color, the contrast images reveal several black markings riddled all over the hull the Vjel-Amaj, excluding all visible damages.””

“”Mr. Dejun, considering these markings, I can confirm that these were caused by high energy weaponry.””

“”I beg your pardon?””

“”Throughout previous reportages of ships that have confronted insurgency and turanic piracy, our reporters have stumbled upon similar markings and were told by military expects of our staff that such could only develop by powerful thermal weaponry; One of the common types used by various turanic clans are the highly focused accelerated particle beam cannons. We may speculate that the Vjel-Amaj has confronted such weaponry.””


Ignoring further commentary of the reporters, everybody throughout the lounge approached each other and bunched together; many astonished, others speculating what could have happened throughout the week of disappearance.

One reason why these cadets and operatives were so surprised was the fact that they were the next young generation of civilian supporters willing to serve onboard the most advanced vessel of the Amaji Navy - However, their deployment was delayed due to the missing Vjel-Amaj. They all knew that thriving adventures and experiences awaited them but until now, they - and like many other groups - were forced to stay upon the station… most of the time in boredom during free time or supporting other military assets when on duty. Conversations developed instantly, sprouting even more speculations and possible surprises.

Noticing Vinnie making his way to the exit in a hurry, one of the operatives asked him, “Yo, Vinnie - where you headin'?!”


“Hey, I'm not going to squeeze my face on that darn window like some of you”, he snitched, referring the group of young men and women desperately squeezing the side of their faces upon the projected three dimensional window revealing only a lousy viewing angle to the Bentusi Harborship and the Vjel-Amaj, “Dunno know about you guys, but I'm heading for the main Promenade Deck! Suit yourselves with the crappy images, guys, I'm heading for the real thing… I've gotta see this with my own eyes!”

Vinnie disappeared through the exit that shifted open, immediately followed by the cadet that rushed over to them from the beginning. After a short hesitant moment, all of them suddenly jumped and anxiously raced to the exit…


- A Hero's Return… A Hero's Defeat -

With the Vjel-Amaj and a few ships departing from Bentusi Harborship's side, the battered cruiser quietly drifted to the side before activating certain signal lights.

= Bridge of the Vjel-Amaj =


“Auto-launch set.”

Kelsea suddenly threw a confused glance at Orelis, “S-sir? What are you talking about?”

“Ah, nothing, just so silly urge I always get after undocking. Anyways, can somebody tell me why those other two cargo freighters are dispatching from the Bentusi Harborship with us? I thought the Bentusi imposed departure-lockdown to all other ships besides ours as this is our space.”

“According to their recent message - Th-They belong to us, Commander.“

“What? Why that?”

“Apparently, those two automated transports contain a vast cargo load of purchased goods, equipment and modules… err… purchased by… Chief Logistics officer Dee-”

“NEVERMIND!”, he barked at her but immediately threw his hand upon his face, “Sorry. Just… never-mind-about-it… If I hear that crazy girl's name ONE MORE TIME… I SWEAR…”, and shook his hand with a pointing index finger - however not finding any words to end his swear.


Fenna was on duty again; surprisingly still showing sign of weariness and wearing the same clothes since the last days as if she had not really slept well at all - She quietly rubbed the side of her slightly swollen cheek. Pethera, Ray and Captain Quenton Soban were also present; all them silent as they listened to the bridge barely humming any operational cycles.


“At… At last…”, Kenta's soft voice mentioned from the other side of the bridge.


Catching the attention of several listeners, many turned themselves around. Following Kenta's view, everybody immediately understood her comment. A moment of silence… A moment of relief fell upon the bridge as discovered Providence and its thriving fleet surrounding the orbit of their Homeworld revealed on the main screen.


Amaji Prime's atmosphere shimmered an emerald green that reflected upon everybody's eyes. The atmosphere of this planet belong to one of the most mysterious ones. While supporting life, its natural existence also broke light to the point that made the planet shimmer in different colors depending on angle and viewpoint. Commonly, throughout daytime, the sky would reveal a bright turquoise, dusk would bring a dark violet tone… dawn a dark-to-bright blue entering the day's common color.

Its orbit was nonetheless full of trafficing ships.

“I never expect to be so… happy… W-We made it, everybody! We made it”, Kenta spoke further - and just as she ended her euphoric words, a familiar voice once again surprised most of the bridge crew behind.

“Don't get too cocky”, the grim bridge officer snarled, “I'll first be happy as soon as I plant my feet on that damn place.”
“Commander on deck…”, somebody else sounded.


“Aye…”, a familiar voice said from far behind.

All eyes fell upon a slightly hunched and limping Hiigaran woman accompanied by Dr. Jonas, Aaron Salico in his marine gear and the kadeshi girl in different medical clothes giving by the Bentusi and the doctor.

Hailynn still wore her wrecked clothing, having her severely messed up and stained uniform jacket upon her shoulders like a cape. There was also a significant change in Hailynn appearance, but nobody really could distinguish it. The weary Hiigaran felt old as she limped with a supportive crutch, a cast supporting her left arm and with bandages everywhere - predominately one across one of her eyes.

Pethera did not look upon her at first.

Hailynn's eyes lastly noticed dried stains farther ahead on the plated floor; the coffee stain… and dried spots of her blood that once dripped upon the floor. Immediately wanting to distract herself from those dreadful memories, she turned away and called, “S-Status?”, with a hoarse tone.

“The s-ship at low operational status”, Zann shortly mentioned, “The Bentusi managed to fix a lot of things but the ship is still just barely holding together, Commander. At least, I hope she'll hold together… err, I mean it - it. Trying to get used to that term or else Chief Brogan will scream at me again.”

“Zann”, Hailynn shortly notified, “You won't believe, but the ship really is a… she.”

“Err - What? How that?”, he chuckled slightly, “Not like you happened to take a look between the legs, ma'am, did you?”, he chuckled once more but frowned as he looked at her again… For some reason, it seemed as if she really meant it.


“A-Anyways”, though startled at first, Kelsea shook her head and spoke, “Tr-tracking loads of communication requests from all sorts of sources - over nearly all civilian and military frequencies, C-Commander Delixa...”

“Limit the requests only to high priority frequencies of Providence and the Kiith Navy.”


“U-understood, Commander.”
“Drop the formalities, Kelsea. Let us live this moment through as normal people.”


“Commander… err, Hailey.”, Orelis announced, “I think I can speak for all that we are glad you and the others are all right… We made it. I still can't believe it, but we made it.”


The troubled-looking kadeshi girl slowly followed Hailynn and the doctor closer to the center of the bridge as Orelis straightened his uniform as he spoke further, “Nonetheless… Current status - as Zann hinted -, Commander: Our ship is only minimally operational. Despite those Bentusi drones and our Engineering clearing out most of the mediocre issues, the ship's overall status is far below a true operational status. None of them can really explain this- but this ship went through a lot of trouble <Duh…>. Aside to that, we have cleared the Bentusi Harborship and are accompanied by a pair of automated transport ships issued by Chief Deena purchases… I have no clue why… actually, I wish to forget about that, honestly.”

Hailynn quietly stopped several steps away from him.

“But as you can see, we've made it back to Amaji Prime. Which leads me back to my phrase: I don't know what to say…”


Both of them looked at the rest of the crew that anxiously stared on the surrounding screens. No more Vaygr ships… no more gas clouds… no more of an endless deep of deadspace and the galaxy but the beautiful planet and home they sought for so many days.

“Kelsea.”, Hailynn calmly called out.
“Yes, ma'am?”

“Contact the Bentusi Harborship.”
“On the way…”

Aira ghosted a step further ahead of them but said nothing. Her strange eyes were grey now and focused on the main screen revealing the planet, but she seemed… empty-minded. Hailynn shortly turned her view, noticing Ray, the Captain and Pethera…


“Established. The Bentusi vessel is responding. You may speak.”
“”This is the Bentusi. Souls of Amaj. We have returned you to your Homeworld””, an echoing voice emitted from the speakers, “”Your people awaits your souls with an open embrace.””


Hailynn upheld a long hesitant pause before gaining barely enough courage to speak, “C-Commander Hailynn Delixa here, Bentusi Harborship. I-I don't know how to… thank… you…”


“”Hailynn of Amaj. It is the Bentusi who must thank the Souls of Amaj. The efforts of the Amaji have brought both riches… and wisdom to the Bentusi Enclave. The Bentusi dwells sorrows… nonetheless… Your kind and your souls have suffered great illness. Returning your souls to Amaj is the least the Enclave wills…””

“Commander Orelis here. I wish to apologize for all the troubles we have brought to you and the other… traders… onboard your vessel. We really hope we did not evoke any… hatred… for we have enough of that to deal with.”


“”It was the Enclave's intent to return the Vjel-Amaj and its souls to its Homeworld. Never shall we refrain from our will. If your souls ever require aid, never refrain from summoning the Bentusi… We may be far - but we will always… listen. Alas, Souls of Amaj, the songs of peace is calling us… We must -… continue.””
“Farewell”, Orelis called out, soon to be followed by Hailynn's following response, “On behalf of the Kiith Amaj and the entire crew of the Vjel-Amaj, we thank you in deep reverence for your sacrificial support. We will never - ever - forget this - I promise this to the last breath of my life, I will never forget this. This is Hailynn Delixa, Commander of the Vjel-Amaj bidding…farewell… May peace and pride prevail.”


“”Never fear fate and it future. Your thriving souls can form fate. Souls of Amaj, continue your enduring strive for freedom and the protection of those in need. Farewell, Souls of Amaj - Farewell... unbound… soul of kadesh.””


After a long drift away from the Bentusi vessel, the Vjel-Amaj and the two remaining cargo transporters were left behind as the Harborship vanished with the tachyon wavefront slipping alongside its hull.

The lost-minded Aira quietly lowered her view. The presence of the Bentusi vanished, leaving her behind with her silent mind.


Hearing several sounds of high priority, Kelsea's station received a specific request that scared her slightly, “Commanders… Communication request - High Priority. It is Kiith Amaji High Command - originating from Providence.”
Nervous impulses disturbed numerous people.

“Ha - here they come…”, Orelis snarled again.
“Confirm the signal, Operative Kelsea - I will speak with them”, Captain Quenton suddenly commanded.

“S-sir?”, both Orelis and Kelsea simultaneously asked with a surprised tone.
“Do as he orders, Kelsea”, Hailynn notified to Kelsea, “No exceptions. He is still the Captain.”

The confused operative combed the fringe of her hair before confirming the uplink, “High Command, this is the Vjel-Amaj responding to your question. Confirmation codes dispatched and verified on your behalf. Captain Quenton of Kiith Soban is ready to speak with you, over.”


After a short pause, a deep voice responded to her call, “”Vjel-Amaj. This is Commodore Yor of Amaji High Command. Captain Soban, please report.””


“Commodore Yor”, the Captain spoke clearly, “On behalf of the crew, I must solicit High Command for forbearance. Commodore, the crew and the Vjel-Amaj has endured great struggles and suffering during our rescue operation. We have uncovered greater troubles and developments throughout our traverse throughout the M'randara Star System. As of such circumstance, it is inevitable that our discoveries are to be kept confidentially, sir. With all due respect, Commodore Yor, due to the fact that our vessel is at low operational status, our ship is… unable… to approach Providence with a higher velocity.
Apparently, our approach may take approximately three hours until docking”, he explained and shortly met his view with Hailynn, ”High Command, I wish to transfer a ciphered full report ahead as an… raw… insight on our journey before our arrival upon Providence anchorage to High Command and… possibly before the Visarjan-drill and the hearing.”
Orelis immediately laid his hand on his face… , <Aww come on… Not a drill…>.


There was long pause until Commodore Yor of High Command responded. The man apparently wanted answers… but still concurred with the Captain's request, “”Captain Soban. Though High Command wishes to learn immediately about the cause of your current return and status, the other officials of High Command concurs with your request and awaits your report eagerly. Nonetheless, Captain, High Command is pleased of your return. I assume the civilian population of Amaj have discovered your return likewise.””


“…<no shit>…”, Orelis whispered to himself as he spotted several micro explosions occurring upon separate arks of the far away orbital trafficing ships… static flares launched as celebration fireworks.


“”Vjel-Amaj. High Command awaits your return upon Providence and will welcome you by Visarjan Traditions. Though it being only a week, your presence was missed by many throughout Amaj. Vjel-Amaj, Providence space port control will contact you for the appropriate docking profile. Pride… and welcome back… This is Commodore Yor of Amaji High Command. Over and out.””


The grim commanding officer shook his head again. If there was one thing Orelis hated, then it was one of those traditional things the crews of the Navy frequently had to partake when departing or boarding the renowned Mothership of Amaj. Usually, such Visarjan-Drill was a sort of muster and militaristic presentation of a departing or returning crew of a naval vessel.

The entire crew would row themselves alongside the commanding officers to proudly salute the superior admiralty - then a conversation would be held between the officers and the admiralty… even with the crew's executive to ask permission to board the Mothership… Orelis shook his head again and cursed why they would not let them just dock up and finally get their well-deserved break. Most likely, it was going to be some exaggerated publicity; surely to have media reporters and cameras all around them on the far outside.

Captain Quenton quietly arranged his uniform, “Commanders, I will soon be heading to my quarters to transfer my report.”

“Captain, sir?”, an operative suddenly asked.
“Yes?”

“Sir, excuse my questioning, but we are we going to continue our approach with such a slow drift to Providence. I mean, albeit the ship being barely operational, the ship is still able to maintain a secure cruise flight… or not… sir?”

Before the Captain answer, his view focused on Hailynn, “I suggested this pace. Operative Eliss, you must learn that the crew is under the shock of homecoming. We must… become aware of the fact that the return to the Homeworld leaves us with… great concerns for our future.”


Hailynn had to thank the Captain once more, for she knew that his comment of delay was a slight gift to her, granting her time of thoughtfulness - but as she turned her view away from him, Hailynn rubbed her face in disgrace.

“…A… week…”, somebody else mentioned, “… We were gone for seven days…?”

“No way… it had to be longer!”, another logistics operative commented, still not believing the real truth, “It can't be!”

“”Providence Space Control contacting the Vjel-Amaj. D-Do you read me?!””, a female voice called over; most likely one of the various space traffic controllers calling for them.
Linking his comm unit to the signal, Kelsea connected Orelis' unit with ease and gave him the hand signal for him to speak.
“Commander Orelis here. We hear you loud and clearly, Space Control. Requesting a viable docking port and support for our arrival, over.”

“”Copy that. Transferring secured docking route to your navigational computer - and will soon be dispatching several docking support corvettes to aid your approach as requested, Vjel-Amaj. Your drift will take two-dash-three-five hours with the current approach. It'll be a long trip, so enjoy it. H-High Command has also ordered several security patrols to cover your return as we have discovered several civilian vessels approaching your location. Nevertheless, Vjel-Amaj, we are pleased to see you back in safety - and as for the staff and those… crazy… people out there - Welcome Home - Space Control, over and out!””


Right at the end of the broadcast, Kelsea jumped in surprise as she discovered an emergency broadcast, “I-Incoming transmission! Urgent SOS signal -”, she yelled with the sudden, “A-Amaji distress beacon!”

“What you say?!”, Orelis barked from further away.

“Coming in now! Signal is originating over subspace frequencies, lag rate approximately around twelve minutes since its dispatch - somewhere within this star system… Planet XIII - outer ring…”


Hearing the emergency broadcast, the Captain immediately noticed Hailynn sudden reaction, “Commander Delixa… Do not…”


Indeed, Hailynn already had her hand holding her replacement radio communicator. It was an instinctive reaction. Surprisingly, her righteousness nearly ignored their status.

“Whoa.. Hailey… You really were…”, Orelis stuttered.


Interstellar distress calls like these were common, usually having pirates trying to raid the miners or other individuals throughout the system. In response to the distress, Providence would immediately divert patrols or dispatch peacekeeping units to the designated location.

“…Y-You are so frakking crazy, Hailynn…”, Fenna's voice sounded from far ahead.

Her comment caught everybody's attention as she removed herself from the helm, surprisingly.

“Ensign”, Orelis suddenly said to her, “I'm glad you were punctual for duty, but nobody said you were relieved of duty - so… sit back down and maintain the helm!”

Standing further ahead of them, everybody stared upon Ensign Fenna who quietly stood with her head lowered; her eyes barely visible by the fringe of her hair. Fenna's appearance was still affected by the stress of their previous adventures. The surrounding operatives of the bridge wondered and whispered to each other why she was ignoring Orelis' orders.

“Are you deaf, Ensign? I ordered you to -”


“SHUT UP!”, Fenna barked at him, “I've had it with your goddamn insults!”, and turned her view over to Hailynn, “And you're crazy, Hailynn! I can't believe you really insisted to have us head out to rescue those people in distress! Frakk, I know they're our guys but - for frakk's sake, WE JUST GOT BACK HOME!”

“ENSIGN FENNA - REIN YOUR MOUTH, WOMAN!”

“Oh, shut up! Enough of this `Ensign this - Ensign that' shit!”, the angry amaji woman yelled at them. Fenna suddenly snapped and pulled several emblems from the collar of her shirt, tossing them on the floor without any sign of respect for the symbols.


“All right, Ensign… What is this about?”
“I said, no more `Ensign' shit, Com-Man-Der Orelis. I'm quitting my job - right now!”
“What?!”

The standoff between the two was getting uglier by the second.


“You heard right, man. I quit! I am no longer the frakking pilot of this freaking ship! I'm SICK AND TIRED of being told and screamed at like some goddamn dog! All of you! All of you on this frakking ship frequently made a fool out of me…
All this time through! Nobody really came on the idea to actually thank me for… for… for ANYTHING! Some of you fools are forgetting that it was I who had to take over the helm of this ship!”, Fenna barked once more as she detached other things from her jumpsuit along the earplug and the shoulder-mounted communication unit, “Granted, I screwed up in many occasions, I won't DENY that… but it's not like I'm some sophisticatedly trained pilot like Hailynn, or?!”, after angrily shrugging with a pause whilst hearing no answer, her hands slapped upon the side of her thighs and tossed both hands openly, ”Just because I wasn't able to fly a damn ship through a frakking COMET…?!
After Hailynn got herself slapped and beaten beyond recognition - it was I who got us through all this trouble! Even with Hailynn yelling at me - it was still I who brought us through that massacre in space!”


“You are a goddamn operative in service of the Kiith Amaj, woman! How dare you act up like this, disrespectfully! I'll assume you're just a mess-up - and messed up like the rest of us, Fenna - but I won't tolerate you trying to go AWOL - so get your butt BACK on that helm or I'll have you arrested! Don't mess with my patience!”

“Go ahead! I'm never really was a true MEMBER of this crew… or FAMILY of yours…”


“Orelis…”, Hailynn voice calmly spoke from behind, “Cease your words… please.”
“Wh-What ?”


“Ah, looks like at least Hailynn knows I may quit”, Fenna explained with a harsh voice, “You all are forgetting that I'm a damn contract pilot! A contract is a contract is a contract - and that contract only declared me to get this ship to whatever places you guys wanted to head to and to bring this ship back to Amaji space! Along with that contract, it is still said that I may end all terms once we return to Amaji space; anytime on my behalf - Henceforth, I am no longer in need to support your stupid commands as the so-called helmswoman of this ship!”

Everybody remained speechless. Apparently, Hailynn knew of this as she was the one who actually contracted Fenna. It was amazing how she acted up to the others, but seeing things from her side, she was in fact being shouted at and insulted for countless things - even though she was an inexperienced helmswoman right at the helm of the most advanced and sophisticated vessel in the navy.


“Fenna…”, Hailynn's hoarse voice sounded, “If you want to scream at somebody, please divert your anger to… me; not to Orelis. You are right, Fenna. We all… including myself - never thanked you… This is my sole mistake… but I guess it is far too late for any apologies - as nearly all of my deeds are inexcusable. Nevertheless, I will accept your… decline.”


“So… is that it, Hailynn, you're letting her go?”, Orelis threw his arms up and down, “You just going to let her leave like that and let the ship drift along without anybody on the helm?”
The bridge hummed its usual noise several times as the arguments suddenly ended. Fenna shook her head and arranged her jacket. It was already embarrassing for her how she reacted, but she no longer cared, “I've been everybody's fool long enough. I'm leaving. I'm heading to my quarters and I will be staying there until this ship has finally docked up. I don't know about all of you, but I, for my side, did my job - Ray, I want you to come with me.”


Demanding Ray to follow her, Fenna made swift steps, bypassing Orelis, several stations with stunned operatives and Hailynn. Shortly stopping, Fenna made a moving head gesture towards the tall Vaygr to follow her… when suddenly…


“Corporal Salico”, Hailynn's voice suddenly sounded.
“Yes, Commander?”, surprised to hear his name, Aaron straightened himself. Though at first wondering why she called for him, he assumed he was going to have to arrest Fenna for her disrespectful acts after all… but it all came differently.

“Corporal. I wish you to arrest…”, Hailynn demanded with an utmost firm voice, “… Ray.”
“As you wish… wha- wait, m-ma'am?”, Aaron confirmed but then suddenly stammered, “Excuse my questioning, ma'am - D-did I hear right? I am to -”
“Arrest Ray. Arrest him and have him brought to the brig.”

Nearly all eyes but those of the Vaygr, the Captain and Hailynn widened. Silence filled the bridge, followed by Fenna whose heart skipped a beat. It was a surprise that confused everybody as Hailynn requested the single marine of the bridge to arrest the Vaygr who actually supported the Amaji and his people with his life all this time through. Aaron also threw confused views upon the taller Vaygr, Orelis and the wrecked Hiigaran officer.

“…”, the young marine hesitated.

“H-Hailey… Aren't you… confusing… some things here?”, Orelis dared to ask and slowly approached her.
Fenna remained paralyzed as Hailynn turned around to Ray and Fenna who stood further behind, “Ray…”

“M'lord…”

Hail ynn slowly straightened her back, albeit sensing the pain, “Ray, you are under arrest and will be brought to the brig. Following kiithid regulations considering asylum-seekers in connection to Vaygr affairs, you are to be considered as an arrested entity due to your status until further notice. Kiithid members and advocates of the Amaji Council will attend with your case once this ship has returned to Providence. I am sorry, Ray, but you will remain in custody for an indefinite time upon this ship until your case is closed. Your heroic efforts for the Vaygr-Hiigaran refugees onboard and the Vjel-Amaj will be taken in account… I will make sure of this… but until then, you must concur. Vaygr Ray, have you understood these terms?”

“I have foreseen this to happen. As I have thought from the very beginning: I am and will be a prisoner of war… but yes… I understand… by your command.”


Cold sweat ran down Fenna's forehead. Nervous sweat… She had to make a decision…


“Henceforth, Corporal Salico, you are ordered to -”
“Frakk this!”, Fenna suddenly yelled and hastily turn around with stretched arms.

Shocking nearly everybody, the sounds of surprised voices went through the entire bridge.

“HOLY SHIT! Not-FRAKKING-again -!”, Orelis yelled as he stared at a nervous gunpoint aimed towards Hailynn, “PUT THAT FRAKKING GUN DOWN!”

“Y… Y-YOU MONSTER!”, Fenna shrieked at Hailynn, ignoring everybody's remarks to lower her aim, “AFTER ALL… AF-After all this c-crap I've… d-done for you…!”


The anxious amaji woman frequently threw her wild aim at everybody who dared to move a muscle before aligning it back upon the wrecked Hiigaran officer who quietly leaned upon her crutch. Several operatives ducked and cowered as her aiming swung over their heads.

Orelis' eyes crossed path with Pethera's… knowing exactly what memories he recalled - and now it was an ultimate standoff between the instable Fenna and the unarmed Hailynn Delixa.

Stupid enough, he cursed inwardly for not having confirmed everybody of returning their sidearms despite the inactive security level… He should have known…


Fenna continuously muttered towards Hailynn, “… I've had it with your… madness… Chasing wars… Killing… You and y-your frakking craves and lust for killing people… Y-You've yelled enough to me now, WOMAN, you hear me?! I am not going to let you stand between Ray and my life - I LOVE HIM… and I am not going to let you stand b-between…”


Fenna once again confirmed what all rumors and gossips spread throughout the crew; she was indeed an Amaji that fell in love with the tall Vaygr. The young thrilled amaji stuttered and sobbed further words whilst being at the edge of crying , yet still maintaining her vicious threatening against the Hiigaran.

The handgun, the standard issue silvery service pistol, nervously shook, emitting frequent but faint crickling sounds. Sweat made it difficult for her unease aim. Fenna stood many steps away from Hailynn and only a few away from the others… With a nervous aim like that one, many doubt she was actually going to be able to land a hit… unless the worse may happen. It was that moment again, a gunpoint upheld in the bridge - only needing a sudden reaction to have the nervous finger pull the trigger.


“…N-never… going to let you… stand between us… You… may have righteously protected the Kadeshi, Hailynn… following their crazy… legacy and stories for the sake of that kadeshi girl… but I'm not going to let you take Ray a-away from me!”, tears ran down both of her cheeks; the slightly bruised side becoming more visible to her blushed face, “Your mindless… executions even killed off many of those… w-who wished to surrender… and WANTED to join us, Hailynn!”


Hailynn shadowed right eye suddenly raised itself into the light…

What was Fenna talking about?

Without warning… Aira moved forth until she unexpectedly walked before Hailynn. The girl silently put herself between the two women… but was unfortunately too small to actually cover the Fenna's anxious aim, “… w-what is this?! Don't tell me y-you want to sa-sacrifice yourself for that woman, Aira! Move… MOVE!”

Another person made a large circle around them, immediately catching the aim of Fenna's gunpoint. Another surprise that left several operatives in astonishment; As the straight and silky black haired woman with micro implants positioned herself before Aira, Pethera now quietly stood before the aim of Fenna.


“What?! You too…?! What… WHAT THE FRELL IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE…”, Fenna made a nervous step backwards whilst aiming her gun at random targets, “R-Ray… pl-please… let us leave… this place…! PLEASE… Pl-”


Suddenly, at the very moment the last words left Fenna's lips, a sudden movement occurred from the side. The movement was so lightning fast, that Fenna's flawed senses failed to react to the occurrence. With time flowing slowly, Fenna turned her head and suddenly discovered the figure of the marine, Aaron Salico, leaping straight towards her within a single movement; an expected blitz assault. Unfortunately, the nervous amaji paralyzed as the jolt of surprise and sudden fear froze all of her movements.


Within this single moment, Aaron assaulted her - attempting to overwhelm her!


Tears were randomly thrown from her face as the young marine assaulted the armed woman along with her voice desperately shouting. Those who willed to engage immediately cowered back down as the gun's aim frequently swung uncontrollably. Obviously… the smaller stressed, weaker and inexperienced amaji woman was no significant match to the skills of the young marine.
As first `kushane' method of disarming failed, Aaron had no choice to but to execute his expertise… Fenna's painful shrieks scared nearly everybody as the handgun suddenly slid elsewhere alongside the floor before a specific person - The pain emitting from the joints of her limbs excelled as Aaron skillfully performed a disarming maneuver… Fenna desperately wrestled with the stronger man… so rough and hard that a small bit of her saliva even drizzled from her mouth…


But then… “*nnngh… -*”, the bridge suddenly silenced along with Fenna's sobbing scream… Nearly her entire breath left her lungs … Just a single moment before, Aaron threw the arms of the amaji woman upwards followed by a not so powerful - yet painful - elbow blow to her solar plexus. The nervous reflex caused by the most accurate blow did its devilish deed…

Fenna's body received the blow without warning; being breathless and stunned for this single moment, Fenna bent and fell to her knees. Having no regrets, Aaron immediately knocked her torso forwards, causing both face and body to meet with the floor, followed by Aaron tackling her down whilst grappling her arms behind her back. Fenna's tears dripped upon the floor. Her face was red… she craved for breath, vainly trying to speak… she quietly sobbed, “H-help me… Ray”.


The Vaygr quietly picked up the handgun that slid before his bulked feet, only to grab it by the shaft of the muzzle and offer it to Orelis, who immediately took it from him. Nearly everybody was shocked. At the end of the event, two operatives suddenly entered the bridge and also stopped at once as they discovered everybody staring upon the marine and the tackled operative, not knowing what was going on.
"I will not resist."


“Commander Delixa - I'm sorry, ma'am, but I am going to arrest this woman as well”, Aaron suddenly notified, “- with your permission, of course.”, pulling out something from his utility pouches from his back, Aaron slipped versatile cuffs upon Fenna's wrists, “Sorry, Fenna - but it is my duty to protect those of this ship - and your life.”


Doctor Jonas caught his mind again and immediately rushed to Fenna, “Get off her! You're crushing her respiratory system! <All right, just stay calm - you'll be able to breathe normal in a few secs… just breath slowly - or you will faint. Slowly… >”

“Anyways… I assaulted you because I noticed the handgun on safety mode…”


Fenna did not listen to him but stared to the side with her face to floor, staring at Hailynn, Ray and the others who stood before her way… The defeated Amaji bit her teeth together… she failed…

Thank goodness, Orelis thought as he stared at the pistol. The handgun was still indeed safe. Obviously, Fenna did not have any real skill in using handguns either - thankfully.
Pethera only turned around, throwing a single glance upon Hailynn before returning to her seat. It was a cold glance… a dominant glance, silently whispering, your life is my property…

“Orelis?”, Hailynn suddenly asked, “What was Fenna referring to just moments before?”

“E-Excuse me, Hailey?”, he nervously asked as he removed his view from the handgun, “*sigh* Hold on, Hailey <You two operatives back there - and you, next to me, take this gun and get it to the armory. I want Fenna to be locked up at her quarters until further notice and guarded by an operative sentry and Ray to be brought to the brig… Stat!>”


“I'm going with her”, the doctor sounded loudly but then shook his head at several people; his pause was noticeable, questioning everybody's common sense, “This is madness… what has happened to all of you… You all have lost your minds…”


“Fenna's recent remark - She referred to people willing to surrender - p-people I killed?”


At the same moment Aaron lifted the defeated Amaji to who weak legs, Fenna desperately spoke lowly at first, “Those taiidans… turanics… H-hail- ”, she gasped several times…

“Tell me about them! What is it?!”, now it was Hailynn who became nervous.

“Hailey…”, Orelis remarked, “I don't think you are going to like to hear this… but the turanics… and the single taiidan… They were not… our… enemies…”


Hailynn's face changed slightly, “What do you mean? They came on our ship along with those Vaygr - They INVADED us… and killed several of our peop-”


“Because some of them were forced Hailynn. Granted, a selected few were still too loyal and crazed to serve the Vaygr… but… according to the negotiations I partook alongside with the Captain, Corporal Salico and a few operatives, we've spoken with their leader - One of the many descendants of the taiidan empire and turanic kingdom. Her name is Del… Dil… no, Delophane Vamaii, Taiidan Lieutenant. Along with her was her taiiranic halfsister, Beii Keljin, and a lots of turanics.
L-listen, this is the probably going to shock you, Hailynn, but they wished to surrender. They all had no choice back then - Not any of the taiidan-turanics did back at the M'randara Star System all this time through. They were forced to serve the Vaygr.
Those Kadeshi Seeker guys killed a lot of them and stole that one… Core… from them. I can't really recall all of it, but I tell you, Hailynn, they were never our true enemies - heh, well, they definitely had several bad apples, Vamaii did not deny that, but there were many throughout their ranks that always looked for some sort of… salvation, a way out of that cursed mess. When a few of them latched themselves onto our ship, they found it to be the smartest thing to do:
To board the ship to surrender and beg for asylum out of that madness. They just wanted to survive. They were accompanied by Vaygr units - We… unfortunately…”, his words took great significance as he spoke slower, “killed the group that was full of the taiidan-turanic people - it also had another small group with Vaygr infiltrators - It was for the sake of our people... but we could have still… saved some of their lives. It was when you ordered that procedure to surge that side of the ship through hyperspace fields.”


Fenna forced Aaron to stop a moment, “Y-you heard right, Hailynn. You killed s-several *gasps* of those people who wanted to flee that madness…”, she viciously mentioned, ” You never insisted to negotiate with them - you just alarmed the crew to get to the guns… frell… you just ran off and decided to go and kill everybody on the way - screwing up everybody's lives -!
You're a goddamn drug-addicted psychopath - I was there for you *gasps* when you were vomiting your soul out of yourself… and this is the thanks for all the crap I did for you, huh, HUH?!”


“All right, enough of this!”, Orelis barked at Fenna, “You, lady, off the bridge! Salico, operatives, you have your orders! Get to it!”, signaling the others to take Ray and Fenna away.


The Captain only quietly hid his face under the rim of his officer's cap, only to recall what a wise man once said, Love hurts…


As Fenna was carried away, she frequently yelled at Hailynn with her husky voice, frequently repeating all that Hailynn had done wrongly - with the cause of deaths, if not, murders upon those who only seek blood truce and peace. You hear me, the husky voice of the woman desperately yelled over again, decrying on Hailynn's conscience. Fenna and others disappeared as the rear access doors closed…


“Hoo boy”, Orelis commented, “Just when I thought what was said on her record was the tip of the iceberg… This is not really going to make it look any better once -”, he halted his speech as he looked over to Hailynn, “Hailey- ?”


Hailynn just stood there…

Making only a short glimpse back at him, Orelis silence only revealed that all of it was true. Before he said anything, Hailynn hid her single eye and dared a look at the beautiful planet and its orbit… Amaj's open embrace awaited the return of their heroes.

However, before one could react, Hailynn suddenly turned away, her path aiming for the exit of the bridge on the other rear side of the bridge. Her movement was so swift and desperate that she dropped the crutch, regardless of what intense pain emitted with each step.


Orelis remained speechless as he quietly observed Hailynn rushing her way out of the bridge, soon crossing Pethera's view again… witnessing the edge of her mouth forming a faint, spiteful smile. Noticing a small figure stopping next to him when the access door sealed behind Hailynn's exit, he spotted the kadeshi girl quietly halting her movement as she held her arms up for some reason… but when she lost sight of Hailynn, her arms slowly fell to her sides.


Aligning his view upon the main screen, he knew the return to Amaj was going to be Hailynn's end… Thoughts filled his mind… He needed to prevent this… somehow -maybe there was a way, but before he made further thought, he immediately raised his voice, “All right - If I see another operative running around with a gun here… IF I SEE ANOTHER OPERATIVE JUMPING THE GUN... I SWEAR I'll...!”


= Minor storage compartment - Executive Deck… not far from the bridge =


*Clunck* - The access door closed behind her. Just by listening, it appeared as if nobody was within this small area loaded with equipment. Auxiliary lighting lit this quiet place with a dark crimson tone. The air was thick; unlikely that anybody had been in here for a while…

Hailynn thought she could make to her quarters but apparently, the path all the way there was far too painful. There were far too many operatives were moving along the long corridors - avoiding them was near impossible. Every hasted step she made exhausted her; every movement causing imminent pain. She simply could not continue… Barely able to hide from another small group of operatives, Hailynn took the next access door that was closest to her.


Single tears suddenly met with the cold floor as she slid downwards. More pain emitted from her sore left eye… Tears… more tears filled the bandages. It was pure agony that stunned her as she burst into tears. Losing control of emotions, Hailynn sobbed as her psyche shattered into millions of pieces. All of her misery surfaced at once.


Failures… so many failures. Many lives were lost; lives that could have been rescued. Even more lives were lost by her recklessness - Lives that only wished to beseech the Amajis for asylum and truce. What has she done…?


Her sore right hand frequently slammed against the floor.
She murdered them - Cold Blood. Mindlessly. Her twisted ego made her kill anything that evoked threat and hatred. Memories recalled as she fought for her life against turanic gunmen… ruthlessly… Despite the fact that was defending her life, it was the dreaded thought of killing that disgusted her deeply. She hated herself.

Gods…

The Kadeshi Seekers… Aira - She nearly forgot about them. She fought for their sake… promising that the Kiith Amaj would return to aid them… that she would return rescue them from the devilish hordes… but knowing that she was going to be executed, how was she to rescue them now? How was Aira's future going to be?


With Asad escaping his guilt, Hailynn was now left with nothing in hand.


She choked slightly as she cried with deep agony.
Surrounded by thick walls, her moaning dirges never left the room. She tried to look upon herself. Her legs and arms were still full of scratches - despite most of the injuries reconstructed and healed by Bentusi cell nanobots, the injuries were still present… emotionally.

The pain intensity of her left shoulder was devastating… she still sensed the round that smashed against her radio unit like a twisting knife still drilling itself into the very deep of flesh and bone. Her left eye ached so intensively that she tried cried out once more but failed as one of her lungs was only partially repaired.


Fenna was right… Hailynn was indeed a monster, an abomination between a living being and a killing machine.
The defeated Hiigaran suddenly smiled for a faint moment. Everybody assumed her being a hero - How could she be one? And now? She was a Krin'Sa… soon to be sentenced to death!


Her psyche became out of control - no longer able to suppress what her mind and soul had to absorb all this time through; The addiction being the least of her problems. The walls circled her… her eyes frantically wandered as she cried further. There was no chance that any being could survive with such pain.
She is alone… cornered… Once again, alone and cornered like the first time many years ago… with no escape… bleeding all of her sorrows through her eyes…

 

**

= Orbit of Amaji Prime =


Over two hours later. Throughout this time, the Vjel-Amaj and its two automated cargo transports continued their approach towards Providence Anchorage. During the entry into the orbital territory of Amaji Prime, it became clear that the return was going to be more than just a mere excitement; noticeably, more celebratory activity occurred from the individuals the closer they came to the planet's orbit. The huger support vessels of Providence, the so-called Chinampas, held their positions throughout the vicinity.

The space controllers, the security forces and the plethora of individuals soon encircled the vicinity of Amaji cruiser as it slowly entered the typical and appropriate trajectory to the port module while leaving a trail of thin smoke. Another surprise was the given right of way along the trajectory path that had the Vjel-Amaj and its small group drifting along with much vacant space. Usually, an endless row of ships would be entering this curved flight path for docking upon the various sorts of ports, slots and docking anchorage alongside Providence's broad maritime modules.

**

Escorted by a small group assigned by the space controllers, the Vjel-Amaj was supported by several of the Navy's sophisticated assault frigates to maintain the safety perimeter and pairs of the controllers' versatile space corvettes latched upon its hull; serving as vital maneuvering supports due to the battered shape of the vessel.


= Bridge =

Much later after the events that occurred upon the bridge, the crew had yet to face the shock of homecoming. The bridge itself was moderately lit, having each station illuminated with its individual setting of artificial lighting and had several groups chattering. Most of them have already finished packing up their gear and belongings from their quarters.

“Wow…”, Koji, one of the surveillance operative said to the others.

Staring upon various screens, a mixed group of bridge operatives from various fields were astonished as they witnessed all that was going on throughout the intercepted media and wave links. Nearly every found cycle of signals led to various channels, programs and broadcastings dealing with the return of their ship; from documentaries, commercials, reporters and newsgroups, talk rounds with prominent experts to some science fiction series based on the Hiigaran and Amaji Navy and its assets.

**

“Gods… We're almost on every channel”, Koji sighed as he scanned other frequencies, “Picking tons of references to us - from the waves to the infolinks.”
At least it was a civilization out there.

“Well, what can you expect from us being gone for… a week?”, another colleague snitched.

“Ha-ha… Yeah. It's just crazy”, another navigation operative commented as she crossed her arms, “Anyways, I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait to get back.”


“Oh, really, Sunoga? What's the rush?”
“Husband, my son. You know… `life'…”
“Oh yeah… yeah”, the surveillance operative replied and turned his head back to the screens, “Now that you mention it, I'm not sure…”

“Hm? Sure about what?”

**

The others who surrounded the sitting young man looked down upon him as he spoke his thoughts, “- Actually, I'm not sure what to do once we're back. I mean, yeah, I'm happy we made it back home - but once we're there, I just don't know what to do. I'm just surveillance operative, you know. I don't have a family - or really anybody waiting for me, to be honest. Frell, I might as well sign up for immediate duty and hop on the next ship heading out somewhere out in this constellation.”

“Don't. Please don't. Not even if you were a workaholic”, Sunoga begged firmly.

Koji frowned; He is a workaholic.

A slight pause went through the group before somebody else noticed, “Well, you all can be sure about many of the operatives who are willing to resign - should it be from active duty or totally. Fenna was the first one to do it - well, the… unorthodox way. But one thing is for sure, people - Hazard pay - and that on top of all our salaries. The best of it: it's assured that we're getting a big chunk off it, too, and I doubt there will be many of the current crew left over.”
Several nodded.


“Pff”, somebody else snitched, “I'll first believe it when it's on my account. Besides, there are tons of junior operatives just waiting to get on this ship… oh, and until that can happen, the Navy has to fix this ship first - but about us: We pulled the three month shift through. We've done our job. We deserved it, so… we can freely make some space for them… `newbies'.”


“Aye”, Zann noted from their side, “The ship's is still hurt - badly, mates. I guess she… no, it… <wait a minute, the Commander said the ship was a she after all> - ah whatever, the ship will surely need several weeks at Assembly Port to get back to basic operational status. I doubt that VJ will take part on anything for a long while.”

“Yeah. True, true.”
“Hey, Koji”, the navigation operative said privately to the surveillance officer as the others spoke further with each other, “Look, I know you could need some company - like all of us. Say, why don't you join up with my small family and I? You're pretty much part of it already. I'm sure some others here will join up.”

“Uhm…”


Sunoga knew Koji well enough to know that his hesitation was actually buying time to form an excuse.


“Take it as an invitation you can't deny”, she winked.
“*sigh* All right, all right…”
“Good. Hope to see you with us after the Visarjan-Drill. All right, I better get back to Kelsea before she gets a seizure. She'll be needing my help navigating this ship to Providence.”

Meanwhile. Quan, who quietly observed the bunch talking with each other at the other side of the bridge, slowly turned himself back to the observation station and stretched himself a few times. Making a short glimpse to his right side and further ahead, he noticed Kenta's nervous hands reaching out for a set several buttons on her side and then disappearing back in front the seat of the sophisticated helm station.

**

“Hey, Kelsea, How's it -?”, he called out but noticed her hand reappearing, waving a desperate `not now! I'm busy'.

Apparently, Kelsea was already stressed out with the loads of tasks left open by Fenna. Not only did the poor senior communication operative had to uphold contact with the controllers, she also had to maintain the helm and frequently listen to instructions given by the supporting corvettes and other officials directing her navigational orders.


With the Vjel-Amaj being in such bad shape, her extreme inexperience and the gravity of the planet hindering most of the ship's own gravity maneuverability, Kelsea had many difficulties to put up with - noticeable by having earplugs of Fenna and her radio unit in each ear. Maintaining the degree of the trajectory approach was not an easy task with conventional -but malfunctioning - vernier thruster. Having the screens' background of Providence loaded with digital information, other ships, vectors and the huge planet behind moving due to the change of perspective did not make matters easier but scarier for her.


Once again, Quan turned back to his station and looked at his sister and the absent-minded kadeshi girl, hoping he could evoke some conversation, “Man, everybody busy. How're you doing, sister? You look uncomfortable.”


One of the greatest achievements of the observatory station were its comfortable seats. Though all seats had a lean-back function, these seats offered more beyond the angle. Due to the fact that such sophisticated station with its broad amount of assets needed to be economically fitted into the bridge, it was common to see the astronomers leaned back on a near bed-like position, viewing through sophisticated scopes, visors - some would even say `periscopes by cable' - in order to see live feed images caught by sensory and observatory systems.

The observatory station itself was the perfect line resembling between old fashion and future technology.

Both Kenta and Aira quietly laid upon the leaned seat; the kadeshi girl laying upon Kenta as both viewed the surroundings through all sorts of observatory systems. Throughout this time, it seemed as if the view also evoked distant reminiscences as Aira stared upon it; her hands frequently rubbing smoothly upon `Kadesha's Eye and Tear' as she silently spoke prayer.

Though Kenta already had seen the invisible beauties flowing throughout and above the atmosphere of Amaji Prime many times, the captured live images of the spectral hazes left her in astonishment.

It was neither clear where nor how these for the naked eye invisibly moving cloaks formed up. Ships of all kinds quietly moved upon them like those ancient sails from the history chips. The crescent of the moon was hardly visible. But aside to the beautiful appearances throughout the vicinity, the view also scared Kenta slightly as she stared upon the planet.

The view was so real and three-dimensional that it felt as if she really were floating above Amaji Prime by herself - if it were not for the ships that frequently eclipsed before her view along with the recurrent hyperjumps. Another disturbing factor was the emissions of all kinds hampering the more sensitive arrays, predominantly due to the fact that they were entering the lively areas of Providence Anchorage. Providence also possessed interesting things, noticeable upon its exterior hull; craters resembling sustained damages and battle scars reminding of the preceding Hiigaran-Vaygr war when the vessel partook in the last desperate stages of the Siege.

These damages were never repaired, as if they slowly became silent remembrances of war. The Galactic Core Expanse was just one of many distant surreal nebulas filling portions of the surrounding galaxy.

“Hey?”
“Huh? Oh sorry, Q. Got carried away.”
“By eye candy?”


Kenta looked over to her brother for a short moment before returning her view back upon the portable screen above her,
“Yes, sort of”, she confessed.


“Heh, suppose you are. But you really look… weird.”
“Well…”, Kenta hesitated to talk.
Quan was right about his assumption. His sister was indeed showing sign of discomfort.


“I didn't want to bug her. However, both of my legs fell asleep…”, she replied as she stroked the girl's silky hair before pointing down to the fact that the girl was sitting upon the joint of her legs, merely suppressing the blood flow to her legs, “It's okay though. I'll live.”
“You two seem to enjoy the view.”

Kenta smiled back at him once more.

What both operatives did not know was the real fact that Aira did not need to be viewing these images through an observatory station; all available types of prospecting tools, observatory arrays, telescopic units and many other systems projected their acquired data and images directly into her mind - and that was only the `physical' part, her mental and emotional capabilities sensed the masses of countless bodies throughout space with ease.


“Hey, how about you, Aira - You okay?”, Quan dared to ask.
“I am… undamaged”, she immediately whispered back to him, “not hurt…”

Her way of response was much of a surprise for them.

“G-Good to know”, Quan replied and turned his view over to his screen full of static interferences due to the ultra sensitive settings of his observatory system, “Man, I've got to turn down the sensitivity. That traffic out there is loaded.”

“I wonder what else is going on out there…”

Suddenly, Aira began to speak, lip-synching whatever waves randomly flew into her mind, “Cormorant `Jester-Two', relocate to following vectors, over... `Jester-Two', confirmed Space Control, relocation point received… in transit… Command, supplemental wing of three Aegis Frigates ready for short-jump to designated distress beacon. Over -viduals not knowing what was the cause for the sudden loss of cabin pressure. According to the affiliating media networks of FOURTH-STAR, the local forces are currently investigating the freighter that lost nearly two-thirds of its crew.
However, officials have claimed that the hull rupture was either caused by kushan failure in pressurization procedures or by material fatigue perhaps caused by the influences through the radioactive cargo. Furthermore, the officials have excluded hostile causes of sabotage - So you like space and always wanted to know how it is? How it is like to be floating at 17000 of kilometers per hour - fixing valuable and highly equipment for various media companies? Want to be just like Low G Man? Morerawnics Consortium is offering outstanding pay, insurances and innovative contracts for different fields of astronautic maintenance. Astronaut license achievement is the simplest thing to get. Interested or not - let us convince you. Contact infolinks ppp-dot-morerawnics-minus-orbitage-dot-kom.”
Both siblings looked at each other as Aira continuously spoke further… She was really picking up all sorts of media waves, transmissions and anything else transmitted by wave.


Meanwhile, Orelis was upon the beginning of the Executive Deck outside of the bridge, just steps beyond its exit. It was ironic that it was he who asked the ex-Captain to maintain bridge command during his absence, but considering Orelis' intentions regarding Hailynn's demise, the Captain immediately accepted his request.

Predominantly, it was Hailynn's morbid future that became his greatest concern over the last hours. Though constantly trying to contact a specific person somewhere upon Providence through his personal cell phone, the connection frequently aborted due to instability. Apparently, his position was still too far away to receive support from the net - Nonetheless, in order to support Hailynn, Orelis was desperately going to have to contact this specific person.


- Visarjan Drill -


= Inner docking port, naval segment - Providence =

At last. The Vjel-Amaj entered the interior segment of the space port. After a week of terror, the battered cruiser finally returned home. All eyes followed the ship's slow approach along the port that was filled with docked ships, scaffolds, construction sites and cranes, waving astronauts and many other floating drones and units. Various view points and shelled areas for public viewing allowed a great observational overview up this huge and lively segment.

The surroundings was nothing alike the derelict taiidan mothership. Unlike the inner world of the Bentusi Harborship, the surroundings was through and through full of mechanical devices, metallic structures and technical surfaces with common schemes of Hiigaran and forgotten Progenitor engineering; Nothing resembled any looks of moving biomechanical gadgets or assets but pure manpower of hardworking people.


Kelsea is seen as she stressfully concentrates and manages to navigate the ship to the desired port; her eyes and hands bewildered by frequently given commands, suggestions and instructions - her mouth complying with every given order by Captain Quenton. Ever since the support corvettes released themselves, the last part of docking was left upon her hands… and feet. Her mind played a trick on her ever since their ship approached the leviathan's inner segment. With the beautiful but majestic planet being below, it almost felt as if it was Providence that was approaching her.


Yellow signal lights of the secondary port units continuously flashed as the ship drifted with an extremely slow pace; a single moment later, all lights shifted to green phases… The last stage of docking was almost completed.


“Seventy meters and decreasing. Rate of approach - Stable”, Sunoga confirmed to the troubled substitute helmswoman, “All guide-lines aligned. Keep it like that - You're doing it great, Kelsea. Almost there… Magnetic anchoring units should catch us any moment.”


Other voices confirm the approach and phase of the docking procedure through both individual ear plugs of Kelsea.
At the same moment the entire crew experienced separate vibrations, the ship halted as it was captured by several magnetic field emitters. Within short time, hook-points, mechanical pressure-sealed personnel and logistics footbridges and docking clams secured the cruiser from further movement.


Several seconds went by before Kelsea's sweaty palms slips from the controls. Resetting both communication units on each shoulder, she clears her voice and nervously speaks, “Senior communication operative… and s-substitute helmswoman… to all decks. Docking complete… out…”

“Helmswoman, Engineering”, the ex-Captain called out, “'Status: Blue'. Disengage all propulsion, main powering systems and operational profile. Bring her to sleep.”
“Roger”, Zann lastly confirmed along with the nervous substitute helmswoman.


A row of conducted shutdown sequences echoed throughout the ship. Inducing power soon stopped to flow throughout the grid. Within short moments, the Vjel-Amaj calmed down, entering a state of quietness. Throughout the whole ship, all status lights shifted from green to a constant blue, signaling that the ship finally docked. Cheers then sounded throughout every deck.


Hearing claps from behind, Kelsea nervously turns her view beyond the edge of the huge seat, finding several groups of operatives and the executive officers applauding to her for successfully bringing the ship back home. Giving a short wave, the blushing operative immediately hid herself back into the seat.


The claps slowed and seized as Captain Quenton Soban raised himself from his seat right after adjusting his unit for a public announcement, “”This is temporary commanding officer Captain Quenton Soban speaking to all decks: My fellow Amaji, we have successfully returned to Providence and am proud to announce that we are finally home. As ordered by Amaji High Command, we all are to arrange ourselves to a Visarjan-Drill. I wish to see all of you attaining your positions… My crew, we have ventured through space for a long time and it has been more than an honor.””


Crewmen throughout the ship silenced as they listened to the voice emitting from the speakers.


“”We all have suffered hardship… terrors…””

At the same time but from different locations, both Hailynn and Fenna look upwards; the Amaji woman being handcuffed in her darkened quarters and Hailynn somewhere hidden amidst a small storage room, both with faces full of tears.

“”We have survived an atrocity… Our future is unknown of where this atrocity will end. Nevertheless, my crew, as of this day, let us be proud of our return… and adventures… Let us also never forget about our losses… and prides. We must never forget about those who lost their lives. We must thank them… and the Bentusi Enclave… both of them for sacrificing their lives and help for this day and moment of our return. You all have done me proud. Some of you… may have returned with… sorrows, lost hopes…””

Aira quietly recalled fretful moments as the man spoke.
““and unwanted failures…””

For some reason, Hailynn felt that he was referring to her. She listened further as she wiped her face, ““- but I must beseech all of you who may be affected: Faith - Have faith. We have found a lost nation following its legacy for the sake of its future and we have found a lost group individuals willing to embrace peace as one of ours”, the taiidan-turanic prisoners lifted their heads as the announcement was also transmitted to their sector, “”- Despite their preceding deeds, I beseech you to welcome them to the Kiith Amaj. Let us rejoice as a sole nation returning home. To all decks, I thank you for your loyalty and service. Pride to all of you… and welcome home. This is Captain Quenton Soban, over and out.””


The hiss of static ended shortly after the spoken words. His short speech struck everybody with a thoughtful moment about the past, present and the future.


“Operatives and officers of the bridge”, the ex-Captain lastly pronounced to the whole bridge, “I wish to see you all rowed up outside with our fellow crewmen where we will meet the officials of High Command.”

Concurring with his command, a flow of operatives soon made their way; each and every one of them saluting to the Captain before exiting the bridge. Sunoga swung her finger shortly at Koji, reminding him of the invitation before they disappeared through the exits. Kenta also guided Aira towards the exit.
Being the last operative at the bridge, Kelsea finally detached herself and departed from the helm, soon to cross views with the Captain - not expecting that he was still waiting. Signaling her to wait a moment, the Sobani approached her for some reason. Once reaching her side, he suddenly lowered himself; as if he found something valuable on the floor. Before Kelsea dared to ask, the Captain quietly ordered her, “Attention.”


Straightening her back, she attained a firm pose and looked ahead. Voices from each shoulder unit still emitted. Quenton's hands approached the collar of her uniform, fiddled shortly with it and then returned to his sides. Once finished, he arranged himself again in a proud militaristic pose, “Operative Kelsea, you have proven great skill at the helm. As for your outstanding service in both fields of communication and navigation, I hereby promote you to the rank of Ensign, Junior Grade, and bestow you with the `Amaji Helmsman Wings'. Kelsea, do you accept these promotions?”


Unfortunately breaking her firm pose, Kelsea's right hand shortly felt upon the two emblems that formally belonged to Fenna; immediately recognizing both wings and rank symbols. Her hand remained frozen upon them - Her hesitation was a silent acceptance, soon followed by a faint nod.
“I congratulate you, Ensign Kelsea of Amaj.”



= Pressurized logistics zone of Port Gamma, Providence =

The logistics zone of Port Gamma, sometimes referred as Dry-Docks, was another huge area filled with ongoing transports, engineers, crewmen, workers and many others conducting usual dock works. Vehicles passed by alongside the secured paths further away. This segment of the area like many throughout the classified ports was specifically used for military assets. As rows crew of the Vjel-Amaj finally departed from their ship, everybody felt the euphoria of homecoming; many of them thankful of seeing kushan beings rather than alien ones. Knowing that the Visarjan-Drill about to occur, all crewmen packed their bags and belongings aside and rowed themselves.

Whilst nearing the edge of the long footbridge, Corporal Aaron Salico guided the captivated Fenna Amaj who carried her belongings in a transport bag to Orelis and Hailynn. Fenna's angered eyes remained fixed upon the Hiigaran woman.

“You sure about this, Hailey?”, Orelis questioned her once more, somewhat referring to a previous conversation.

“Orelis, we already have the media swarming us, I'm sure of that. Last thing High Command needs is some sort of speculated scandal. Therefore… Corporal”, Hailynn's spoke, “I wish you to release Fenna.”

Aaron raised an eyebrow, “Ma'am? Err… I apologize, ma'am. Command understood, but are you aware that -?”, he replied as he immediately fumbled with Fenna's handcuffs.
“No time for any long explanations. We will have enough to talk about with High Command. Now Fenna, listen to me. Look at me.”


Fenna said nothing but once again fixed her view upon the wrecked Hiigaran as her wrists were released from the small shackles; rubbing them with great hatred.

“I don't care what you think right now”, Hailynn muttered, “Just take your things and leave with the last bit of honor you have. I thank you for your service. Just request your paycheck and… leave… Now - And I wish you not to partake on the Drill - I doubt you had the interest anyhow.”

Far and high above them several were sealed lookout-points for the public viewers; all of them staring down at the dock workers and the crew that finally returned. Aside to the common viewers, relatives of the crew waved and cheered, hoping their loved ones could see them. Throughout loud crowds, a small group of junior grade operatives and cadets are seen viewing down upon the crew that slowly rowed themselves. Injured crewmen were immediately transported away; most likely to the medical facilities. The rows became numerous as more and more crewmen of various fields exited the mechanical footbridge - There were certain appearances that made the rows incomplete, however.

“Hmm - What are they doing?”, Zak asked.
“What?”, Vinnie replied.
“The crewmen. Look. What are they doing? Vinnie, you're the one who knows the way around with that stuff.”
“Yeah… It's a Visarjan-Drill all right.”
One of the female operatives of the group leaned forward slightly, “Visarge-what?”

“It's Visarjan-Drill. Something simple: It's just a traditional gesture of departing or welcoming a naval crew - Military style tradition, that is. For us `people', it's nothing more than just rowing ourselves up and leaving the talking for those highly ranked military guys.”
“Is that so? But… hmm… Check it out, the rows down there are not… consistent. I don't think the arrangements are supposed to look like that, Vinnie.”

Vinnie paused for a long while. The female operative bummed her elbow upon the somtaaw's side, wondering why he was so hesitant.
“Yeah, sorry - The rows are not supposed to look like this. They seem to have several injured people - People who could not attend due to whatever - but those holes would be closed normally to keep the row consistent… but…”

“Stop making it so suspenseful!”
“All right, All right. Look. Check out the rows that are consistent and look full - Those are groups that are just fine. Now… there are other ones that are a bit shorter - Those show that certain people must have been injured… but the empty rows, now that's something… not good.”
Others bunched up closer to him.
“Hey, hey -”
“Come on - Tell us!”
“Casualties… Real casualties: Deaths.”
Silence filled the lookout point; even other bystanders and onlookers dared not to say a word.
“Just looking at the ship tells me that something must have gone awfully wrong. I tell you this: Whatever they flew through, it was surely pure war.”

= Far below, rows of the Visarjan-Drill =

Noticed by the rows of operatives and officers, all eyes stared upon Fenna who quietly rushed past the rows with angered swift steps and with her transport belongings, ignoring farewells or thankfulness for her efforts. Moving along, Fenna did not even salute to any of the High Command officials further away.
Don't worry, Ray… I will be back! WE WILL BE TOGETHER FOR GOOD!

After several long moments later, the slow Hiigaran officer appeared, supported by Lieutenant Commander Orelis and the crutch he brought along. Both moved step by step as they departed from the long footbridge. Her appearance was breathtaking for many as they saw the woman still suffering from injuries; still wearing the messed up uniform.
Looking ahead, Orelis spotted the officials of Amaji High Command approaching from further away - thankfully that they were not here yet. He however also discovered Pethera and her group of henchmen aside of the Amaji crew… apparently showing off that they also belonged to it. He also spotted the bandaged Kaydaana Manaan further behind, rowed along the group of the few remaining strikecraft pilots; surprisingly, this was the first time she saw her so… quiet.

Finally reaching the first row next to the Captain and many other superiors of the executive crew, Hailynn attained the vacant spot next to him.


“H-how do I look?”, Hailynn quietly muttered to Orelis.
He threw a startled face; aside to those who had minor injuries, Hailynn was the only one throughout the entire mass of crewmen who had a wrecked appearance. Her face was slightly red… but for a change, he remained confident and arranged her messed up uniform slightly, “Just this last bit, Hailynn, we'll make it.”
“I guess… we're being watched, huh?”, she commented quietly again.

Orelis shortly turned around and took several looks throughout their surroundings; his eyes met with the domed ceiling several hundreds of meters above, “Man… The crowd ain't the only thing going bananas… The media is everywhere.”, he commented as he spotted several technical engineers staring down upon their ranks and rows.
Aira settled herself silently next to her caretaker.

= Deck 7, Corridor of the Vjel-Amaj =

The lone black-haired Amaji woman in a dark green uniform walked along the corridor, frequently pausing, performing dance movements and attempting to repeat the taiidan lyrics spoken as she listened to the loud metal music emitting from her headsets, “<…I know… why you… blame me…!>”


Stopping in front of wall map revealing the ship's interior structure, the woman hummed the blazing melody further as she thought about where to go. Her finger slipped upon the touch screen; first heading to the brig sector, then to a specific region with crew quarters. As her finger bounced back and forth, she seemed as if she had a decision to make on whom to visit first; her arrested twin sister, the taiidan-turanic prisoners or Ray - unfortunately not knowing that Fenna was already released and already left the ship.

But as she looked back and forth down the long and empty corridor, she slowly noticed something…
“Err… Where is everybody???”

Elsewhere upon the rows, logistics operative Rico suddenly leaned forward slightly and looked around as if he was looking for somebody. He had been doing this many times before.

“Psst, Rico”, one man next to him whispered, “Knock it off, the officials are almost here! Stay put!”
“All right… All right”, the younger man replied and straightened himself.

“Who the frell are you looking for?!”

“Haven't you noticed? I don't see any sign of her”, Rico whispered to him.

“Who?”

“Chief Deena.”
Making quick looks upon his surroundings, the man could not detect the bubbly executive anywhere, “Damn… You're right. Gods, where is she? D-don't tell me she's still on the ship!”
“Guess so.”

“Well, let's keep our cool. With these many holes in the rows, her absence shouldn't be that much of a big deal.”
“Right.”
“All right, quiet now. Those guys are here. Hope they hurry up with this…”

Every single person of the rows straightened their poses as the group of High Command officials approached them. Commodore Yor was accompanied by several other highly decorated officers of other kiithid of the Amaji Navy; nearly all of them being veterans of the Hiigaran-Vaygr war, serving formally as Vice-Admirals of the Hiigaran Navy before. Every individual appearance had a long story attached to their medals and symbols of distinguished service. Indeed, their appearance was a majestic one.


The following moments were full of militaristic greetings and traditional welcoming speeches. After the accepting the return of the Vjel-Amaj, Commodore Yor also held a long speech referring to the report and logs of Captain Quenton Soban recalling all that occurred, also notifying the crew of his regrets regarding the losses and thanking several for their heroic efforts along with Captain Quenton Soban explaining some of the bloodcurdling events. Many of the crew became anxious, knowing that the High Commander was slowly coming to an end:
“… You all have reflected what the Kiith Amaj stands for. However, I speak to all of you; It is important to attain confidentiality about this operation. Following kiithidial laws and contracts, you are all obliged to maintain confidentiality considering your experiences. Yet, crewmen of the Vjel-Amaj, High Command is pleased of your return. We must also honor those who have lost their lives. It will also be the privilege of High Command to share these tragic casualties with the relatives. Henceforth, High Command still demands one last task from the superior officers of the Vjel-Amaj.”
For some reason, Hailynn sensed a disturbing note in his voice.
“Superior officers, we require all of you to attain a hearing considering your experiences throughout the M'randara Star System and the operation. I apologize, but I am afraid that only the subordinate crew and the enlisted operatives may be dismissed. Members of the Kiith Supremacy will partake in this hearing as well. Apparently, your experiences has evoked greater interests by those… above… the Military Authority. Also, I have been told that a Kiith Tribunal has been arranged.”
Hailynn quietly lowered her shoulders, knowing it was foolish of her to think that she was going to get away with it. Orelis also subtly bit his teeth together - He was going to need some serious help on this. Remembering his remark about `bananas', he knew he had to contact a specific person... desperately, for the sake of Hailynn.


“Hence, you are to report at High Command to attain this last hearing in exactly one hour. As for the rest of you, crew of the Vjel-Amaj… We welcome you home aboard Providence and thank you for your services onboard the Vjel-Amaj. You will all be rewarded and honored for your deeds...”

The Commodore and the group behind him honorably saluted to the group, ending the Visarjan-Drill with the last traditional words.

“Captain Quenton of the Kiith Soban”, Commodore Yor lastly mentioned before departing from them.


The Captain shortly repeated his words of honoring the crew before dismissing them from duty. All rows saluted honorably, and then cheered for their return home. It only took a single moment until the rows scrambled in relief. Many of them had no worries of the future but specific individuals. The only row that remained still was the row of the executive officers, specifically Hailynn, Orelis, Aira and separate others who knew what was coming in an hour.

As the rows dispersed, Rico suddenly spotted a familiar woman departing from the footbridge. Several logistics operatives next to him approached her with surprised eyes as she naively yelled, “Hey guys - Oww, we're already home?! Oh well - Has anybody seen my sister `round here?! And why are all of you out here?!”.

“M-Ma'am”, Rico stuttered, “W-We just had a long Visarjan-Drill with those High Command guys…”
“Oh? Ha - guess I missed something. I knew I heard something after all but this music was just too loud, eh?”
“…”

“Anyways, where's Fenna? Was going to visit her before visiting the taiiranics and Ray at the briggy.”

“Boss”, one of the ranked logistics operatives called, “Looks like she was released - and boy was she in a hurry. To be honest, she looked pissed-as-frell… I tell you. No goodbye or response to those thanking her for her work. I don't know, but I heard about some heavy things she did that got her arrested.”

“Oh. Yeah, she did a lot of crap - even tossed a gunpoint at Hailynn, Aira and that Pethera - huh? But okay. I'll talk to her sometime. Well… Guess y'all off the ship. Might as well can head home! Too bad, hehe”, Deena giggled, as if she actually had things planned for later but instead insisted to drop those ideas and wave, “Well, I'm going to head back onboard, guys. Maybe we see each other in the future for another crazy tour, mh?”

“Err… how come you know what Fenna did so precisely?”
“Eh? Dunno, guess that god writing our fate screwed up again.”
“Chief?”, a female operative replied from behind, “Aren't you leaving the ship?”

“Me? Nay, I've got lotsa things to do. Gotta meet Ray, gotta meet Delofff…Del… Delly and her people at the brig. Guess I'll maintain those skeleton crewguys while I'm at it.”


However, at the same moment Deena was about to turn away, she spotted a specific female operative with a faint purple in her hair heading for Hailynn, “<Ooww, I gotta see this!>”

Elsewhere beyond the groups, Kelsea and a few other operatives including Velle appeared, asking the Captain for permission to partake in the hearing, which he granted. Orelis looked at the Captain, the superior officer who quietly reminded him of faith.

Even Kaydaana approached them, surprisingly quiet. Surely, Hailynn was going to need all the support she could get. Orelis suddenly stepped before Hailynn, “Well, guess VJ will be transferred to Assembly Port for a very long repair phase with the skeleton crew - but Hailey, listen, this is not over.”
“I know, the worst is yet to come.”

“No, I mean, you won't stand this alone. They'll have to get through us first.”
“Are you kidding? We're talking here about the Kiith Supremacy, Orelis. They'll slaughter you and anybody who'll stand in their way to get me. You know that.”

Pulling out his cell phone, Orelis held it up in front of her, “I know, but if you're going down, they'll have to get through us!”

“Who are you talking about? All due respect to all of you willing… to stand for me, but I can't -”
“For a change, Hailynn, let us try to save your life.”
“But… who are you going to call?”
“Probably the only person who can help us out against these crazy kiithidial things, Hailynn. Trust me. Look, let us all get out of here and get to High Command. I'm sure she'll be there by then.”

As the group moved ahead, Deena suddenly appeared, managing to pull Hailynn subtly out of the group - only Aira stood still as she noticed her caretaker's halt. Turning around, the girl's hand dangled smoothly with her symbolic pendant as she listened.

“Hey there, boss!”
“Deena? Um… Make it quick, I have to get going.”

“Did my sister do much trouble for yah?”
“Enough troubles. She left. Look, things are waiting for me to be done, Chief Deena.”

“Just a small thing, boss, something you should probably know about. Not that I want to interfere, but you should know that Velle has some… interests in you.”
Hailynn shook her head, “Don't worry, Deena, I already know about it.”

“Is… Is that so? S-So you two are -?”, it was clear that Deena's eyes were merely glowing for the gossip to soon share - despite the crew disbanding from duty… but at least she had the skeleton crew left, “I never thought you would have such interests.”

“No, she is - I am not. Look Chief, I don't have the time, but let me make this straight: Velle and I are friends. I am not what her notion is alike, but for all that she has done for me, I insist to stay next to her as a close friend. Nothing more. Don't spread any false stories to any Amaji crewmen about it, that's a lifetime order to you, Deena.”
“<Oooow, lifetime?! I hate you!> All right, boss”, the bubbly logistics officer replied with a thumb-up gesture - surprisingly happy, “If I may say, it was an honor to serve you and… despite that notion of Velle, I am amazed how you accept it - positively meant! Man, if I had known you were that sexy, Boss, I'd go for you, too!”

“I need to get going, Deena. I doubt we will see each other beyond this day - but thanks for your work. Messy work, but you still managed it.”
“Thanks, Boss.”
“-positively meant… Enjoy home, okay?”, Hailynn lastly remarked, waving her with the opposite side of her hand as she turned away.


Deena happily wove back to her, “Don't worry, Commander! Chief Deena always gets the jobs dun <somehow>! I'm sure you'll make it!”
“What makes you so sure?”

“One of them gods announced a sequel, boss!
“Stop talking nonsense. Bye - And you heard my lifetime order.”

“Aye, ma'am, nothing to the other crewmen, ma'am!”, Deena finally saluted as Hailynn disappeared through the crowd.
…
As Deena made her way back towards the footbridge to the accessible decks of the Vjel-Amaj, the operatives suddenly formed a devilish grin, “<You said Amaji crewmen… but not taiiranic! This is gonna be excellent.>” *Handclap*


- The Melancholy of Hailynn Delixa

(Narrative voice)

Foreign affair, civil, military, notarial and kiithidial law and order play a great role throughout the Kiith Amaj. While courts, tribunals and other hearings deal with the issues resolving throughout communities, the Kiith Supremacy is well known for its inexcusable convictions; a fact many fear due to the fact that Amaj still follows the old kharakian traditions. Often do individuals find themselves accused by the Supremacy for violating or insulting kiithid individuals; such are often left with nothing but their word and a kiith lawyer to their defense.

Commonly, these assigned defense lawyers serving as representatives of kiithid juristic laws are known as Kiith Advocates and thus belong to the sole hope of their clients. The Kiith Supremacy throughout Amaj, generally consisting of outer kiithidial members, holds great grudges and hatred for the individuals of the Kiith Amaj and their liberal lifestyles and agenda; mostly reasonably caused by the Kiith Amaji Independence Declaration.

Advocates who fail to protect the individuals that fall under the eye of the Supremacy individuals in court are often not spared… This is why the Kiith Advocacy of Amaj take their job in the line of defense seriously and with great honor, so says their oath.
(end of narrative speech)


= A random café, far away from the Port and deep within the Promenade Sector of Providence =

The inner districts throughout the Promenade Sector were always full of life during the orbital day cycle. The inner `city' of Providence offered much for sociality and cultures, thrived by immigrants, colonists and many other individuals. Despite the notice of Amaji space never being safe, those who were here knew that they need not much to worry about.

A slightly tanned young woman in an elegant business uniform with a moderately-sized skirt quietly sits upon table while taking a sip from her drink, surrounded by the chatter of many resident guests enjoying their stay at the café and the exotic flavors of various meals and snacks. She quietly skims pages of new juristic protocols as she suddenly noticed a familiar sound emitting from her suitcase. After putting the pages aside, she opened her case shortly to pull out the ringing cell phone. The number on the display is familiar - unexpected.

“H-hello, is that you Orel-?!”, she suddenly asked after accepting the call.
“”Banana””, his voice replied, “”Yeah, it's me, Orelis - I'm back, finally… I've been trying to get in touch with you ever since we entered Amaji Space, but the connection was horrific!””
“So… You're the one who's been calling me the last hours? Never had your number shown until now - whoa, what a minute!”, she suddenly snapped with a loud voice.

Banana, the nickname of Bajula Naleigha Nabaal, immigrant to Kiith Amaj, in her mid 30s… A more or less successful kiith advocate serving both civil and military affairs inside and outside the law firms and one of the very few closest friends to Orelis. Both share the same miseries felt during the times of the Hiigaran-War; Orelis as a young officer - Naleigha formally as one of the individuals forced to partake breeding doctrines, later eluding it by emigrating to Amaj. Finding this new home, both found each other again. Despite having both coming from the same nabaali enclave, fate and their later careers always stood between them, never letting relationship develop beyond thoughtful moments - and it struck again…

“Hey now, explain yourself, mister! <Thought I would forget?!>”, she spoke, unknowingly catching the attention of others, “We had a date set someday ago and you dropped me again -!”
“”B-Banana, please, not now - This is serious!””

“Serious?! I've waited ages for you and you dropped me yet again, Orelis! It really hurt this time… you promised me that…”, she replied, recalling everything she cooked at her apartment nearly three days ago, not to mention the preparations just to free that day of entangling work.


“”Naleigha, please.””


Surprisingly, his short please calmed her anger. It was the tone of his voice. She had heard this distress from him before.
“”Listen. I know we - I, I mean, I keep screwing up… when we try to meet, but please, Naleigha - I'll make up for it.””
“Same words I keep hearing from you, man. You sound like you're in a rush.”

“”This is urgent, Naleigha, dead urgent. I promise you that I will make up for this, somehow… I just returned from a week of pure frell from the Vjel-Amaj. I can't tell you any more about it but that a serious problem has occurred between my friend, a naval officer, and a …very… high kiithid persona.””

“Well… whoa… You first fail, now you want me to put myself in the line of fire for somebody I don't know? Orelis, look, I just returned from a long case that dealt with the Criminal Investigation Service that was closed today - friggin' ex-marine as the supervisory investigater and his stupid marine-rules. And with just one meeting between me and a long break from work, I won't -”

“”Naleigha. I wouldn't be calling you knowing that I owe you already a lot - but right now, I am begging you for this… favor. We need you, badly. It is something very important for all of us. Somebody's life is endangered, Banana, and that person saved our lives in many occasions indirectly - during this last week. Look, I'd even pay your salary for this sudden case…””

“Frell with the salary… Orelis.“

“”I-I know… we wanted to get together. We haven't talked for a very long while. I was really looking forward to the surprise… but these… things just resolved, Naleigha, serious things. Very serious things.””
“For a change, Orelis, I just hoped we could just… forget about whatever those things were… I even made a pineapple cake.”

A sweat-pearl of fear ran down Orelis' forehead with the thought `Bloody lucky…' for not taking a bite from it.
“”I will make up for it, I promise… Naleigha, I need you to meet me ASAP at Amaji High Command Center, urgently. Within this hour!””

“What?! You can't be serious. I've got to attend that meeting and… O-Orelis, that is too sudden.”

His long pause only replied his great dismay.
“Gods… You really do mean it. *long sigh* All… All right. The senior partners are going to tear my head off but hey… I might happen to save the life of a somebody I happen NOT to know of.”
“”I-O-U. For the sake of Kabaalistan, Naleigha. Meet you there at the square. And thank you - I'll make up for this””, Orelis' voice thankfully replied, “”Anything you want!””
“O-Okay… anything?”
For some reason, Orelis felt a cold shiver. The last phrase must have slipped out of his mouth.
“”…Anything… Banana.””

= Amaji High Command Center, Main Conference Hall =
Nearly three hours later. Long conversations were held throughout the hearing, predominately reconstructing all events and decisions made accordingly to the seven day report given by Captain Soban.
Practically all important personas of the Vjel-Amaj partook this hearing; each giving their input and experience regarding the given questions by High Command. Commodore Yor and the other high officials circled the other side of the hall. Looking upon the group of the Amaji High Command, Hailynn spotted empty seats of the Somtaaw representatives - typically. They probably did not even care what happened all this time through. Unlike the missing Somtaaw, smaller numbers of kiith council members from Manaan, Nabaal, Paktu, Liir-Hraal and other minor ones were present as well.


“<Pff…>”, Orelis ironically muttered to himself, “<In Kiith Somtaaw, Somtaaw cares about YOU…>”
Hailynn had not been called yet to say a word. Most of the time, others answered questions - mainly the Captain. Her mind was elsewhere however. Not only did she await Pethera's strike on her, she also wondered about the future - the aftermath of all of this. Aira had not said a single word ever since she met her again, but strangely, each time Hailynn threw glance upon the girl from the side, the girl would silently look back at her and form a subtly gentle smile. A short glimpse to the others side of the hall revealed several high kiithid members of S'Jet that silently exchanged views with Pethera.


As the hearing took further place, Kaydaana also had no real interest in listening but to think about the translated message given by Kelsea when the Visarjan-Drill ended; The mysterious message transmitted by the toughest turanic fighter pilot she ever confronted in combat just two or three days ago - The same day where she lost several of her closest squadmates. Her eyes wandered further, spotting all the patriotic symbols and flags everywhere throughout the huge conference hall. The conference hall itself was not far from the Naval Command Information Center; the primary base and nerve of the entire Kiith Amaji Fleet. Kaydaana lowered her view again, not letting it wander further.

<You are a relentless opponent.>, the message echoed in her mind, We will meet again..

There were many other words mentioned - at least translated the best Kelsea could -, but exactly those two phrases repeated themselves. But as she heard the name of “Ray”, the turanic-taiidan prisoners and Vaygr-Hiigaran refuges being mentioned several times in the hearing, it seemed as if a discrepant argument was evolving between the executives of the Vjel-Amaj and the officials of High Command.

Apparently, there seemed to be a serious political issue considering the rescued Vaygr. High Command seemed to subtly demand the executives to hand out the Vaygr, the refugees and the prisoners. Noticing that unknown nabaali advocate woman leaning past Orelis' side, she called Hailynn for attention.

“<What is it?>”, Hailynn whispered back to Naleigha.
“<Sorry to interfere, Delixa, but there is something you need to know.>”

“E-excuse me, Commodore. <What?>”

The Commodore repeated his demands, “The rescued Hiigarans are free to board Providence, Commanders and Captain of the Vjel-Amaj. However, the others are still hostilities despite their former deeds or surrenders. They are to be treated likewise - Therefore, we demand you to release them and transfer them to the authority of High Command.”
Both Hailynn and Orelis listened carefully to the advocate as she explained while the Captain insisted to buy time, “<All right, listen. There is a reason why High Command is requesting you to release them rather than just sending troops and getting them on their own. Look, I've experienced a similar event that happened between a foreign ship and a station at 5TH-Star - Things went awfully wrong, I tell you - especially on behalf of Somtaaw individuals involved - but let me cut myself short - that event brought up new laws. If I percept things well, this situation with that Vaygr… hero of yours, the other prisoners and refugees aboard Vjel-Amaj isn't any different. According to those new laws, the Vjel-Amaj is somewhat a sovereignty of its own! Despite the ship serving the Amaji Navy or whomever, it is achieves sovereignty as it also possesses a leader with kiithidial powers; that would be you, Krin'sa Delixa, and Captain Soban, whose kiithidial status is unknown to me. Whatever, if you don't want High Command to take over the fate of the people, you ought to keep them on the ship!>”


Naleigha was outright serious with her words, noticeable by her glare. Indeed, she was an advocate who took her job very seriously; no matter the side she partook.

“Th-Thank you, Naleigha”, Hailynn replied but then threw a sharp look at Orelis, “Orelis - With immediate cause: Contact the skeleton crew remaining the Vjel-Amaj! Under no circumstances are the refugees or Ray to leave the ship - neither the Vaygr, nor the Hiigarans! Prisoners are self-explanatory!”
“What is this about, Commander Delixa. Speak at once!”, one of the officials of High Command demanded from afar with a harsh tone.


As Orelis conducted Hailynn's order through his shoulder unit, she insisted to explain, “I am sorry, High Command, but I cannot let you do this. These people have done much for the sake of the Vjel-Amaj and the pride. The Hiigarans have formed families with the Vaygr and I will not allow them to be interrogated as enemies due to obsolete declarations. It is my interest as… a Krin'sa.”


Orelis subtly pat Naleigha's hand as a small gesture of a formal thanks. A long pause went through the room as the Commodore raised his hand, gaining attention of both sides, “Very well, Commander Delixa. But beware, you cannot hold them under captivity forever. Alas… High Command has yet to negotiate with the council considering the fact that you have stumbled upon valuable minerals throughout the M'randara Star System… this so-called `Rahji' you suddenly named - however, I fear the future of the Kadeshi Kiith does not lie in our hands. Due to such conflict, the Amaji Navy will not engage as the situation and rescue operation resolved beyond our is beyond our sovereignty.
The fleet's priority of upholding Amaji security within our constellation still remains as the supreme objective. Henceforth, the request for diverting any further units to the M'randara Star System is denied. Neither will the Amaji Navy divert units, nor any other kiithid of the Amaji Kiith Council.”

Hailynn suddenly stood up, ignoring the pain that emitted along with the sudden movement, “I beg your pardon, Commodore! The Seekers, they require support from our fleet! There may be further Hiigarans missing in action throughout the M'randara Star System! I am sure that the Hiigaran Navy even would -”

“The decision has been made, Commander - Denied. However, it is likely that higher kiithid may conduct operations on behalf of their initiative with outer corporations. While it is unlikely that the Amaji Navy will have to partake on their procedures directly from the start - or primarily -, it is likely that the Amaji Council will negotiate once more with this subject.”

Subject Prosperity - The Amaji Navy and its subordinating departments have already classified all of the valuable riches found in the M'randara Nebula as subjects under the simple classification: Subject Prosperity. With the discovery of these extremely valuable masses, it seemed as if Hailynn suddenly became aware of a frightening fact that was surely to become true… some day. The Kiithid Mine Rush…

She turned her view away from the High Command officials.

“<Hailey - You alright?>”, Orelis asked from below.

That damn Paktu… He was right… The Mine Rush was going to be inevitable… Or was it just phantasm - fears?


“<With all due respect, Hailynn, but I'm really not looking forward to meeting those turanic freaks in that system again… They really had some ugly dirty space alchemy going on…>”
“<D-dirty what`?>”, Naleigha dared to ask.
“<Destructive nuclear weaponry of all sorts - and practically everything else crude just to solve the purpose with pure death.>”


“Nevertheless, Krin'sa and Commander Delixa. High Command must end this hearing. Much has yet to be resolved from your reports. But I assure you that the Vjel-Amaj and its crew will not partake on any further operations for a long time considering the damages sustained throughout the last week of service. We have yet to honor those who have lost their lives - A ceremony has been announced and once our departments have verified the casualty reports. Executives of the Vjel-Amaj, as of being the Chief-in-Command,
I wish you to be dismissed from active duty and recreate yourselves in a well deserve shore leave - We deeply wish you to recreate yourselves, specifically you, Commander Delixa. With the civilian supporters ending their shifts, High Command wishes to have the new shift to be indoctrinated during the maintenance phase of the Vjel-Amaj that will surely require much time. We also hope to see experienced individuals of the previous crew partake in the training procedures.
Executives… We must be wary. The conflict beyond our sovereignty will not be underestimated as this… Vaygr Warlord… may become a greater threat. However, are there any other matters to be resolved now?”


Hailynn suddenly threw another serious glare, this time towards the S'jeti woman who sat further away. Cold sweat ran down the side of her forehead. Pethera quietly returned the stare with a faint smile; she sensed Hailynn's inner fears - Her body could not hide what her implants detected.

Orelis also threw several views between the two women. Whatever was going on, things were not happening as… expected. Though Orelis was always the type of person to expect the worst, fate seemed to be taking a totally different path. Now it was Hailynn who was daring the devil with her staggering gaze. Pethera did not say a word. She knew she had Hailynn's life in her hand and yet… She only turned her eyes towards the other Kiith S'jeti members across the hall.

The wrecked Hiigaran woman was anxiously awaiting Pethera to do her move, letting the Kiith Tribunal dishonorably discharge Hailynn from all privileges - excluding her kiithidial status - and have her executed… but nothing was going to happen as long as Pethera would not announce her allegation.


Wait… her implants!, Hailynn thought as her eyes once again met with the set of circuit lines upon her forehead. Apparently, Pethera was already partaking on some in-depth conversation of her own with the other S'jeti individuals - most likely through the neural interfaces linked somewhere in that brain of hers. Before any words were said, the Kiith S'jeti individuals and Pethera suddenly lifted themselves and began to retreat from the hearing.

What was this all about - A hideous trick?

“Captain, Commanders and executives of the Vjel-Amaj”, Commodore Yor lastly called out, “I declare this hearing for ended. I wish all of you to recover from your mission well and wish to see all of you honor those who have lost their lives. Pride.”

Everybody, even the silent copycatting Aira, stood up and saluted to the Commodore and his following staff. As things started to loosen up, Orelis immediately dropped his shoulders in relief. It was finally over - This time definitely.
“<I hope whichever god is writing our fate would stop just now…>”, he muttered.
“I thought we nabaali never believe in deities, Orelis”, Naleigha replied as she packed thing from the table back into her handy suitcase.
“…”


“Well… I guess that pretty much was enough to call this a day. Aside to the fact that the senior partners are going to mess me up afterwards… I guess I did my good deed.”
Orelis shortly grabbed both sides of her arms, “You were great, Banana, I will still hold that promise.”
“G-Great, yet, I still wonder why you actually needed me, Orelis. I mean…”

“Well, you're the best advocate I know.”
“Th-Thanks”, she blushed slightly but shook her head, “No, I mean in connection with Hailynn and that… other kiithid woman over there, that scientist woman, Doctor Pethera. She did not really say or accuse the Commander of… of anything. Actually, I'm not sure why you needed me?”


Hailynn became desperate; she knew Pethera had to be up to something. Without warning, Hailynn suddenly moved away from the group and limped her to the departing S'jeti with hasted steps. Pethera was up to something - Something that would boomerang sooner or later… most likely when she would least expect it… but just as Hailynn was about to reach her, her last steps were intercepted by Captain Quenton Soban who gently caught her arm.

“C-Captain?”
“Delixa. Let her go.”

Pethera paused and only looked back at the time; a last glare, before finally disappearing through the exit. The others approached the two as he spoke, “Delixa, I wish to speak with you and Aira outside this base of operations.”


“I must apologize, Captain, but I insist to learn what this is all about!”, Hailynn desperately replied, “I know Pethera will come back later - if she won't strike now. I'm not going to live in fear all this time through! She can't possibly be intending to spare me! That fool Asad already got away with his guilt… I failed in getting him to justice… and -”
“Commander… no… Hailynn”, he replied, “Please. Let us have a walk and speak outside the High Command establishment. As for the rest of you: You are all dismissed as Commodore Yor approved.”

It did not take all long until all of them exited the huge conference hall into the open corridor. As the group made their way out, individuals bid farewell.

“So… That's it?”, Naleigha asked once more to the others, “I can assume the expected case will not occur, Captain Soban?”
“Correctly, Advocate Naleigha”, Quenton replied politely, “I admire your efforts and knowledge. You have elegantly joined our side and defended our standpoint with great skill. We all thank you for this. I assure you to grant your efforts appropriately.”

“Thank you, Captain.”
“V-Very well, Captain, I will.. follow you outside with Aira.”

It did not take long until the whole group departed from the secured internal perimeter to the main lobby and outer segment of the base. Marines, operatives and many other military personnel were everywhere throughout the lobby. During the long walk, a few slowed down as they nearly exited the area and as this happened, the Captain, Hailynn, Aira and Velle were already outside while the group dispersed further.

Feeling a tough grip grabbing his hand, Orelis was suddenly pulled away from the group, “W-What the - Whoa, Hey!”, he stuttered, “K-Kaydaana, what are you doing?!”.

Surprisingly, the bandaged Manaani hothead was trying to straggle the officer's arm in following her, “Yer comin' with me, pal! I need a drinkin' partner at the den!”, she growled, referring to what pilots call bars, “And yah will come with meh!”

“The BAR?! What the frell? <Stop pulling!> I'm not heading there, woman! We just got back from a week of terror and I REALLY am not in the mood - If there is one thing I'm not going to do, it's to get involved in troubles with a goddamn drunk Manaani!”
“Oh, yer comin' with me! An' if ah must straggle yah with meh!”
“Knock-it-off, Kaydaana!”

“So… You hung all this time around with that woman while you were gone, huh, Orelis?”, Naleigha asked naively.
“Hey, this is not what you're thinking, Banana! I never hung around with her. This woman's crazy! I just want to rest and finally -”
“Who yah callin' crazy, fool! Obey mah voice!”


“Hey, excuuuuuuuuuuse me, Manaani`unshi… - princess or whatever that means but -!”
“An' who's this lil Nabaali-lawyer girl you calling a banana?! Your girlfriend?!”
“I'm not his girlfriend!... w-well… I -”, unfortunately, Naleigha was interrupted, unable to justify her confusing affiliation with Orelis.


“Damn it… for the last time”, Orelis sighed, luckily getting a break from the dragging attempts, “Her name is Bajula Naleigha Nabaal! Got that?!”
“Bajula Naleigha Nabaal, you say, eh?”, the Manaani copycatted slowly and mustered the woman from top to bottom with her sharp green eyes, “Hmpf, she ain't got enough below those clothes. And she's an advocate- and yah call her `banana'? Bah, I think I'll call her `avocado' instead. Awright, Avocado, I'm takin' Orelis with me to the den, I've got some stuff to drown! So - Why don't yah just… go back to yer office and read some law books, will yah? Fenna already stole mah man, not gonna let it happen again!”

Naleigha bit her teeth together… merely about to explode in anger, “WHA- WHY… YOU… Get lost you… whoever you are… and -!”
“I'm Lieutenant Colonel Kaydaana of the Manaan, Pride of -”


“Shut up! Just give me one friggin' reason why Orelis should go with a packed up mummy like you, Manaani!”, the Nabaali barked at Kaydaana, obviously through jealousy.

“Kaydaana, I've had it with your fooling around!”, the man hurled at the Manaani, “I can't believe I'm actually talking this through. I don't think I should be burning my time with you. For no damn reason! Last thing I really won't do is hang around with you at some bar getting drunk with other mourners, woman - and I surely could be doing something better than that! Com'on, Naleigha, let's go.”


Releasing himself once more, Orelis made a single step but stopped as he heard the Manaani calmly speaking from behind, “A lot while that lil avocado was here at home, Orelis. Yah saved mah life with that gunnery command of yers… during that last sortie of mine… and I also lost many to mourn for…”


Indeed, Kaydaana only had her uniform partially on, mixed with separate flight suit leggings, forearm segments and bandages including one across her forehead.


“Oh, why don't you just -?!”
Noticing a difference, the grim officer suddenly became aware of change in the voice of the Manaani… deeper sorrows… Orelis suddenly cut between the two; immediately ending the foolish and childish argument. However, Naleigha was the one who was surprised because Orelis insisted to cover Kaydaana, “Whoa. No - Wait… Banana, please. I… need to head with her.”

“… Why? I've been waiting for you all this time, Orelis! You owe me!”, sadly, her jealously was making her sound foolish - reason enough for her to blush.


“I know, I know… but just not yet. This is not some date, Naleigha. We are grown-ups - no longer real youngsters”, again, he had that serious tone in his voice, “Listen. We will meet up later today. I assure you that.”

“W-What is this about, Orelis? You said you wanted to finally chill down. I-I thought you could come by! You said you promised me anything!”


Orelis laid his hands on the sides of her upper arms, “I think I was a little harsh to her, Banana. I apologize for this weird… change of mind - and for Kaydaana's acting, but this is something I have to do. I was too obsessed just getting back to Providence and out of duty that I actually overheard the sorrows of Kaydaana.”

“Are you with her or something -?!”

“No. Damn it. Listen. We went through a lot of bullshit and we need to…”


“Why don't you just come to me if you need to talk to somebody, Orelis? I thought I was closer to you than anybo-””

“You are. This is just… a duty as a commanding officer…”
As Orelis explained, the Nabaali woman stared over his shoulder upon the bandaged Manaani. Remarkably, that weird loudmouthed woman was not as strong-willed as she previously thought. The vicious glare from her poison-green eyes narrowed into worried look; the once proud pose of this slightly smaller but bosomy Manaani was a façade that somewhat broke into that of a frail girl… sorrowing.


You and your silly… military career - Always in our way…


“We all lost many operatives… marines… pilots… real friends… out there - much of them lost by confusions, screw-ups, guilty runabouts - sacrifices for the sake of our lives. I'm probably going to regret this, but I must head with her. It is a Manaani privilege and custom to mourn for those lives lost in battle with whomever serving the same pride - predominantly, I guess I was *sigh* honorably chosen by her. Granted, heading to a bar sounds… dumb… I thought Manaani would head to the nearest `Shrine of her Divinity' - but just knowing a bit about those Manaani customs, one cannot head there with definite shame.
I have no clue… what or why I am actually talking myself into this… but I know that it must be a shame greater than any being can't bear. I actually did hear of Kaydaana's past, some of it.”, he shortly looked back at the Manaani, “On top of that, she had responsibility for those pilots. I don't need to tell you how pilots and marines hang together as a kiith - We all grow that aspect sooner or later with our fellowship. The sorrow of losing a brothering warrior hits a Manaani worse than death. I won't lie to you, we will meet up and do anything… as I promise…”

Orelis lastly released Naleigha from his grip, leaving her behind as he guided the bandaged Manaani away, “I promise”.
The Nabaali advocate quietly stared at the two as they made their way.

Liar…

Almost an hour later...

Captain Quenton Soban held a long private conversation with Hailynn, Aira and the accompanying Velle Xoti Amaj. It was a conversation that revealed greater troubles awaiting them in the future, reasons for act of Pethera not commencing the tribunal, further thoughts and serious conclusions. The region outside Amaji High Command Center offered much space leading to a railing as they slowly walked; the inner city deep within Providence being visible far ahead, beneath the vast, shelled superdome.


“The true intentions of Doctor Pethera S'jet will remain unknown, Commander Delixa. However, I assure you that you may assume your life as spared”, the Sobani man slowly explained, “I need not to repeat what definite charges and guilt Doctor Asad Paktu has eluded lastly, but you must know of this: I have had a thorough conversation with Dr. S'jet. She has revealed that, albeit all disgust she has upon your persona, I have formed a… contract… with her.”

“S-Sir?”

“For the sake of your life, Delixa. But let me explain, as this contract has ended and my professional secrecy is now void. You have succeeded in lastly convincing Dr. Pethera of your intentions in accusing Dr. Asad for the considerable amount losses on his behalf. It was his relentless notion for greed that led to the deaths of many civilians of his corporation and several from our devoted operatives. You have also proven your ground and dignity for those around you. She is aware of this now. Alas, you defeated her as she conducted the order to Asad and his remaining crew to escape with their mining corvettes.”


“Captain. I may have exaggerated. We actually lost a few operatives on his behalf - but many more were lost on my behalf… truly. All losses that occurred beyond his true deed were my failures. Our marines on the derelict taiidan mothership, elite pilots… Shodanii… Kadeshi lives that could have been saved… and even deaths upon the small taiidan-turanic entourage that only… wanted to surrender.”

“I know you too well, Delixa.”, he shortly replied, before looking upon the silent kadeshi girl, “Delixa. You have everlastingly struggled for sake and honor… often did your intentions tangle with fate. Nonetheless. Never were we prepared to confront a Kadeshi Legacy in peril within the grip of a deadly remnant Vaygr crusade.”

The four stopped upon the platform; the Captain taking two to three steps further, “I apologize to you and your crew, Hailynn. I have failed to support your convincing attempt to High Command for the sake of the Kadeshi Seekers. Though I am sure a combined fleet of Amaji, other kiithid and maybe even a convinced taiiranic-entourage could rescue the several lives… yet, our capacities would not be able to dwell, comply and support the near endless numbers of Kadeshi lives - even those that remain by the onslaught as we speak just now. Not even Providence could support such capacity, even if it were able to hyperjump as long before. I understand that each second you stand here… breathing, bleeds sorrows with each lost life by that moment.”

Hailynn lowered her view; her sorrow attracted Velle's hand upon her shoulder.


“N-Naji?”, the girl suddenly called softly.
“Aira?”
All looked upon the girl that had been silent for a very long time. There was still note of calamity in the girl's mind that was for sure.


Aira's small hands gently fiddled with the necklace and the symbolic rock, frequently sensing the surfaces until she slowly stopped, “My naji, the wise man senses the affliction that plagues both of our souls”, her soft voice trembled as she spoke further, “Naji, you, the Amaji, the wise man, the furious and valiant ones - all of you have suffered sacrifices for the blood of my people. Terrors… so many terrors and atros…atroci… d-deaths have occurred upon my blod and yet… all of you sorrow so much for them. My Naji, you have promised to return to her dying divinity, `Kadesha's Ark'… but p-please, Naji, I must now beg you.”

Velle approached the girl along with Hailynn who wondered why the girl pled, “A-Aira… What are you…saying?”

The young enigmatic emissary opened her mysterious velvet eyes, “M-my people have accepted their fate… Th-the path of fate will lead to Kadesha's Tear… so said the majestic emulator… but the veiled destiny will lead them to their end. I beg you… Naji… Y-your sworn promise of return fills my heart with great woes!”, Aira suddenly became unease, “So many souls have fallen. I beg you… p-please… seize your promise! So many have died for the sake of my people… I have failed to bring my people to Rahji and lead them to what her divinity has blessed… n-no… cursed upon my soul! Pl-Please, do not follow the sworn promise! The Amaji have suffered enough…”


The Hiigaran woman suddenly griped both of Aira's, not believing what she begged for, “I cannot stop what I have sworn… I cannot allow them to die… not for the tale that has truth - Aira, Kadesha and Rahji are true! W-We cannot allow your people to be slain! I've sworn to return - I will not trust fate trying to end their existence… If that is so, fate is my enemy - just as Asad who caused deaths upon innocent lives.”


“Commander. You must be aware that fate has greater plans. I cannot explain. I am aware of your hatred and anger for Asad's persona… but… Have you been aware of the fact that Aira has found the most valuable evidence of her entrusted religion - by cause of that man? Of all myths, beliefs and scientific facts - never have I experienced such… revelation.
This stone - This material that some see as a worthless rock that was brought by a comet is true evidence to the legacy of the `Kadesha's Ark' and its believers who have ventured across the galaxy just to seek the so-called truth: Aira truly being the emissary and that the comet flew across the galaxy originating from the 'Sea of Lost Souls', the sole Garden of Kadesh - the `Tear' that was sent by the sorrow of a goddess to her lost love. Furthermore, if Asad had not excavated the minerals, she'd not be holding the most valuable destined object.”


Hailynn and Velle dropped their shoulders. Though Velle had lesser knowledge, she still could not believe what she heard.
“We Sobani are not believers, never are we to - but this did convince me that path of fate does exist. It is a cosmic combine I cannot define. However…”, he explained to them, “The Vjel-Amaj is an amazing vessel. It's crew, all of you have honored me throughout these last months of service with pride.”
Hailynn suddenly took a step forward, somewhat sensing what he was saying, “C-Captain?!”


“I congratulate you, Krin'sa Delixa, to the achievement of kiithidial voice. I was sorry to hear that you refused promotion. Despite your deeds and causes, you truly have deserved the promotion to the rank of Captain, I am assured of this. I hope someday you will rise. Nonetheless, this will be my last moment serving the Kiith Amaj as Captain. With the end of my serving contract for the Amaji Navy, I am to return to my Kiith Sobani Enclave serving the Hiigaran Empire.”
Both women revealed ongoing astonishment.

“Yes. It is true. This will be my last hour onboard Providence and Kiith Amaji. As fate brings lives together, it will also bring them apart. With my brethren recalling me to the enclave, it is clear that we will never see each other again considering the light years between Amaji Space and the Sobani territory. It may be so that we will never see each other in person again with these lives. Thus, with the Jumpship Shuttle readying its drives, it will be a farewell that will leave me with sorrows for leaving the best crew behind - but also with pride knowing that a successor will stand my position.”

Hailynn approached the Sobani Captain who firmly held his pose, “Y-Your last speech onboard… so it was… a formal farewell.”
“Yes. We have survived much terrors and hardships, Commander… long before when you were a young Ensign and novice helmswoman just entering service onboard the frigate TALON-VO.
We have struggled months of terror, famine, cold times, years of victories and failures. We have lost and found friends and - but also allies that formed to enemies. We were the first to discover the terrifying transport mount of the Atmospheric Deprivation Warhead. We experienced the end of a frightful war, the birth of the Kiith Amaj, later to join and serve onboard its pride, the Vjel-Amaj - and we have survived so long to speak of this last moment. Commander… no… Hailynn...”
Hailynn stuttered, tears flew from her single eye.

Not another loss… please no…

“I have always served the Sobani and the Amaj as a loyal Captain. I have always endured a strict distance between my crew and my persona as a Captain - So says the Soban. Yet, my family and enclave of Soban shall not know that I am about to bid the daughter I never had an eternal farewell. Yet… I sense an eternal bond between both of us, Hailynn. We may not be of… as the taiiranics would say… no of the same bloodkeii, but I sense this bond. It exists. So many years of survival cannot be forgotten just like that.”

Velle and Aira quietly stared at the two; neither hiding their sorrowing emotions.

At the same time, elsewhere.
The so-called Den happened to be a bar filled with various sorts of people. Excluding heritages, various pilots, civilians and other guests held conversations as slow jazz music ran in the background. Blue light and shadows gave this area a bleak appearance… much to the annoyance of Orelis who had been listening to the Manaani talking her tale of woe. The Nabaali Commander was deeply bugged by the surroundings, not to mention the gaseous product of those `cigarettes' that stung his nose.

Kaydaana almost spoke nonstop. Her story of depression started from the point she was excommunicated from the highest Manaani Enclave, the repelling acts from others, the deaths of her elite comrades, failures, her high age of 47, up to the point of `losing her man' to that dreaded Fenna Amaj. During the long depressing storytelling that actually continued, Orelis had to frequently witness the depressed Manaani boozing each served alcoholic drink with long deep swallows and her teasing by Manaani language and giggles. Though he understood that she felt terrible for the losses, Orelis' annoyance was near the boiling limit - almost regretting that he went along. While it was a traditional meeting, it totally went off-track.

“I can't believe I've actually dropped Naleigha for this!”, he suddenly said to her, interrupting her as he arranged his uniform and grabbed his duffle bag.

“Whuuuut? *mild burp*”
“I've had enough of your talking, Kaydaana. I'm going…”
Other guests tried to bypass Orelis, bumping into him.

“Wha-? Waaahaaayt *hiccup*”, the drunk Manaani slurred, “Ah havn't told ye… that womuhn -”
“'Stole yer man' - Damn it, Kaydaana, this is the twenty-third time you told me that! I don't care about that love-life between you, the Vaygr and that foolish Fenna… ”

“…If ye wouldn't care… Ye wouldn't be countin' ha-ha-ha *snorted giggles - sudden frown* But I tell you that- ”, she made a long pause - remarkably forgetting what she wanted to say, “I've lost mah-many friends Orel-boi…”, Kaydaana's eyes sunk to the empty jug left with foam, “D-don't tell meh I'm loozin' ye too - Don't tell meh yah headin' to that avo'cate-avocado… banana-woman whoz only gawt sized-pairs of apples in that lil bust…”

Orelis silently raised himself and jagged his credit card into the slot of the table with an immediate deducting payment. Despite not drinking anything, he pulled his card back and replied, “This is neither a date nor an attempt trying to lay any of you women.

This was clearly just a waste of time between two officers. Naleigha is none of your business, Kaydaana. I'm sorry, but I'm going - I paid off the bill. Head home to your apartment, Kaydaana. No more beers for you - and for frakk's sake, I'm going to have the barkeeper send you somebody to pick you up before I find you in a fistfight. Should've known this all was just a waste of TIME!”


He was harsh, but he did not care. She was going to be all right anyhow since she just wanted to blabber her crap… but just as Orelis turned his back and aimed for the exit, he suddenly stopped when he heard the Manaani say behind him, “Ah'm gonnah… dai, Orelis…”

“Hailynn. You must trust the crew. You are Krin'sa now and a Commander with the heart of supreme leadership. The crew will serve. Shall it be for good… or bad… Your heart wills the path of fate - Aira shall lead your eyes. She is the soul that will follow you - Wherever your heart may go. They will always be there for you. The fate of the Kadeshi Seekers may be sealed - but your heart and Aira soul can form fate… I know you can.”

Saluting both to Aira and Velle, the Captain honorably bid them fair well before focusing his view on Hailynn. Tears ran endlessly from her right eye; needless to say how sore the other one ached. Unable to hold back her emotions, the sorrowing Hiigaran hurled herself slightly forward, embracing the Sobani man as tightly as she could - He returned his thoughts with the same. Both officers hugged each other, forcefully, for they knew this was the first time and last time. Her blue slightly torn, wrecked and stained uniform squeezed tightly upon the Captain's black-red striped uniform. Hailynn hugged the officer… friend… and father she never had.


Hailynn could not hold her deepest thought back… daring to ask the Sobani to stay for the sake of Amaji… maybe even the Kadeshi sufferers… but she sensed his rejection - His Kiith was recalling him. He had no choice.

It was a long hug… and took much effort to actually release the man. She could not explain the feelings… Love for a man? Perhaps… but more of a long time trusted father figure. Quenton knew Hailynn like no other. War heroes… veterans… survivors... They both were such… but it was time. Hailynn knew she could not keep him. Fate would not let it - Something she could not change… Drastic measures were out of the question.
Instinctively, both slowly slipped their arms away from each other, each then made half a step away from each other.

A long trustful stare… leading to hands meeting to a trembling shake. Simultaneously, both of their hands formed the three gestures of Amaj - Brotherliness, Freedom… and Pride. The right-handed fists knocked softly against their left side, lifted and stretched the palm to a solid, firm and lastly elegant salute.

“You have done me proud, Krin'sa, Commander, Hailynn Delixa. Pride.”
“Y-You have done me proud, Warrior, Captain, Quenton Soban… Pride.”

The Manaani had been chuckling, having hiccups and blabbering nonsense as the troubled Orelis supported her with his shoulder to her designated barracks that was not far from bar while carrying both of their duffle baggage. The Nabaali officer quietly withstood her teasing once they finally arrived at the entrance of her apartment. Thankfully, nobody but the guards from the post saw him carrying the drunken woman.

“*giggles again*”

“WHAT?!”

The drunken Manaani blew the strains of her hair off her eyes, also blowing her alcoholic breath into his face, “See - Ye care for meh aft'r ahhll, ey. Or are ye just tryin' to land hit on a Manaani, Nabaali-boi?”

“Open the door. Let us talk - Seriously.”


It took much effort and patience from Orelis until the Manaani pulled out the keycard from her bags. Lastly carrying her inside and closing the door, he rushed in with her and immediately looked around for a place to put down the small drunken but heavy woman.

Settling - or actually - tossing her on a sofa, he immediately took a breather and looked around. Her apartment was not really tidy, but had lots of exotic things and objects spread throughout the room. From weird looking skulls to those even weirder looking fetishes and carvings from her Manaani heritage. The air was stuffy, surely caused by the minimal settings of air conditioning… and the weird things around. Orelis did not care much anyways.


“Gonnah git down on a Manaah-ni, Oh-rei-lis?”, she slurred with a bad excuse of a seductive voice.
“KNOCK IT OFF, KAYDAANA”, he immediately barked.
She bounced back slightly, “Whut wrong with you… Ah'm not that-?”

His serious stare did not change, “Kaydaana. Listen carefully. At the bar, you said you were going to die? That did not sound as a joke of yours - at all.”
“I… Ah did? Oh…”, Kaydaana stuttered and started to giggle and laugh…


Orelis hated every second he wasted with this drunken woman. Practically every single sign of consideration from his side was replied with an unthankful, unforgiving prank; frequently cursing each moment wasted instead of having gone with Naleigha for a talk. It was true, good deeds are never left unpunished.

Lastly, Orelis made a long sigh. Maybe her quote was just another - Sobs… sudden subs sounded from her lowered face. When hearing her sobs, the cynical man suddenly dropped his crossed arms. Never did he see the strong-willed Manaani bursting into tears… It was an unreal moment that caught him offguard.


Kaydaana wiped her tears and combed her hair, soon removing it from her side, she began to fiddle with the side of her flight suit chest piece after dropping the uniform jacket from her shoulders. Apparently observing her deed, Orelis frantically said, “Whoa, stop -!”, hoping she would refrain from taking off her clothes.
However, the man presumed wrongly; she was not removing all of her clothes but a specific region - Her left shoulder and the skin of her swarthy back. Did she want a back scratch to kill an itch? Or was she trying to pull something on him?
Wait, what is that?

Taking steps closer, the Nabaali spotted something unusual: The skin was outright darker than her natural skin - fooling his eyes as he first thought it was just shadow. Revealing a bit more, the sorrowing Manaani showed that it truly was some sort of large burn mark riddled across the left shoulder to the back.

“W-What is this, Kaydaana?”

She hesitated to answer.

“Dawk Jonas found that on mah *hick* back after mah retuhrn from that last sorteh after yah scared-aweff that `Bandit' trranic. Y-Yah r'member mah ship was struhck befoah? ”


He nodded, “Aye. Heard your fighter took a direct hit to the cockpit. Believe me, all of us were glad you survived. Mechanics later told me that was some sort of heavy Titanium-Sabot bolt.”

“N-nawt quite… What yah see on mah back is the result of…”, she sniffed many times, “Dawk said it was the result of cells affected b-by raydie-ashn”, and slurred due to her drunken state.

“W-What? Radiation?! No hold on. I know the cockpit itself can protect pilots from intensive sources of radiation! N-no, wait… Don't tell me that…”
“The bolt wasn't jus' some sorta Tits… Titan… Sabot rownd, Orrrl's. The shell's head was not made of `tanium… but of some short-livin' dense material that contained raydio-active *hick*…”, Kaydaana wove her hands many times, wanting to explain but could not find the words.


The Nabaali man looked around before aiming his view upon the Manaani woman who revealed this… disease. Apparently, Naleigha was going to be alone for this nightfall.


“Dawk said I received a dose of t'is raydiation jus' less than ah second, Orrrlis. Can yah imagine that, huh? The shell missed mah head and shouldah… and sprayed its crap all over the side behind me”, Kaydaana shook her head many times, “I… The… Doctor said mah blood… and skin was… and is contaminated…
P-poisonous. I felt a single burn… a sting… when the radiation hit mah back… Now… I feel nothing… b-but- It is there. Cancerous. Dawk said th-there's no true cure - Neither the Bentusi can cleanse mah blood. Itsa dreaded contamination like that cancer… Slowly killing me.”


Never did Orelis expect something so serious. But he, too, had to understand that this skilled and strong-willed Manaani was a living kushan being like all of them.

“Just ah year, Orrlis… Maybe a bit more… Is - Is t'is how mah life will end? Without anybodeh on mah side… How'm I to survive? Infertile… left with ah year of life… excommunicated from mah true Kiith? I… Ah… I am Manaani… H-how c'n this happ'n like this to me… I am a cowerd… *sniff* I can't even tell this to Haileh…”


Feeling a sudden considerate hug, Kaydaana felt the closeness of Orelis; he sat down next to her, quietly holding the Manaani with his hand. Orelis said nothing but remained shocked, not a single word left his lips as the woman burst into further tears. He sat there with her… quietly, letting the night quietly pass by.

The Captain quietly handed his officer's cap and a strange medal Hailynn never identified nor dared to ask. It was symbolic… It had a deeper meaning.

“Recover well from suffered injuries. Rejoice our homecoming. Take care of yourself as how Velle would take care of you. Take care of Aira, for she is the precious soul we must protect and follow. Amaj is a world I wish I could continue to protect… but fate has a different path for me. I will not be able to attend the honor ceremony for our losses, yet I will heed your voice during the speech over the media. Farewell.”


Their views followed the Captain whose steps slowly moved away from them. The cold wind from the sequenced vent that pulsed into the entire city was a cold remembrance of reality; The faint gush was a mere sign of fate, revealing that she was soon exposed to a veiled fate and future, to follow and venture a path unknown.
Alone…

-= End of Part I =-