Alternate Journals: Leviathan Rising (1)

The new ship Leviathan set sail from a hidden port-cover sitting nearly on the border between China and the Mongol territories. After nearly a year in port, our escapee engineer Lockey had installed and tested the basic system of the toys she had escaped with from Lemuria. It was half a year when I had meet this insane Lemurian engineer but she had been true to her words at giving me a chance to make a difference in a war the world ignored. I do remember that day well as I exited the long boat in a humming harbour to find myself being tackled to the dock by her.

“Damn idiots!” she screamed. She had me under her even if my girth was double her weight. “Rift open!” she continued in that angered voice. I was finally able to look pass her to the sky over the Lemurian harbour.

“Weapons out!” I hollered from under her. “We have incoming!” I added. I rolled with her getting her under me as the first creature landed by us. I slashed to parry it's claw swipe before thunder rolled by me. Yard long spines of metal drove themselves into the beast as it attempted a second attack.

“Get your men clear and yourself off of me!” Lockey growled from under me. I obeyed her last request as I moved to peer over the edge of the dock to our long boat. My four sailors had dispatched two already while protecting the cabin boy huddled between their feet. They stood back to back ready to defend themselves.

“My men seem fine where they are.” I yelled back at her. “Now what in the Nine Hells below the waves is happening?” I continued. I moved to stand defensively at her side as she stood. I was not a small man but felt short next to this nine foot beauty holding a  metallic handled tube in her hands.

“They decided to test something the really should not have.” she stated. Her anger was palpable as I stood with her on the dock watching the show. Yard long shards of metal flew skyward to pierce the creatures tumbling from a multicoloured rip in the celestial vault. I gazed around slowly spotting the machine that ejected these projectiles lining the harbour edges. “They never listen to a junior engineer even if she is waving proof in their faces.” she grumbled. She rose the tube in her had to flash the closest creature with a reddish light that made it topple over smoking.

“Nice toys you have here.” I muttered. I slashed another creature down with a clean swipe.

“You seem to hold your own without them.” she returned.

“Us human might not have toys but are resourceful in our own way.” I remarked. I heard her giggling as she fired at a few other creatures moving on us. I slashed toward the other side keeping them at bay as we fought as a team back to back. “The name is Balthis.”

“Lockey.” she returned between pulsing flashes from her tube. “The idiots did not even bother looking at my notes on this drive they decided to test in the open harbour of all places.” she grumbled again.

“Would not get that treatment on the Leviathan if I can ever get it back in the water.” I said easily. I know it was a foolish idea but as my words escaped me, I knew she would be a perfect member of my pieced together crew. “Ever considered being a sailor?” I added laughing. I parried a claw while flipping my blade to decapitate the attacker in one slice.

“Would be silly!” she replied laughing. “Engineers need things to build and play with.” she remarked as her laugh died in her throat. “I would need a way of get a few crates out with me.” she stated in half whisper.

“Got two long boats on the Hessian Pride that can run supplies for that tub.” I returned with a chuckle. I heard a laugh from her before the sizzle of that toy in her hand blasted another time. “Come here to find something called a 'lodestone' to repair a gift from a friend.” I added quickly.

“You came all this way for a worthless piece of rock?” she answered. “Have the boats at the southern side of the Island as close to the wall as you can get them.” she continued. “I bring you a lodestone and a few other tricks including myself Balthis.” she explained. “But do not think this gives you or your sailors the right to touch me.” she added laughing.

“Like all the rest of the handful of lasses that travel on my Leviathan.” I replied. Once the invaders were beaten back the rift closed as the humming stopped in the harbour. “Still agreeing to our terms?” I asked quietly to her.

“See you on the southern side in three hours time.” Lockey returned with a wink to me. I nodded as I head back to the ladder down to the long boat. The sailors looked at me as I order them back to the Hessian Pride without grabbing any supplies.

“You had me drag this tub hundred of leagues to come back empty handed?” captain Hummock screamed at me. We stood on the deck of his supply tub after returning from the battle in the Lemurian harbour. “What are you pulling Balthis?” he growled at me.

“We have the supplies set to dropped off to us but will be need all the long boats to collect them.” I explained calmer than I felt. “Two at the least but thinking that all four would be better for us to move faster to return to you.” I continued. I could not hide the smirk that formed on my face as I spoke. “Including a new recruit for my crew direct from Lemurian stock.” I added.

“You would trust one of those warmongers on your ship?” Hummock howled in laughter at me.

“I trust she will get my ship back to the waters sailing faster than your floating piece of debris.” I retorted angrily. “I take the ships with two sailor per boat to collect my supplies.” I stated bluntly. “Or would you rather fight me for them?” I added. It was a jest but I must have looked menacing as he nodded to me backing away with his hands up in defeat.

I sat in a long boat just shy of three hours mark with the other three boats behind mine. We had placed ourselves in line with our hull nearly touching the stone fortifications of Lemuria's protective wall that reached a good league skyward. We waited in silent fear of the Lemurian considering us enemies and attacking from above. The only sound was the waves lapping against the stone wall that reached our ears. The burbling sound and jet of water nearly had us bolting from the spot before the first odd container surfaced in the surging water a few yards south of us. Nearly two dozen crates as Lockey called them had surfaced before us bobbing gently as the water began calming again.

“I must be mad.” Lockey screamed at us. “I am seeing double.” she added. She swam with the grace of a fish toward my long boat. “Start collecting those boxes you fools!” she screamed. She climbed into the long boat easily still breathing hard and coughing a bit.

“You heard the lady!” I interjected. “Start collecting!” I ordered. I turned to face Lockey as she lay in the boat. “Another little trick of yours?” I asked her.

“A water disposal tube.” she explained between breaths. “I would have surfaced faster if I wanted to lose one of those crates.” she explained.

“Do I get to know what you have just collected for us?” Balthis asked suspiciously.

“Toys for an engineer to play with and help get your Leviathan ready to face any threat.” she replied with a sad smile. “I have one last request for you but it will wait until we reach your real ship captain Balthis.” she concluded. She offered me a Lemurian naval salute that I laughed at before saluting her as one of my crew by grasping her forearm and forcing her hand unto mine.

Lockey remained with her crates allowing myself only to sit with her next to them. She rarely spoke more than a few words of thanks for the food I brought her and for giving her a way to leave Lemuria. It was a two weeks of hard sailing for the Hessian Pride to return to the cove where I had the Leviathan in dry-dock. Lockey watched the men moving her crates of toys, screaming at them to be careful gaining some dark and some confused glances from the mix of people in this small hidden port.

It was nearly two days before she allowed me to enter the room she had dubbed her engine room. My first impression was utter shock seeing this metallic monstrosity the filled most the centre of this space. She was still working on one of the pieces of it when I answered her summon. She did not turn to face but seemed to reach out to touch an odd glassy window. Crystals glowed softly as the beast hummed to life under her hand.

“What are you doing to my ship?” I growled at her back. She chuckled as she stood to her full nine foot height nearly touching the rafters.

“Making your ship the fastest thing on the water.” she replied. She turned smiling at me. “This is part of what I spirited out of Lemuria which does make me a criminal handing it over to you.” she explained. “But I have a reason that forces me to do this.” she continued. I looked at her as I spotted what I had to believe was resignation in her eyes. “What you saw in Lemuria is not an isolated thing.” she said slowly.

“Now you have me confused.” I replied softly.

“Rifts like what opened above the harbour there happen all over the globe from what we have discovered.” she reported. “Each time one opens, more rift creatures gain access to our world destroying much before finally being hunted down and killed.” she explained slowly. She motioned to the contraption. “That drive will help us reach those spots to stop them before they can cause any damage.” she added.

“You want this ship to be a hunter ship?” I marvelled at her. “Put my men's lives in danger fighting those things?” I continued. She stared at me in silence. “Without weapons and defences, we do not stand much of a chance.” I concluded frustrated.

“Two weeks to have the velocity cannon up and running on the prow of the ship.” she began as a smile formed on her dusky face. “Another week to get shields working.” she continued ticking it of on her fingers. “A month or two to test them out before thinking of what else I can install on this barge.” she added with a chuckle. I nodded slowly while thinking about her words.

“And why should an old sea dog like me try to be a hero?” I retorted feigning anger.

“Because you want to.” she answered quietly. “I saw how you rolled me over protecting me as I had done tackling you to the ground.” she stated louder. “You and your men fought instead of running away like most outlanders would have done.” she continued. The crescendo rise of her tone was startling to me but not a surprise. “If enough of them enter, this world will become theirs.” she added with finality.

“So I believe you should get to work instead of talking my ear off.” I returned before laughing. “I am giving you five months to get this ship fully ready to hunt.” I told her. “But no testing in the harbour, understand?” I added with a wink to her. She stared at me dumbfounded at first. The smile slowly grew brightening her dark skinned face. She salute me before turning to pounce at the engine and flip through odd glass tablets that sat near it. I laughed and left her to her work knowing that a new life started for this old ship and it's captain.

It would be years before I was able to run across my old friend “the dread bird Kestrel” that now bore the name of Melchia a roman citizen with a minor reputation of causing changes around him. Lockey was surprised as he looked over her work and could make suggestions she had not yet thought of. But all of that can wait for another day for me to speak of. I must hurry to reach Melchia now stationed in Atlantis keeping Lockey locked in her engine room until he and his two guests are unloaded.

Escape from Atlantis (12)

Four years passed as I played the role of Envoy for the Ones On High while still rushing off form time to time to correct problems in the outer world as was my duty to the Ley'ä'Luna and the Fallen Ones. I had travelled alone so far, leaving my three-member retinue in Atlantis but I knew eventually I would have to have them accompany me. Four years of hearing me speak of my adventures and times spent in the world placed the thought of seeing it for themselves in my trio of companions' minds for very different reasons.

“And is that herb available on Atlantis?” Meli asked excitedly. I handed her a small bag with a knowing smile. “Leaves, roots, and seeds?” she commented.

“They will be available to you once you get them to grow.” I replied. She had learned the basic ideas of my cosmic healing technique charging the air around and inside her with positive energy. It worked the same way as mine but was still earth based which was her magical essence.

“How many more plants in the outer world could help us?” she asked over her shoulder. She was already sowing the seeds in a section of our private garden. I could see it clearly in her mind. She saw the world as an unexplored source of medical species unknown to Atlantis. She would find that plants can both heal and harm but this was her chosen path to take in the outer world.

As Sert and I spared, I utilized a new martial technique bringing our session to a crashing halt.

“What was that manoeuvre?” he asked. I had to twist to not hit him with my sword tip as he froze with his question.

“Something I pick up during my last trip.” I answered quickly. I stood staring at him disapprovingly. “And you should not stop in the middle of a battle like that Sert.” I reprimanded. He blushed at my words and nodded sheepishly at me. “I always study the martial types of the lands I visit to help improve my own skills.” I informed him.

“There must be a multitude of styles foreign to Atlantis in the outer world.” he returned pensively.

“As different as each area of the world is.” I stated. “Including many weapons unavailable and unheard of in Atlantis.” I continued.

I read his thought as he remained in silent at my words. The driving force in his mind was discovery how to use every weapon and discover counters for every technique the outer world created. This was not to be invincible in battle but a thirst for knowledge in his chosen field as a soldier. It was his tactical thinking that was at the source of this thirst which was noble enough for me to encourage and try eventually to show him directly.

“Most of these clans and towns sound barbaric to me.” Cole remarked. We waited to speak with the Council regarding possible trades between the satellites and the closest outpost of the remaining world.

“They do not have the benefits available to Atlantians.” I returned with a shrug.

“I would rather remain in Atlantis with our superior troops and technologies.” he stated bluntly. His thoughts betrayed him as he began seeing the outside world as an easy conquest for Atlantis. I sighed at him. “The outer world has nothing to offer that we cannot go without on Atlantis.” he added.

“The beauty and majesty that can be found away from Atlantis?” I retorted.

“And people living like animals.” he replied. “If Atlantis ruled them all, they would prosper under our enlightened leadership.” he added under his breath. So for four years I resisted bringing them with me because of Colêsträ's misguided views.

Noble intentions of Sert and Meli to improve their knowledge was unfortunately out weighed by Cole's ambitions but they were slowly winning me over. The Council would be up in arms if I left their spy behind while allowing Annianka's spies to see the world with me. They would do anything to stop me from doing this shy of trying to attack me directly. I had gain the favour of the Atlantian people, the Royal Guards, and Annianka herself keeping them at bay for now. But they could do nothing if it happened suddenly.

“I will be absent for the nest month or so doing my duty for the Council.” Colêsträ announced. I had already foreseen this event and had an old friend bringing his ship to collect me and my two acceptable voyaging companions.

“Sad to hear that Cole.” Meli remarked with a sardonic grin.

“We will miss having to sneak around you.” Sert commented with a chuckle.

“Hopefully your duties to the Council do not tax you too much since I will need you to help solidify the trading rules with them once you return.” I stated not looking at him. “And we will all miss those delicious meals you prepare.” I added unemotionally. I felt Sert and Meli holding back laughing outright at my words. Cole bowed toward me before sneering at the others. He left in a rush before I smiled.

“So what can we do that would be fun while the snake is away?” Sert asked.

“Any ideas Kestrel?” Meli remarked. She had seen the sudden smile on my face and suspected I had something planned.

“Packing your things for a six to nine month stay away from Atlantis.” I replied quickly. “And understand what you are being offered as you pack.” I told them. I went quickly to my room while they followed to gather their gear. My travel bag was already packed and I placed my ocarina in my shoulder back with a money pouch I had collected during my other travels. My companions stood in the upper hallway with nothing but a shoulder bag and their normal Atlantian packs. “The outer world is not like Atlantis.” I reminded them. They stared at each other and rushed back into their room. I waited a few moments before they returned with back packs on. I looked and rolled my eyes realizing the packs were nearly empty. “Are you both sure you have thought of everything you need?”

“We are ready!” Sert stated smiling.

“Prepared fully Kestrel.” Meli added. I felt the exhilaration coming from both of them but could see in their mind that they barely understood what they were about to face.

“Let us be off to the harbour, our ship should be arriving soon.” I answered. I sighed mentally but could do nothing more than leave them to discover on their own. We rushed through the Atlantian street as on lookers waved believing I was off alone for another adventure unknown that two Atlantian were receiving a boon. As we reached the pathway leading to the harbour, Captain Curd stood looking aggressive with a contingency of Feline Guards around him. He barred our the access to the harbour.

“Lord Kestrel.” he greeted me curtly. “A foreign ship has breached our harbour without docking.” he stated in accusing tones.

“It's named 'Leviathan' Captain and its purpose is to be our transport to the outer world.” I responded with feigned calmness. “It should be flying the white truce flag or that of the desert bloom.”

“It flies the black flag of death.” Curd answered. I tore pass him before he could react. I heard him follow with Sert, Meli, and his guards muttering curses as they ran. The ship sat dead in the water as if waiting for a sign. The black flag crowned with a skull and cross bones fluttered in the wind but nothing else moved upon the vessel. All they saw was me blinking out of existence at the edge of the docks while the troops spread out to cover the harbour.

I reappeared on the deck of the ship to dive into the hold to discovered this ship had been attacked by rift creatures. I found the lone survivor wide eyed and madly rocking as he hugged his knees to his chest. I grappled him and made ready to guide the ship to harbour using telekinesis when I spotted it. They had not fully cleared the ship as my mind touched a dozen or more rift minds tearing through the ships lower holds.

“Damn it Balthis!” I exclaimed. With a mental blast I rammed the rift beast through the wooden wall. My mind focused on the flaming heart of a sun. I shielded us mentally before unleashing the flames that consumed the ship and the beast around us.

To the onlookers at the dock, a tense moment of silence had passed before the white flames erupted from stern to aft. The ship turned to ashes before their eyes raising gasps and shrieks from those witnessing it. As the ashes cleared from the up draft created by my solar flare, they could finally see me floating slowly back to the dock carrying the survivor to port.

Meli had her healer's bag opened pulling out crystals and prepared slaves to treat most injuries. I touched down lightly upon the dock as they realized that the survivor was barely a teen. He was wide eyed and fear was the only injury he had truly suffered. He did not remain on his feet as I placed him by me. He returned to madly rocking as he sat with his knees clutched to his chest.

“All gone.” he kept repeating as he rocked. Another ship came into view curbing around the last ridge before the harbour of Atlantis. A pristine white flag and a flag bearing the emblem of the desert bloom flew from the main mast as it slowly moved to moor where we stood.

“That would be the 'Leviathan' Captain Curd.” I stated softly. I had sense his tiger nature flaring as his troops tensed. “They must have sent the other ship ahead while protecting it from their attackers.” I added. I pointed at the boy rocking in the throws of fear driven madness.

“Did Lockey's trick get the ship here in one piece Melchia?” A scraggly faced man screamed from the deck.

“Yes Balthis!” I hollered back.”I got the poor wrench before the dozen or so you missed got to him.” I remarked. “Had to ignite the powder keg to clean it up.” I added glaring up at him. The plank slipped into place as Balthis vaulted from the deck to the dock. He landed hard on his feet straightening with a smirk on his bearded face.

“But you would have no fun if I were cautious Melchia.” he replied with a rumbling laugh. “But that aside,” he stated more seriously, “You contacted me with that evil bird thing of yours so I'm here.” He locked arm with me grappling my forearm in his beefy grasp. “Where do you need to get in a hurry?”

“Why does he not call you by your name Sir?” Sert interjected. Meli and him had moved to his sides ready to be off before Captain Curd began asking for answers. I could read from their mind that they expected a normal Atlantian introductions to this odd man.

“Have you changed your name again Melchia?” Captain Balthis stated still smiling.

“Sertian, Mekiliean, this is captain Balthis who will be taking us to the outside world.” I said calmly. A small confused growl from Captain Curd was ignored as I prepared for Balthis reaction to my old name resurfacing. “As for my name, you old sea wolf.” I stated slowly. Balthis eyes had narrowed already in suspicion. “I have been renamed as 'Kestrel' while I am in their service.” I told him slowly. My eyes remained locked with Balthis' seeing them suddenly widen as my words sunk in. He stepped back from me looking spooked and pale. “It still brings bad memories to you?” I added with a chuckle.

“Like seeing that black beast of a bird you send messages with long ago.” he returned eyeing me closely. “When will you decide to get a pigeon or a dove as a messenger?” he asked as he chuckled forcibly.

“When I stop letting myself be a misplaced soul.” I replied with a shrug. “We require passage to the Gulf of Aqaba and a return trip from Circe's Island in six months time.” I continued softly. Once again the colour drained from Balthis' face as he stared into my eyes hoping it was simply a farce. He nodded slowly after a moment of pondering silently.

“Why does it seem there is a problem with all this?” Meli remarked. She looked from Balthis' face and mine while the captain's gaze remained locked on me. Our standoff was ruptured by a shrill screech as a evil looking black bird dove at me. It flared its wings at the last moment to land on my shoulder gently. It glanced around as they all could see the matted and misplaced feathers on this bird type that bore my name.

“No Meli.” I answered. I absently scratched at the bird's neck and head ruffling more feathers. “He just does not like my choice of collection point.” I continued. The kestrel on my shoulder screeched as it twisted to rub closer against my hand. “Missed me my little thunder?” I asked casually to the bird. It screech and chirped his answer to me. “Go sit over the crow's nest, we will be leaving soon.” I ordered, The bird launched itself from my shoulder flying directly to the main mast to perch.

“We should be leaving if you wish to make landfall before night is upon us.” Balthis stated with a small smirk.

“This is not normal that Atlantians outside the Royal Guards visit the outer world.” Captain Curd retorted. I smiled and nodded at Balthis before leading my two companions up the gangplank to the deck. Captain Curd stood fuming on the dock as we sailed away.

Travelling Atlantis and the Nobles (11)

“Sorry Lord Kestrel.” Sert suddenly stated mortified. I sense they all came to the same incorrect conclusion. “We should have told you the information and allowed you to write it in your own tongue.” he added frustrated. I chuckled under my breath as I rimed off a few of the comments in flawless high Atlantian. All stared dumbfounded at me as I glanced up from the sheet in my hands.

“I prepared myself extensively for this visit to Atlantis.” I told them. I did not wish to reveal that no written language was foreign to me because of my gift of reading the words of the Ley'ä'Luna. My own true language would eventually be understand as my visions told me in the form of mathematics once the Fallen Ones survived their darkness in the far future.

“Your gifts and knowledge of Atlantis surprises us.” Cole commented. He still riffled through the invitations with a look of confusion on his face. A flash from Cole's mind showed he would inform the Council of this ability to read Atlantian and not just speak it. It took but a passing thought in my mind to make the idea disappear from my attache's mind. I would rather leave the Council in the dark about my abilities until I needed to use them to gain an edge over them if needed.

“You should see him with the dolphins or on the field of honour.” Sert stated without thinking. This earned him a hard kick under the table from Meli who remained silent about what she had seen me do so far.

“I performed much research before my inglorious arrival upon Atlantian shores.” I returned bashfully. Meanwhile I erased the thoughts Sert's comment caused in Cole's mind. “The only thing you have not noted is when these visits should start.” I continued calmly.

“We can start whenever you wish to begin Sir.” Meli answered quickly. Sert and Cole snickered as they looked at her while I understood what she was suggesting.

“And what mode of transportation would be available to us?” I asked. I already knew the answer that sat in her mind. “Our two feet?” I persisted with a smirk. She simply smiled at me in silence. I transposed myself from one end to the other end of the room. “Or like this?” I held back the laugh as Cole's and Sert's head snapped around to glance at my new location in the room. Meli giggled at them gaining a dark glare from Colêsträ.

“Most being with magical abilities can use the portalling engines placed throughout Atlantis.” she explained still giggling. “I guess you two will have to run to keep up to us.” she added mischievously. Cole glared evilly at her but Sert suddenly became pensive. I did not peek into his thought focusing on Meli's idea which would be impossible for me without physical having visited them prior to attempting transposing myself there.

“I believe I can keep up.” Sert stated as a smirk formed on his lips. “Not sure about Cole since he looks a little out of shape.” he added. Meli stared at him for a minute of confusion before I spotted understanding glow in her eyes.

I mentally shuffled through my knowledge of Atlantis discovering the answer without touching their minds. Each district had static portal points set to easily transport troops or supplies over the whole of Atlantis including the dozen satellite islands. They were rarely used but still remained powered and operational for emergencies. It was Sert's knowledge of military history that had given him a way of keeping up indirectly with Meli and myself during these visits to nobles.

“Well Cole,” I began sadly, “I believe you get to keep the hearth warm for our return.”

“I hope you will have a meal ready since all that running will make me very hungry.” Sert commented smiling at him.

“And have water ready to make tea since we will be parched from speaking to nobles all day long.” Meli added. They rose as I moved quickly for the door. Cole stood looking rejected as we escaped before he could protest our plan. I was sure I would eventually hear from the Council about having left their spy behind.

The portalling station sat within a block of our residence. The walk was short and in silence as Sert lead the way along the street that was still mostly empty. It was a point I had not understood. How such a grand city's streets never had much foot traffic but when most could transpose themselves instead of walking it was understandable. Very few beings born in Atlantis did not have some mystic power gifted to them which left a very small portion that needed to use the streets to travel upon.

The lone guard straightened as we entered. Sert moved forward at him with open arms before they fell into a whispered discussion. Sert was smiling as he returned to us motioning that we should move to the shimmering archway built in middle of the room. Sert stood by us on the platform when he signal to the guard. The guard nodded back before the spaces within the archway crackled with energy. An image formed there that I had to believe was our destination which did not appear to be another station. Sert motioned us forward smiling to himself. Meli lead the way as we entered the archway in single file with Sert at our back.

I felt space rushing by us like I normally did when I utilized one of my own portals but I did not sense either Meli or Sert could feel this motion. We exited in a empty street a few yards away from were a trio of nobles had planed a group meeting with us on one of the far satellite islands. I went over the notes I still held in my hands to see what type of people I was about to meet. Meli stood quietly at my side while Sert paced around us watching for movement.

“All three are Franken?” I stated softly to Meli.

“It would be akin to a lesser form of a Count.” she informed me simply. I nodded my thanks to her receiving the same in return. “All refused to sit upon the Council or so Cole informed us.” she added quickly. I nodded once more as I read the last note about them.

“They believe the true Princess of Atlantis will return to sit upon the throne?” I asked incredulously.

“Yes.” Meli answered sadly. “Even after nearly a thousand years.” she added in a whisper.

“Best we move forward to meet them then.” I replied smiling casually. The three had banded their request for a visit together to strengthen their position. A handful of guards stood around but most were older guards that had retired before taking a position with these men.

“Welcome Lord Kestrel ...” the first stated.

“Envoy to the Ones On High ...” the second continued.

“We are humbled that you accept our request.” the last one concluded. I was impressed since I could feel the animosity and distrust these three men felt for each other. Like the Council, the nobles appeared divided into factions as well. Sert eyed the guards present while in his mind the fact that they were mixed and not in separate groups had him confused and distracted. Meli stared politely at the three men as I read the same confusion at their behaviour as I felt. The second and third man signalled that the first one begin the discussion. He nodded politely to them before turning once more to face me.

“We wish to speak of ideas we have to better Atlantis and the outer world that is frowned upon by the Council.” he stated slowly. “Each of us have our own concepts but cannot move forward because of the edicts placed upon Atlantians.” he continued.

“Trade would be of benefit to all and my fleet would be ready to transport the supplies.” the second stated at this point. The first looked smiling at him before returning his gaze at me.

“Even if we have problems between us, we must put this aside for the betterment of Atlantis.” he said softly.

“Sitting upon an unjust system of ruling would not help our people.” the third Franken added bluntly.

“Your word sound wise and thoughtful so far.” I answered them. They smiled and glanced at each other. I felt the tension that held them apart lessen as they realized the benefit of working and speaking as one group. “Please explain what you believe would be of use for your trades.” I said. Benches and tables were suddenly being dragged out to us. We sat in a circular table with the three nobles taking position across from me. Meli stood at my right while Sert stood a few feet behind me watching the guards with his back toward me.

“Animal for meat, wool, and other normal items from the outer world would be a great boon for Atlantis.” the first replied. He signalled and tea was brought forward with delicacy of Atlantian kitchens to us. “We have access to minerals, bolts of cloth, and delicacies that could be used for trading with them.” he continued.

We have methods to turn the raw wool into thread as fine as silk but much hardier when weaved together.” the third man commented.

“Meat is a rare commodity in the satellites of Atlantis.” the second added in quickly.

“But why discuss these ideas with myself?” I asked perplexed.

“Your words carry much weight in Council and our Holy Heart.” the first Franken stated bluntly. “We cannot get them to see reason or wisdom and hoped you could intercede on our behalf with them.” he continued. “We do understand this request is beneath your title noble Envoy but ...” he began as emotion chocked his words.

“We are speaking to the only one we see that could possibly assist us.” the second took up quickly. He placed on hand on the first ones' shoulder gently.

“We are not far from a settlement that is profitable for trades and is not trapped in an empirical ruling.” the third added softly.

“It would help them remain free from conquest driven humans with Atlantis connected to them.” the second returned with a half smile. I had scanned their mind through our discussion seeing only truth in their words even if petty jealousies held them separated. They believe I could order the Council to abolish the trading rules allowing them to help Atlantis in their own way. They knew that their own distrust and animosity would work against them as they continued reaching out to each other for the strength to convince me helping them.

I resist the urge to tell them to trade illegally with the world with each other helping to hide their actions to the Council. Annianka chose this moment to show she had been listening into my thoughts.

“I will back them even if they have do it illegally.” she stated. “The Council would not stand a chance with both of us standing together against them.” she added with a soft but dark giggle. I slammed the connection between us closed quickly. I had been a fool for not having guarded myself against her abilities. Meli touched my arm gently as the three Franken stared in fear at me. I saw the reflection in their eyes at the grimace that had twisted my face and the ghostly spinning sparkles of the twin stars that sat within my eyes.

“Sorry.” I interjected quietly. “I received a message from an old friend I did not want to deal with at this time.” I explained sheepishly. Meli glanced back toward Sert before returning her gaze to me.

“Maybe we should return if there is a problem that must be dealt with Sir.” Sert suggested quickly. He moved to stand on my left side examining my eyes closely. I could read in their eyes that they knew who the messenger was.

“Or if you need a moment to respond in private Sir.” Meli hazarded. My companions looked nervous about my resistance to respond to Annianka right away.

“Everything will be fine without my direct attention at this time.” I assured them. They glanced at me one last time before returning to their positions. “You mentioned a method to turn raw wool into silken style threads?” I returned toward our hosts. I slowly chewed on a pastry while the basic lines of the process was explained to me. I nodded from time to time as all three gave reasons that this material could be of use on Atlantis and in the other world beneficially.

I marvelled in my mind how these three could speak without stepping on each others words or thoughts. Each stated their points clearly as individuals and how as a group they could make Atlantis benefit from their ideals. I pondered how many more of these nobles I would be asked to help by facing off with the Council of Atlantis over trade ideas. I bid them good parting promising to give their request a fair judgement before the Council.

“This will be repeated, I am sure Kestrel.” Sert whispered as we exited the open area.

“And not truly a surprise.” Meli replied in a whisper of her own.

“A sudden massive trading overture from Atlantis could be viewed as an attempt to buy the world away from the other races.” I warned them. I heard them grumbled behind me as we walked. “If done slowly and cautiously, this could have Atlantis being seen as a centre of trade and culture for the rest of the world.” I told them with a smile. We continued walking to reach the next static portalling station.

“What did Her Holiness want?” Meli asked suddenly. I stopped and turned to face her before answering.

“She was giving me her blessing to my suggestion they become privateers using their contact upon the satellite to hide their actions from the Council.” I said directly. “If caught, every minor noble and satellite would be scrutinized while those three were put to death for their transgression.” I added quickly. I could not take the chance of her question why I did not make this offer to the trio of Franken. I held back revealing the second half of her message. I did not wish Meli and Sert thinking that Annianka wished to move against the Council with me at her side.

As the days and meetings stretched out, I learned more about the gripes the minor nobles held against the Council and their rules keeping the nobles hands tied while not seated on the Council. These nobles had no say anymore in the running of Atlantis even if most of them had good viable ideas to benefit Atlantis as a nation. They felt on the whole that they had been forced out of central Atlantis by the Council because they refused to take the offered seat.

After verifying with my companions, I was also aware of the level of fear most of the minor nobles lived under. All of them had guards and their numbers did not come from rank but from the level of fear the noble had. They still feared that they and their family would be assassinated in their beds like so many had been during the blood bath of the Usurper Queen and aftermath of her demise. The rate of orphans had tripled on Atlantis at that dark time period and remained that high until the lesser nobles finally escaped to the satellites.

Meli and Sert were orphans which could suggest they were of minor royal blood like some of these nobles we meet. I decide to read the medical and genetic volumes to discover if my companions could be lost minor nobles waiting to be discovered. More sign of the infection that was let loose on Atlantis when the Usurper Queen touched the Heartstone of Atlantis. Treachery had become a daily event on that day now hidden in shadows and by the Council seeing it as needed to safeguard their Atlantis.

“If the true Queen of Atlantis would return, she would be killed on the spot by the Council and their unholy guards.” the last noble we spoke with stated. “But she has been gone for so long that she must already be long dead.” he added. I felt the utter despair that washed over the four nobles present. They had believed in the rightful ruler's return all their life and now were losing hope. I felt Annianka crying behind the barrier I had placed in my mind as she saw this lost of faith among her people.

“Do not lose hope.” I told them. The four looked up at me as I allow Annianka to fully see and hear my words and thoughts at this moment. “The royal line will return to Atlantis sooner than you could ever imagine.” I continued slowly. I and Annianka saw the light of hope fill their eyes at my words. A soft giggle echoed sadly in my mind. “I am not allowed to see or reveal the exact time of this event but it will happen.” I added with convictions.

“He has the gift of seeing future events.” Meli explained to the nobles.

“And Her Holiness Annianka believes in his sight.” Sert added quietly. The nobles nearly cheered us as we parted. Meli and Sert stopped me before entering the portalling station.

“That was a ludicrous comment to make!” Meli chided me.

“No Atlantian can live a thousand years without being very old and feeble.” Sert commented. “And old woman would serve as nothing more than a puppet for the Council.” he added frustrated.

“And if I told you she is already back on Atlantis?” I returned with a snide smile at them. “She called to have one sent to remove the sickness here and I answer her call.” I lied to them angrily. “She will eventually be crowned Queen of Atlantis but I cannot reveal more to either of you.” I added calmer. They stared at me for a moment wondering if I had lost my mind during our meeting with these nobles. I smile sheepishly at them while Annianka screamed in my mind to tell them the truth of her true status. I forced her back behind the protective wall I had erected for myself. I pointed toward the door of the station wordlessly.

“Can you have him portal us directly home?” Meli asked. “I believe we could all use the rest of being within our own walls.” she added. She moved with me to stand on the platform while Sert talked in whispers to the guard controlling this station. He was already smiling before Sert was done talking with him. He activated the portal while Sert rushed to join us as we stepped through. We stood in the space before our door as we exited.

Cole stood looking sour faced at us in the foyer as we entered. He had worn that look during the entire week we had been dealing with the nobles' invitations. We followed him sheepishly back to the dining room eating the badly made meal slowly as he watched and waited for information on how our trip had went. We remained silent until the meal was done before claiming to be tired and returning to our rooms. Sert took to watching Cole's door that evening to signal us once the man had gone to bed. A nearly imperceptible knock at my door told me that Cole had retired for the night.

“Meli is already readying the tea for us.” Sert whispered. I smiled as both of us sneaked down the back stairwell to join Meli in the kitchen.

“I will get the meat and cheese sliced if you can collect a few fruits into a basket for us.” I suggested to Sert in a whisper. We moved quickly with our light fare to the inner garden to speak in whispers about what we had seen that day and during this long week. All three of us agreed that the fear and lost of power had the nobles seeking for any mean they could to help Atlantis while protecting themselves.

“Cole would be enraged that we are backing the nobles' plans.” Meli whispered.

“Colêsträ will learn to live with it when he realizes just how much Atlantis can gain from these trades.” I returned. “I must still discover a way of broaching the subject with the Council without appearing to be set to force their hand over this.” I added in a grumble.

“Why bother hiding that fact.” Sert returned. “I am certain Her Holiness would back your position.” he added. A minor shudder ran through my body and mind as I reheard the soft dark giggle in my mind. I had a fear inside me that I recognized that laughter from a previous time now locked away in my mind.

“This must be done for Atlantis without me applying direct force or my position here will be no long of help.” I explained slowly. “I would be seen as a self-proclaimed ruler and no better than the Usurper Queen.” I added pointedly. They feel silent at that moment and we retired in earnest for the rest of that night.

The Usurper Queen (10)

I awoke late the next day and found the silence in the home odd. I peered out the front window to see an arriving messenger nearly colliding with one that was departing my home. I dressed quickly to head down to discover the meaning of this near collision at my door. I found Sert running back toward the doors while Meli and Cole rushed into the reception hall. I followed Meli into the room but paused at the door seeing the stack of messages that had arrived.

“What is the meaning of this?” I growled. Meli turned to look at me with a pained look that I could feel coming from her. Cole gave him a quick glance before returning to the pile of letters.

“Invitations Sir.” Meli interjected. “Most of the minor nobles wish a chance to meet with you personally.” she added wringing her hands together.

“Start making an itinerary with notes on each.” I told her. “I am here for all of Atlantis not just those in power Mekiliean.” I stated with a smile.

“Most live on the outskirts of Atlantis or the satellite islands.” Cole remarked. I peeked at his mind to find the arrogance he felt for these beings. “None of them willing to even help run this place.” he muttered under his breath.

“Would you rather one of them take the throne?” Meli retorted. I did not need my gifts to feel the anger that raced through her. “Maybe the Royal Guards would be less inclined to spare their lives this time.” she added.

“Maybe this is the perfect time for me to learn of the Usurper Queen directly from Atlantians.” I commented. I took a seat at the table looking from one to the other. Neither meet my eyes as they looked through the letters placing them in neat order before them. “Or would you rather explain why the nobles seem scattered in cluster as far away from central Atlantis?” he continued. I could see in their minds that they did not wish to speak of the events that formed this separation of the nobles.

“They thought it best to be away from where the Council seats.” Cole admitted grudgingly. “But it had been a really bad time for everyone to live through.” he added softly. I suddenly felt a need that formed in this man my other two companions saw as a snake in our midst.

“How the Royals of Atlantis were being attacked by mysterious strangers after the Usurper Queen was executed by her own cursed Royal Guards.” Meli returned. An edge was in her voice. I knew anything Cole told me would be corrected by Meli as she believed a different tale of the dark events that transpired. I knew the story from books I had acquired but hearing what the Atlantian themselves thought would be refreshing.

“It does not help to understand when starting a story in the middle.” I stated calmly. Both finally looked at me as I sat between them at the table looking at one of the invitations. “And knowing what each of you believes as truth helps me see the hidden reality behind the tales like in rumours.” I added. I glanced quickly at Meli who nodded to me.

“The story is simple before her fall.” Cole stated bluntly. “She claimed the throne even if a princess did exist but with the deaths of King, Queen, and the former Royals in power it was believed she had died.” he commented slowly. “But the throne was not enough for her as she also took the role of Heart of Atlantis by force from His Holiness at the time.”

“She slaughter him in the Heart chamber before that great crystal that powers all of Atlantis.” Meli interjected. “Or so the rumours claim.” she added quickly.

“Tales state that she had to fight with the crystal before it allowed her to finally touch it.” Cole continued casually. “Once her hand touched the stone she glowed like an unholy candle burning black.” he said softly. “Then she ordered the foreigners gathered and executed as enemies of Atlantis.”

“And all the Guards gather together to collect and slaughter them to the last man.” Sert stated from the door. “It was also the last time both Council and Royal Guards acted as one group.” he added. A sad derisive chuckle escaped Cole.

“She turned Her Guards against the Council's Guards in what could only be described as a blood bath because she called the Council as traitors to Atlantis.” Cole replied. He stared at Sert with something akin to sadness in his eyes. “Meanwhile more and more of the higher seated Royals turned up assassinated within central Atlantis.” he continued.

“The lower nobles decided to try escaping but the did not get the chance as the Royal Guards received the order to murder the Council members.” Meli said softly. “Their honour had them stop seeing the fear and innocence in the members' eyes.” she explained. “They pulled back and the remaining Council Guard had locked up the roads out of central Atlantis.”

“The Usurper Queen did not take it well when Her four Captain told her they would not follow her orders.” Cole returned quietly. “I do feel pity for what happened to them because they acted with nobility and honour.” he added.

“All of Atlantis morn the curse placed upon their shoulders that day.” Sert commented bluntly.

“That is when they became half beasts.” Meli stated. “Some more beastly in form than others but all had animals come out and upon them.” she explained. “A beastly rage took them and the four Captains slaughtered the Usurper Queen on her own throne.”

“The Council moved to take control of Atlantis trying to protect its citizens but the remaining nobles disagreed.” Sert told them from the door.

“And more murders of Royals remained the last few that could have taken the throne of Atlantis.” Cole returned without emotions. “Many believe the Council was behind the deaths but I cannot believe it was just the Council's doing.” he continued quickly. A derisive snort came from both Sert and Meli at his words. “Too many died all at once all over central Atlantis for it to be the work of just one group.” he added. I felt the frustration pulsing through Cole at defending the Council alone.

“Next thing the Atlantian people knew, the minor nobles were vacating the central parts of the island if not leaving for the satellites of our nation.” Meli stated with a shrug.

“They had been offered seats upon the Council to mend the rift between them.” Cole retorted. “They refused and selected leaving everything on the shoulders of the Council.” he continued. I felt the anger he held in check against the nobles of Atlantis. “The Council survived the crushing responsibility but became a villain in the eyes of the populace while protecting the best interests of Atlantis.”

“Consolidating their power and control over Atlantis as completely as possible.” Meli remarked angrily.

“Until about five decades ago when Annianka appeared out of nowhere and took the position of Heart of Atlantis.” Sert whispered softly. “The story states her walking into the crystal chamber unopposed and gently brushing her hand against the crystal.” he continued.

“The chamber glowed the purest white anyone had ever seen before she exited the chamber.” Meli reported. “The Royal Guard Captains dropped to their knees before her swear to protect Her Holiness.” she continued. “She fought with words of wisdom to have the Council bow to Her will as Heart of Atlantis making it a religious title.” she concluded.

“Her Holiness Annianka, Heart of Atlantis gave all the people hope once more to return Atlantis to its glory seat of honour and nobility.” I said calmly. I did not comment on the fact that 'Hope' was the name I had given to this shard of the last Light of Life that existed. I had at the very least found a clue at the source of corruption here and abroad. The Heart of Atlantis had showed a dark face with the Usurper Queen while one of light with Annianka. The curse placed upon the Royal Guards was a genetic trait sitting in their genes from the start but none of them would accept it yet.

Another thought interfered in my mind as I realized that Annianka was the lost Atlantian princess that was supposed to be upon the throne. Her special origins made it easy for her to survive in her Atlantian form for centuries beyond other Atlantians. She was over a thousand years old but looked no more than her mid two hundred years. If discovered, I could not be sure what effect it would have upon Atlantis. A civil war as bloody as the Usurper's short reign of murder and destruction was the most minor path I saw occurring.

I ignored the less toxic comments now being made between the trio around me as my thoughts slipped deeper into my past. I stood with my true mother, Universe, as the last of the Ley'ä'Luna tried to step into the pillar of light to join the rest of her race. Her actions would have snuffed the Light of Life stopping any of the races seeded in Universe to be born including the last race, the humans. Before she could enter the pillar with the other, a great force took her from existence. My mother with one hand on her stomach bearing my unborn sister turned to look at me sadly.

“Your sister will be very angry with you having done this little Genin.” she whispered to me.

“I have not done it yet mother but it was the right action.” I answered. I remember the tears welling up in my eyes before I rushed away unable to understand my future action. I walked half blinded by tears until I was near the corner of the temple. I looked up with bleary vision to suddenly understand the writing upon the outer walls. I spent days reading all the story of what the Ley'ä'Luna had planed for all the races until the Fallen Ones, the humans, came into existence. I now understood what the one word all could understand truly meant. I walked into the temple and knelt before the pillar of light swearing I would protect them from the others who would prey on them.

It took Sert three attempts to draw me back from that moment. He held out a list of the nobles to me arranged in time and days we could possibly visit them. A short list of comments was scrolled down beside each name. I stared at the list in silence making my companions glance at each other in confusion.