Dawn

[Snoofman]

Author's note: the musical score of 'Dead Before the Dawn' from Game of Thrones Season 8 inspired the final scenes of this chapter. Read, listen, and perhaps you will understand what I mean.

Also, due to the critique I have received, and some hindsight, this chapter was changed, along with some later scenes to maintain plot consistency. Hope you enjoy!

-

Dawn - part 9.0

-

Ashrain smiled. Truly, genuinely smiled. Not a big, cheeky smile. Not an affiliative smile. Nor a dominant smile. Not even a smile that follows being rewarded.

It was just a smile.

A smile that came from a good feeling that seemed to pass through the hospital and found its way to the nearby Inn where Ashrain had been resting with Weaver, Icespear and her two Soroins. Some people were so overwhelmed by this blissful laughter that they collapsed. While everyone seemed to recover, the positive effects it had were still visible. Loroi walking through the corridors with a genuine grin. The last time she felt so good was when she was studying at the Torrai Academy to become a fleet commander and would join her friends and part-time nemeses at a tea house. Including Moonglow. They would laugh with each other, discuss, argue, tease and laugh some more. But this laughter, this joy, was something different. Where did it come from?

Buzz! Buzz!

The commlink in Ashrain’s wristguard broke her chain of thought as she tapped it. Her holographic display revealed a message from Greywind.

Grey: Ashrain. Received word about an incident at the Greensea Hospital. Everything alright?

Ash: Yes. But how did you know?

Grey: Received message from Livewire.

That was strange. Greywind sent one of Ashrain’s nieces to their location without first informing her.

Ash: Livewire is here?

Grey: Yes.

Ash: You think I can’t handle this task on my own?

Grey: Careful, my brave venturer. I am your grandaunt, but I am still your Emperor.

Ash: Apologies.

Grey: Just tell me what happened.

Ash: A wave of hysteria swept over the Loroi residing here.

Grey: Injuries?

Ash: None at all. The hysteria incited laughter. Bliss even.

Grey: Where did it originate?

Ash: Don't know.

Grey: Where is Mizol Twoface and the baby?

Ash: Resting I assume. But she refuses to leave our special guest’s side.

Grey: I see.

A pause.

Grey: Has the child recovered?

Ash: Yes. Doranzers will approve her release tomorrow.

Grey: No need to wait. She should be transferred now. Livewire and her team will escort you.

Ash: Understood Aunt. See you at the Complex.

Grey: No. Change of plans. You will be escorted to the Island.

Ashrain’s smile slowly disappeared along with her joyful mood.

Ash: The Island? You are serious? Aren’t you going to give our special guest back to the humanity envoys?

Grey: Humanity envoys are not aware of her presence on Deinar. I prefer to keep it that way. Besides, the child is in our territory and belongs to me.

Ash: This seems irregular.

Grey: I have already made arrangements. Follow your orders.

Ash: Understood.

Grey: I look forward to seeing you again my brave venturer. See you at the Island.

This seemed irregular, but in the end it wasn't Ashrain's place to question Greywind. She opened her cubicle-bed’s glass-door and stepped out. She sent to her comrades, “Listel Weaver! Teidar Icespear! Soroins! Wake up!”

The glass door on the cubicle that Weaver and Icespear shared switched from opaque to transparent. The two were already clipping their armor onto their jumpsuits and stepped out within moments.

The glass to the Soroins’ cubicle was still opaque. Ashrain pounded on their cubicle and verbally commanded, “Up and out!”

The opaque door slid open as the Soroins stumbled out. One with her armor barely clipped on and the other with her jumpsuit not even zipped up. Both blushed guiltily. It seemed pretty obvious what they had been doing inside their cubicle.

“Next time I say, ‘up and out,’ I expect you to be fully dressed and at quick for action,” said Ashrain.

“Yes, Commodore,” the Soroins replied, their blushes intensifying.

Ashrain motioned for them to follow. Icespear could not help but snicker. It was not uncommon for girls to be late after a long night of ‘fun.’ The four exited the Inn and back into the corridors of the hospital.

Weaver and Icespear became more alert as three new presences entered their range of sanzai. Within moments, three Mizol Operatives dressed in black armor approached them.

“Hello, Torrai Mazeit Ashrain,” one of the Mizols said politely. She had brown irises with cerulean hair fashioned upward like electrified spikes and a narrow face with a slightly pointed chin. She was younger than Ashrain.

“Greetings, Mizol Lennai Livewire,” Ashrain sent back. “Thank you for coming to assist us.”

“Pardon me, Torrai,” Weaver interrupted. “But do you know each other?”

“Livewire is my niece,” Ashrain said matter of factly. “She has been sent to provide us escort.”

“Now?” Weaver said surprised. “But the don’t the Doranzers have to approve-"

“We have already given our ‘urgent release order’ to the Doranzers, Listel,” Live cut her off abruptly.

“Under whose orders?!” Icespear challenged, taking a heavy step forward.

Although slightly shorter, the confident Mizol Livewire took her own step toward Icespear. “By command of our Emperor, Teidar,” she verbally replied cooly as she gave Icespear a mild telekinetic push. Clearly was not bashful about asserting her dominance. “And you’d best remember who your superiors are.”

The psychokinetic shove surprised even Icespear. Mizols were not typically strong with telekinesis, but this one had a considerable amount of force in her.

Although they met only a few occasions, Ashrain knew her younger grand-niece well enough. A young, cocky and ambitious Loroi unfazed by most peoples’ opinions. While Loroi were not typically ashamed to admit that they deserved to be the ruling race of the Union, Livewire was belligerent even by loroi standards. Formerly trained at the Teidar Academy, Livewire was especially gifted at electrokinesis and telepathic attacks. She was also known for her use of unconventional mental tactics to undermine and cripple opponents. Essentially she shocked them from within. She was also skilled at psychological warfare, using her victims' pain, fear and insecurities against them. There had been several incidents at the Teidar Academy when Livewire used these skills on her sparring partners. While the Elders wanted to expel her, the Emperor merely transferred her to the Mizol School of Perrein where her skills could be put to good use. And disciplined her with a firm warning if she stepped out of bounds. Ashrain and Livewire were not particularly fond of each other. However, Livewire was committed to the family clan. Surprisingly she had never failed an assignment. Ashrain would respect her for it were it not for the unsavory rumors of her brutality.

“Now,” Livewire addressed the group. “May we proceed?”

“Follow me,” sent Ashrain.

As the group walked through the halls of the hospital, Weaver and Icespear gave each other uncertain looks. They avoided using sanzai for fear of exposing themselves, but they both knew that something did not feel right.

-

Twoface awoke to the sound of infantile gurgling and moaning. The baby was fidgeting on the bed. Twoface yawned and picked her up. The memory of her dream was clear as day. Did the two of them somehow connect? It seemed impossible, and yet-

The child surprised Twoface when she slowly opened her eyelids, revealing her green irises.

Amazing, thought Twoface. Beautiful. Perhaps it had not been just a dream after all.

Twoface's enamoured pondering was interrupted by a disturbance outside the room. The guard seemed to struggle against something before collapsing. Twoface barely had time to jump to her feet before a giant of a Loroi burst into the room followed by two strangers, all of them donning masks. Before Twoface could react, the assaulter pulled a device, spraying a substance directly into her airways. Twoface was unable to fight the sudden nausea, her head spinning with drowsiness. She fell into darkness.

"Quickly," the giant of the intruders sent. "Get the infant. I'll take the Mizol." She tapped her earpiece and spoke, "Brighteye, find us a way out."

Exiting through the main entrance was too risky. With the aid of their coder, Brighteye found them an inconspicuous route to avoid detection.

Upon discovering that Twoface and the human infant were missing, Ashrain and her company of warriors bombarded the hospital's security and Doranzers with questions, struggling to find out where the two could have gone.

-

Dawn - part 9.1

Twoface’s vision was blurry as she slowly came back to consciousness. She was lying on a cot in what seemed to be a small room, stripped of her armor and possessions. Clad only in her jumpsuit.

“Ah, you’re up,” a familiar presence sent to her.

Twoface turned toward the other side of the room and could not believe who was standing there.

“Luckystar?!”

Twoface’s big sister smiled. “It’s been a long time, Twoface,” Luckystar said with muscular arms crossed, leaning against a small desk. Her dark, long hair tied back into many braids. The right side of her skull grew no hair since it was covered with scarred tissue. Much of her right ear was missing with only shredded remains. Clearly she had suffered some injury, but surely Doranzers could have fixed that. Unless Luckystar no longer had access to Doranzers. Which could mean that she was no longer a Soroin.

Another Loroi was standing with her in the room. Even from the confines of the room, Twoface could sense dozens of other Loroi presences outside. Wherever she was, Twoface could guess who these people were.

“You’re gangers,” said Twoface as she sat up on the cot.

“Very observant, Sentinel,” the ganger said with hostility, taking a few threatening steps toward the Mizol.

Luckystar unfolded her muscular arms and, with a solid pat on the ganger’s shoulder, stopped her. “I’ll deal with her,” Luckystar sent to the ganger. “Leave us alone!”

“Enforcer Hail won’t like that,” the hanger pointed out, but was silenced with painful squeeze on her shoulder by the larger Loroi.

“Enforcer Hail can take it up with the boss,” Luckystar sent with a dead serious tone. “Now get out!” The ganger took the hint and left the room. Luckystar turned her attention back to Twoface and smiled. “I can’t believe I found you, little sister. It’s a small galaxy after all.”

“Luckystar,” Twoface sent incredulously. She should have been relieved and happy to see her sister again after all this time, but something about her was different. Her demeanor and personality had changed into something darker from its former self. It was enough to send chills down Twoface’s spine.

Luckystar took two sweetened misesa buns from her desk. Taking a huge bite out of one, she took a heavy step toward Twoface. “Here,” she sent as she handed the other bun to her smaller sister. “You must be hungry.” Twoface flinched away. “You’re not happy to see me?” Luckystar asked mildly stung.

Feeling a little hungry, Twoface meekly accepted the bun and ate. "How long have I been out?"

Luckystar smiled. “Nearly two days. Who would have thought that we’d actually meet again on Deinar?”

Amidst her chewing, Twoface looked up at her sister. “Luckystar,” she sent. “What are you doing here?”

“I should be asking you the same thing,” Luckystar replied as she took another hefty bite, wolfing down the bun. “Though I’m even more curious about what you’re doing with a human.” Luckystar took a few heavy steps toward the other side of the room and crouched down in front of the opened incubation pod where the baby slept. “Creepy, aren’t they? No presence. Completely concealed by a lotai. Though I have to admit it’s pretty cute.”

“Is she alright?” Twoface asked as she finished her bun.

Luckystar shrugged. “It seems fine,” she sent as she stood back up facing her sister. “Good thing that pod of yours had some milk. We’ve kept it fed.”

“Luckystar, what is going on?” Twoface inquired. “What are you doing with these gangers?”

“Easy,” warned Luckystar. “Some of the girls here think you’re a liability. If you’re not careful, they’ll do whatever it takes to cover our tracks. But I’m going to make sure that doesn’t happen. If you just follow my lead, you’ll be fine.”

Twoface could not believe what she was hearing. “Luckystar, what’s going on here? Why are you with gangers? How did you even end up in a place like this? I thought you were committed to the Soroins.”

“I was,” Luckystar sent back. “But I quit.”

That was a shocker for Twoface. There were plenty of Soroins that dropped out, but Twoface never in her life could imagine someone like Luckystar quiting. “Please, tell me what has happened!”

Luckystar sighed. “Fine, then. I’ll start from the beginning. After you left us for the Mizols, my squad and I continued our duty at Justa. The tozons went by. We stopped a few Nissek incursions on the border. Apparently the Hegemony is having a tangle of their own with the Ninnil."

"Ninnil?" Twoface had heard of the race, but never seen them. No one in the Union had. They were a newly discovered race hailing from the Super Bubble, anti-spinward side of the Local Bubble. According to the stories shared by more pacifist Nissek, the Hegemony and Ninnil were fighting over territory within the Ninnil gap, the only passable tethy linking the Local Bubble with the anti-spinward Super Bubble.

“I tried to contact you,” sent Twoface to her sister.

“I know,” sent Luckystar. “I refused to reply because I was still so angry. I admit I still hated you for leaving… but at the same time... I missed you. But I was still so mad... too occupied with duty to reach out. Things were going poorly for us at Justa. More resources had to be poured into the Umiak fronts, leaving us with so little to work with. I fought on, but the more I fought the more I realized how much we had sacrificed for the Union. And how little we got in return. Our own sisters, warriors and civilians alike, were being neglected on the other side of the Local Bubble. I watched many of my friends from our old diral die. My two daughters, who I barely had a chance to meet and invest time in, were deployed and lost at the Umiak fronts. Finally, I’d had enough. I threw in my armor and simply left. I didn’t care what the family had to say anymore or if they disowned me. Not that they say much to dropouts anyway.”

“And you never thought to contact me?!” Twoface said incredulously. “Is that why you never replied after all these years? I would have helped you, Luckystar.”

“Would you really have dishonored yourself with a dropout?” Luckystar asked.

“How does honor outweigh the well-being of family?” sent Twoface. “You taught me that.”

“If you really cared about family that much, why didn’t you stay-“ Luckystar stopped that train of thought and fought against her growing frustration. “It wasn’t your problem to bear. Anyway, after I left the Soroins, I found myself transported to Deinar to work for the Manual Labor Guild. They needed a work force at the Imperial Seat. It was tough work, but I had nowhere else to go. The work expected of us was brutal. Exhausting. Luckily I managed to meet some very unique people. Some gangers who specialized in obtaining exclusive goods.”

“You mean theft?” Twoface stated more than asked. “You mean you started stealing?”

“Give me a break, sister,” Luckystar replied in her defence. “Do you have any idea what a Guild barracks is like? It’s crowded, hot and stuffy. The tens of thousands of solons we had to work everyday with barely any rest. Do you see these facial scars?” She pointed to her face. “I got this after an explosion in a gas mine. I had to climb my way out while dragging injured Loroi with me. I wasn’t going to live the rest of my life like a beast of burden. Besides, the gangers didn’t always steal. We specialise also in selling goods that the Union brands illegal. People are willing to pay good money for what we provide. I saw that you had tried contacting me several times.” At this point, Luckystar’s eyes seemed to lighten. No longer intimidating. She knelt in front of her sister and caressed her cheek, running a thumb over her scar. Their link intensified as Luckystar’s feelings were laid bare for her sister. “I admit I've been angry with you for so long. But... I'd like to let go of old grudges. Even after years of not speaking with each other, you have no idea how much I missed you. But I couldn’t. I was on the run.”

Twoface did not know how to react to all this. On the one hand she was ashamed that Luckystar had resorted to a life of crime. But she had gone through some terrible ordeals and made bad decisions because she just wanted an escape from the cruel reality that she had been thrusted into. While leaving the warrior castes was shameful, Twoface had seen Loroi crushed by the burden of duty. All hope and faith in their Empire drained from their psyches. Could she blame her sister for just wanting to be free from it?

“You should have called me,” said Twoface, touching Luckystar’s hand on her cheek. “I could never abandon or disown you as a warrior or a civilian.”

“It doesn’t matter anymore,” Luckystar reassured her sister. “When I saw you there at the hospital, I couldn’t believe it. I recognised you instantly. If it’s any condolence, I never meant to knock you out at the hospital. But we were in a tough position. I couldn’t just leave you there. We ditched your armor and equipment so there was no chance the warriors could trace you.”

“So where are we now?” Twoface asked.

Luckystar removed her hand from Twoface’s cheek and stood to her full height. “On the outskirts of Adadis. We’re at an abandoned warehouse where we’ve been storing our goods. Soon we’ll be moving out, though. Always gotta’ stay on the move to avoid getting caught.”

Twoface rose to her feet, Luckystar helping her up, and went to pick up the baby. The little human moaned and squirmed as Twoface gently rocked her.

“You’ve gotten attached to that little thing, haven’t you?” Luckystar remarked with arms crossed.

“I cannot deny it,” admitted Twoface. “She is special. I can’t explain why or how, but she is.”

“I’m envious,” sent Luckystar.

Twoface faced her sister. There was still so much about this situation that made no sense. “Luckystar, why did you attack us?” Twoface asked. “Were you after the baby?”

Luckystar nodded. “Yes.”

“But why? How did you even know that there was a human infant at Greensea?”

“Our gangs have contact with clients in so many sectors,” said Luckystar. “You’d be amazed how many hospitals need cheap medicine. And that is just one of the many goods we can provide. One of our contacts there alerted us.”

Arms tensed protectively as Twoface clutched the baby close to her chest. “Luckystar, what is going on here? Why did you abduct this baby?”

Luckystar sealed her eyes as her head dropped slightly. “Our boss… has some clients that are very interested in possessing a child.”

“Possessing a child?” asked Twoface. “A human child?”

Luckystar nodded as she met her sister’s suspicious gaze. “After the Great War ended, the Union has limited access to mating encounters. The chances of encountering a male and impregnation for civilians is even slimmer now. But ever since we Loroi discovered an alien species that resembles us, the Loroi have become enamored by these humans. And not just their menfolk. There’s a secret market right now with a demand for human children that happen to end up in Union territory. These clients are very wealthy and are willing to pay handsomely just to have a kid.”

The realization hit Twoface. These gangers intended to sell the baby. The Mizol took a step back as she held her charge protectively and sent in shock, “Trafficking! Trafficking humans! You’re trafficking sapients!”

Luckystar sighed and tried to assure her sister. “It’s not what you think-”

“What I think?!” Twoface blurted out. “You intend to sell this child like she were some animal!”

“It’s not what I want,” Luckystar tried to make her sister see it from her point of view. “It’s just business. Besides, it’s not like we’re selling her as a slave or to be Nissek meat. A wealthy Loroi is ready to pay hundreds of talents simply for the joy of motherhood. Think of what she’d pay just to hold a human child in her arms!”

The concept of loroi adopting humans was conceived by the civilian populace since the Union's first contact days with humanity. Twoface had heard of Guilds proposing the possibility of human orphans being adopted by Loroi civilians. As a substitute for having little-to-no chance to birth their own descendants. A controversial but intriguing idea to placate the civilian masses. And the Terrans were believed to have tens of millions of orphans to go around. The Elder Council, revolted by such a proposal and pressured by humanitarian ambassadors, denied these requests. Although there were rumors that a few Council Members were being bribed by wealthy Loroi to make legal exceptions. Technically Union law did not forbid for Loroi warriors to adopt alien children in the event that said aliens had no means to reach their own race. It was neither common practice nor encouraged for Loroi to adopt aliens since doing so would be much too cumbersome. And it was less likely for aliens and their offspring to be cut off from other members of their respective races. But on a few occasions in Union history, it had been done in the interest of fostering peace.

“Luckystar,” Twoface pleaded as she clutched her charge close. “You can’t do this!”

Luckystar sighed. “This isn’t my choice-“

“We all have a choice no matter our dhalid,” Twoface urged her sister. “Giving up an innocent life for profit is wrong!”

“Even if I didn’t want to,” Luckystar sent back, “there’s nothing you or I can do about it. It’s been arranged. Tomorrow, our gang is moving out. And I’ll be taking the human to the boss.”

“And who’s this boss of yours?”

Luckystar seemed nostalgic a moment. Whoever this boss was had obviously left a powerful impression on her. “Her spoken name is Eternal Endurance.”

The revelation struck Twoface like a bolt from the blue. Every Mizol in the intelligence community knew who Eternal Endurance was. A notorious and influential ganger with a powerful criminal network throughout the many sectors of the Union.

“Eternal Endurance?!” Twoface gasped. “Luckystar, do you have any idea who you answer to? She is a monster!”

“More monster than our current Emperor?” said Luckystar. “Endurance is a visionary. She’s not just in the business of making money. She’s a philanthropist who has helped so many Loroi.”

“She’s also a murderer!” Twoface tried to reason with Luckystar. “A thief! And an abductor! She has killed thousands of people!”

“Only people that tried to destroy what she is trying to make for the Loroi,” Luckystar defended. “Loroi who don’t have a voice.”

The Mizol could not believe she was hearing this. Tears threatened to break at the corner of her eyes. “What’s happened to you, Luckystar? This isn’t who you are! The sister I knew would never have bent her knee to murderous thugs.”

That earned Twoface a slap as Luckystar smacked her across the face. “That’s for the insult! This discussion is over. Our Enforcer Hail wants to kill you to cover our tracks. I’m the only thing stopping her right now. Now you stay put and do nothing. I can convince Eternal Endurance to admit you into our clan. But only if we play it smart. If you try to leave or do anything suspicious, I won’t be able to protect you. Stay here!”

With that said and done, Luckystar left the room, locking the door behind her. Twoface was lost and hopeless as she collapsed back on the cot with the baby in her arms. The baby started to cry. While she seemed not to realize what was about to happen to her, she cried as if she did.

“What do I do?” Twoface panicked, desperate to find a way out of their situation. “What do I do? I’m about to lose the baby to criminals! How do we get out of this?!” Hopeless tears leaked from her eyes as she held the little girl close to her heart, staring helplessly into her green eyes. “I’m sorry,” Twoface whimpered. “I’m so sorry! I failed you!”

The sounds of tinkling and water droplets against steel and glass sounded off as rain pelted the roofing of the warehouse.

-

Dawn - part 9.2

“Approaching target area,” the shuttle’s Tenoin sent back to her comrades.

After Livewire and Ashrain reported back to Greywind that gangers had kidnapped the baby, the Emperor was quick to deploy them and a few of her most trusted operatives into action. The hover van used by the gangers was an unregistered vehicle that managed to slip by checkpoints. The Operatives calculated every possible destination and their best guess lied with an area of abandoned warehouses just outside Adadis, where reports of criminal activity were quite frequent. Silent drones had been deployed to scan the area and, within moments, picked up thermal signatures within one of the warehouses. Including a small heat source just a bit hotter than the Loroi. As hot as a small human. While gangers covered their tracks well and were always on the move to avoid capture, it was often a safe bet that they nested at abandoned and least travelled locations.

“Remember, Loroi,” Ashrain sent to her comrades in the shuttle. “Use firearms only when necessary. Be precise with your hits. We cannot risk injuring Twoface or the infant.” She had insisted on overseeing this operation. Commanding a strike team of troopers was not her expertise, but due to their circumstances, she accepted the role with Greywind’s approval. They were not going to lose the human or Twoface.

“I could not agree more,” answered Livewire as she clipped on her black combat helmet. “Besides, fighting close quarters only makes it more interesting.”

“Hey,” Icespear called Livewire out. She might have been a superior officer, but Icespear placed the well-being of her comrades over seniority. “We’re not here to indulge in your bloodlust. We are here to rescue Twoface and the infant.”

“Mind your attitude, Teidar Icespear,” Livewire emphasized Icespear’s inferior rank. “You think I intend to deliver a dead human to our Emperor?”

“Enough!” Ashrain silenced them.“Livewire, you and your Operatives will provide cover for Icespear as she recovers Twoface and the baby. Once recovered, escort them safely to the extraction point. Soroins have already surrounded the target area, but must stay outside of sanzai range of the gangers. As soon as you have entered the warehouse, the Soroins will be deployed to distract the gangers. Avoid lethal force for the baby’s safety as well as Twoface’s, but deal with the gangers appropriately.”

“Understood,” the Loroi replied.

“Once I’m inside, I should be able to detect Twoface’s presence,” Icespear said as she slipped on her combat helmet. She had been equipped with combat armor. As a Teidar, she needed no firearm.

“One-thousand meters over target area,” the Tenoin sent to her comrades. “They don’t seem to know we’re here.”

The shuttle had some stealth features, including soundproofing to conceal it presence. And the rainstorm outside made their approach easier.

Livewire opened the shuttle doors. It was dark and raining outside, which gave them a tactical advantage as long as it didn’t get windy.

“Loroi, secure maneuver gear,” Livewire instructed. Live wire, her two operatives and Icespear checked the packs attached to the backs of their armor.

“Secure!” The Loroi responded.

“Deploy on my mark,” Ashrain instructed as the four Loroi readied themselves, staring out into the rainy night.

Ashrain transmitted a command to the Soroins on the ground. “Troopers, are flashbang canisters in place?”

“Affirmative,” came a radio response. “The drones are hovering just above the roof and ready drop the canisters on your command.”

“Fire canisters in ten solons,” Ashrain commanded. “Livewire, jump now!”

The three Sentinels and Unsheathed leaped from the shuttle. As they descended through the darkness and rain, they fired the thrusters of their maneuver gear to steer and slow their descent. It was no jetpack, but more reliable and maneuverable than a parachute.

-

Within the warehouse, the gangers had nearly packed up their crates and loaded into transports. They were soon ready to move out. Luckystar was arguing with Enforcer Hail over Twoface.

“Keeping that damn Mizol around is a bad idea,” said Enforcer Hail.

“No one touches her or the human unless the boss says otherwise,” Luckystar stood her ground.

“Don’t think that just because you’re a favorite of the boss that that gives you-”

The Enforcer never got to finish that thought as something crashed through the glass roof and several small objects fell to the floor within the warehouse.

Flash! Bang!

Before anyone could react and inspect what it was, a flashbang stunned the gangers and the warehouse was flooded with smoke.

“We’re under attack!” Luckystar shouted out to the gangers. Amidst the chaos and confusion, four new presences entered from above, releasing a hissing propulsion as they eased their descent.

Without thinking, Luckystar bolted for the room where Twoface and the baby were. She had to get her sister out of here. The gangers had been found out.

-

There was smoke everywhere. But Icespear and the Operatives could see thanks to the thermal sensors installed in their helmets. There were numerous gangers all around them trying to find their way through the smoke. The Operatives, circling around Icespear, tapped their wrists and their ballistic shields unfolded.

A series of bangs from the other side of the warehouse drew the gangers attention as the Soroins moved in. Controlled bursts sounded off as gangers dropped, either immobilized or eliminated. Other gangers took cover and fired back with pistols. The Soroins stood their ground. Their purpose was merely to draw the gangers’ attention away from Icespear and the Operatives.

Livewire commanded as she stood behind her shield, “Icespear, find Twoface!”

“I’m working on it,” Icespear sent back. Amidst the smoke, shouts and shots, Icespear searched the area like a radar. There were many presences all around, but she found the distinct signature that was her friend. But it was accompanied by another presence near Twoface. And it was moving Twoface away from the action.

“I found Twoface, but I think someone has her hostage,” said Icespear. “That must be where they have the infant. We must pursue!”

Livewire nodded. “Lead the way, Teidar!” She turned to her two Operatives. “Cover our rear!”

The four moved toward Twoface’s position away from the action between the Soroins and the gangers. They cleared the smoky area and entered another section with more crates and suspended walkways hanging above them. A few more presences alerted Icespear’s psyche as five gangers ran across the upper walkways and took aim at the four below.

“Attack from above,” Icespear warned.

“I see them,” confirmed Livewire. “Cover! Now!”

Bang! Bang! Bang!

The gangers overhead fired down on the warriors below. Icespear and the Operatives crouched for protection behind the crates.

“Icespear, keep up the pursuit!” Livewire ordered. “We’ll give you cover fire and deal with these ones! Take my shield!”

Icespear nodded and accepted the ballistic shield from Livewire.

Livewire relayed her attack pattern to her subordinates who moved out with their ballistic shields held up and drew pistols. The gangers fired on them, but their shots could not penetrate the shields. Icespear dashed holding her shield overhead in pursuit of Twoface. While the Operatives were safe behind their shields, the gangers were hailing them with shots. They could not return fire.

While the gangers were distracted, Livewire extracted a foldable, remote drone that fit perfectly in the palm of her hand, activated it and threw it up in the air. The tiny drone unfolded and ascended upward toward the ceiling. Livewire tapped the side of her helmet bringing up her HUD. Unable to look directly without getting shot, she drew out a mirror and used the reflection to find the gangers on the walkways. She found one firing a pistol.

Her helmet was equipped with a voice activated smart program that could connect with and control remote devices. She uttered, “HUD, connect to drone! Activate facial recognition program!”

Her HUD formed a red square target marker and locked onto the ganger’s face. The red square turned blue. Target locked! “Drone, execute!”

The tiny drone was equipped with a smart camera and found its target through the data transmitted by Livewire’s HUD and flew downward toward its intended target. It flipped ninety degrees and, as it made contact with the ganger’s frontal lobe, detonated the small package of explosive compound it carried. While the explosion was nothing more than a meager pop, the small blast from the compound was still strong enough to burn a hole through one’s skull. The ganger fell dead.

A wicked grin formed on Livewire’s face. She loved these little toys. Finding her next target, she threw another drone into the air.

-

Twoface heaved as she struggled to keep up with Luckystar. After hearing an explosion from the room she and the baby were being held in, Luckystar bolted in and told them they had to run. Without thinking or knowing what was happening, the two of them and the human fled through the labyrinth of crates.

Far from the warehouse, they came to a garage with an assortment of vans, cargo trucks and hover bikes. Twoface crouched down with the baby in her arms and took a breather.

“Put the baby down and help me,” Luckystar sent as she pushed one of the massive sliding doors open.

Twoface placed the baby on the ground, wrapped only in a blanket. She should have brought the incubation pod, but it was too much weight in the heat of the moment. She ran over to her sister and helped to open the sliding doors with her. Outside was pure darkness with downpour.

Twoface ran back to pick up the child while Luckystar climbed into a hover van and activated the remote guidance system. She climbed out and the van automatically drove itself out to a predetermined destination. She did the same to several more vans and cargo trucks, leaving only a few vans and the hover bikes alone. The vehicles would distract the warriors long enough for Luckystar and Twoface to slip past them.

“Come on, get in!” she ushered her sister to one of the remaining vans and whipped the van’s door open. “I know how the Soroins set up around a target area. We can sneak past them.”

“You go,” Twoface said sadly as she held the baby. “I can throw them off your trail.”

“What are you talking about?” Luckystar sent. “We found each other again after all this time. Forget those jarheads and come with me. With that baby, we can make it to Eternal Endurance. If we deliver the infant, Endurance will give us a huge cut. Think of the status we could gain with the gangers. Or we can just start over on our own. You and me.”

Twoface backed away as her sister tenderly reached for her, clutching the baby close. “I made a promise to an innocent woman that I’d protect this child,” she sent in defence. “Even if I could break that promise, I can’t give up this baby. Not for all the wealth of the empire.”

Luckystar’s affectionate eyes turned cold and steely. “You choose a little human over your own flesh and blood?”

“It’s you who doesn’t realise that I choose you both,” sent Twoface as tears formed at the corners of her eyes. “That’s why I’m telling you to go while you still can. If they catch you, they’ll throw in prison or worse.”

“Get in the damn van,” Luckystar ordered aggressively as she took a thundering step toward her sister.

Twoface backed away, her lips quivering with fright. “No.”

In a quick motion Luckystar pulled out a pistol. “Twoface, I have sacrificed and suffered too much to be abandoned by you a second time. Now it’s time for you to choose between that infant and me. If you don’t get in the van…”

Twoface refused. She could not believe her own sister would kill her. “Are you really going to shoot me?”

Luckystar aimed at Twoface’s head. “On the count of three.”

Twoface did not flinch even in her fear. “I don’t believe you.”

Luckystar’s finger rested on the trigger. “One!”

“As children you protected me because you love me. Just as I’ve always loved you. Now I and this innocent child need you to do the right thing.”

Luckystar’s finger squeezed harder on the trigger. “Two!”

“I know you, Luckystar. You can still get out of here. I know you don’t want to do this.”

For the briefest of moments, Luckystar’s lips quivered and her eyes watered as she glared at Twoface, her finger refusing to let up on the trigger. She practically whimpered out, “T-three!”

The shot never came as the pistol was shot out of Luckystar’s hand by a flying object. Before Luckystar could react a second, larger crate smashed into her frame, sending her crumbling to the ground.

Twoface whipped her head around to see Icespear rushing to her position. She had used her psychokinesis to hurl the objects at Luckystar.

“You alright?” Icespear asked her friend and superior.

Twoface nodded, turning back to her sister as Luckystar struggled to recover from the shock of the blow. Icespear forced her down with a telekinetic push. “Stay down, you thug!”

Even though she didn’t beg for help, Luckystar stared back at her sister with teary, pleading eyes.

Twoface was torn. “Not so hard, Icespear,” Twoface urged Icespear. “She’s my sister.”

The Unsheathed cocked an odd eye at Twoface. “You’re kidding,” she sent incredulously. “Your sister, here, kidnapped the human and was going to shoot you.”

“It’s a long story,” Twoface pleaded. “Just please… not so hard.”

With humph Icespear eased the pressure she telekinetically administered on the downed ganger.

Within moments, Livewire approached with her two operatives, having taken care of the remaining gangers. “Well done, Teidar Icespear,” Livewire said with smug contentment, turning her attention to Twoface. “Good to see that you and the… human, are unharmed, Miss Twoface. And don’t worry about the gangers. They’ve been taken care of.” She switched her predatory gaze to Luckystar still pinned down by Icespear’s telekinetic force. “All we have left is this one.”

Twoface’s eyes went wide with shock as Livewire pulled out a final drone. She knew those drones contained explosive compound. “Wait, you can’t!”

Livewire cocked an eyebrow at Twoface’s outburst. “Yes, I can,” she sent dismissively. “She’s a criminal.”

“She’s my sister,” Twoface pleaded. “She deserves a trial.”

“Her sentence is already decided,” said Livewire. Her HUD locked onto the pleading face of Luckystar and flung the drone into the air. Luckystar’s sealed shut tight as she fought against the tears. She knew what was about the to happen, but accepted her dhalid.

The drone unfolded, activated and flew-

Bang!

Icespear released a psychokinetic shot that blasted the drone in midair and used a second more powerful telekinetic shove that sent Livewire flying across the room. Before the other two operatives could react, Icespear forced them with her power across the garage as they were smashed into the open van. The Teidar sealed the door shut and, with all her telekinetic might, flipped the van three-quarters turn as it landed on the door and effectively trapped the Sentinels inside. That would hold them for the moment.

While she was still recovering from being blasted across the room, Livewire groaned as she tried to shake off her dizziness, but froze as Twoface stood over her with Luckystar’s pistol in her left hand and the baby clutched safely in her right arm.

Livewire glared menacingly at Twoface. “This is treason,” Livewire snarled loathingly.

“You will not hurt my sister,” Twoface said as she pointed the pistol at Livewire.

“You will pay for this, you scarred clayface!”

“A price I gladly pay for family,” said Twoface. She turned to Luckystar who was slowly climbing back to her feat. More Loroi presences entered their range of detection. The Soroins were approaching. “Luckystar, get on one those bikes and get out of here!”

The dropout turned ganger tried to send something back, but merely whimpered out, “Twoface… Sister…”

“Just go!” Twoface commanded Luckystar. “I don’t know when or how, but I’ll find you again. I promise. Go! Before it’s too late!”

The Soroins drew closer. Without anytime to convey her feelings for her beloved sister, Luckystar groaned with frustration as she ran for the hover bikes. She climbed onto one, fired up its engine as it roared. The bike lifted off the ground and, in a flash of motion, zoomed out of the garage and into the rainy night. Luckystar was gone.

While there was a risk Luckystar might get caught, Twoface believed that a former Soroin and hardass like her sister could manage herself. Within moments, the Soroins entered the garage, checking the vicinity to confirm it was secure and were confused as to why an Unsheathed sealed two Sentinels in a toppled van and why another Sentinel was holding a baby in one hand and holding another Mizol at gunpoint.

Taking a few steps back, Twoface simply dropped her weapon and brought her left hand under the baby. She had been so focused on the intensity of the moment that she did not notice the baby’s cries throughout the ordeal. All she could do was coo and comfort the gentle soul.

“Icespear, thank you,” Twoface sent to her friend and subordinate. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“Even brutal Unsheathed have dignity,” Icespear sent back.

Livewire commanded a Soroin to take the baby from Twoface and two others to seize Icespear. As the human was taken from a now docile Twoface and Icespear was wrestled to the ground, Livewire climbed to her feet and stopped just inches from Twoface.

“You are going to be so sorry,” Livewire sneered, “after I turn you and your treacherous accomplice into a hundred different kinds of messed up!”

The very angry Mizol gripped Twoface’s neck, sending an electrokinetic shock through Twoface’s nervous system, crippling her to her feet. And with one fluid motion, punched Twoface into unconsciousness.

-

Out in the dark storm, Luckystar had trouble seeing where she was going between the abandoned houses as she flew over the crumbling streets. The rain struck and stung her eyes, forcing her to keep her head low below the wind shield. She had a few close calls when a few troopers tried to cut her off, but she was a skilled driver as well as a fighter and slipped past them.

After barely escaping the warriors, Luckystar drove on into the night. Her hover bike allowed her to steer clear of the roads, since that's where the warriors would likely patrol, and cut across rough terrains. By morning, she had found herself in a mountainous forest many miles away. Exhausted and wet, Luckystar fell off her bike and finally let her tears fall.

She cried. Cried that Twoface had slipped from her grasp again after just finding her again. When she had spent her tears, Luckystar pulled herself together, climbed back on the bike and headed east for Nottinrer. Luckystar had some credits in her pocket that would last her long enough to rendezvous with the gang.

Eternal Endurance was not going to be happy that the gangers lost all their goods and the baby, but the boss always had a backup plan.

-

Greywind slowly awoke from a not so comfortable slumber. She rubbed her tired old eyes and gazed out of the port window of her personal shuttle. The world was dark outside. The Mestirot Ocean barely visible below. Even with the dim lights within the cabin of the shuttle, it was not easy to make out any stars outside.

These last few days had been very taxing. The pickup at the hospital four days ago went terribly wrong, but at least the human had been recovered from the gangers. A team of Intelligence Officers were already investigating the matter to find any other suspects that were connected to these criminals. Including the one ganger and former Fighter that apparently escaped from the warehouse.

On top of that, she had two traitors to deal with, Mizol Lennai Twoface and Teidar Icespear, the former guardians of the human. They had to be dealt with, but it could wait.

Now with the baby recovered and the peace conference finally concluded, the humanity envoys departed. None the wiser about this incident. Just as Greywind wanted. Not that the humans could do much even if they knew. The baby was legally hers now. With that order of business settled, the old Emperor was now on her way to the Island.

Although the negotiations seemed to end well, Greywind still had to deal with the Elder Council and the Union Assembly Members that backed them. They would no doubt throw every legal action against her ruling party. Even if the Terran Colonial Authority neutralized the raiders of the Wastelands, it seemed doubtful that the Council would cease its call for war. And this new Confederate Movement within the Terran Government, if it succeeded, would convert the Terran Colonial Authority into a military power. One that could rival even the Empire’s. Barely a decade ago Greywind was not so concerned. But the Terrans were expanding at an alarming rate thanks to their recent technological leaps.

It was funny.

The humans claimed to uphold freedom and democracy above all else. Proudly boasting that they were not ruthless conquerers as the Loroi. Ironic, thought Greywind. The humans, whether they realised it or not, were becoming exactly what the Loroi were. They expanded, extracted resources and secured planets strictly in their own best interests, just like the Loroi. If that was not hypocrisy, then what was?

Even if war was prevented now following the eradication of the raiders, the Terrans could match the Loroi within several generations. And if the members of their race continued to stoke the flames of xenophobia, it could put the Union in a dangerous position.

The truth was Greywind would have no problem going to war with the TCA. The problem was that Greywind knew that the Union had billions of young warriors that were itching to kill something since many of them missed their chance when the Umiak War was finished after twenty-five long years. If they were unleashed upon humanity, the carnage would reach catastrophic levels. The Loroi would undoubtedly win if they launched a campaign now to subjugate the humans. But realistically, the siege of humanity worlds might be no different than what the Loroi of Seren suffered under the Umiak occupation. Greywind could imagine rows upon rows of dead menfolk, womenfolk and children that would pile up within the first few weeks of conflict. The news and images of such siege and slaughter would spread through the Local Bubble like wildfire. The Union would be shaken to its very foundations. The Assembly would dissolve. The alien races would never trust the Loroi again. Because if the warriors were willing to kill even something that resembled Loroi, how much compassion did they really have for other races?

While the politicians of the Union Assembly approved the Elder Council’s call for war, many of the alien civilians from the religious and universalist orders spoke out against it. The Terrans did not seem to realize just how divided the Loroi and alien races really were (or simply did not care). Greywind could appease the Assembly with compromises, but she knew she was slowly running out of options.

Was Greywind doing the right thing to prevent war? Or merely making it worse by delaying inevitable conflict?

The old Emperor yawned silently. Best to let it go for now and seize an opportunity when it presented itself.

Through the port window, a dim light was shining over the horizon. The dawn was coming. Greywind ordered some sunflower tea to help stimulate her. Her attendant, a young Loroi with a tuff of short green hair called Link, returned with a steaming cup which she handed to the Emperor. As Greywind accepted the aromatic drink, there was a sound as if the attendant stepped on a cushion. But in fact, the young Loroi accidently stepped on Greywind’s long trail of grey and purple hair which pooled over her seat and into a coil on the floor.

Link’s purple eyes went wide as she realised her mistake, bowed and apologised. Greywind dismissed it with a wave of her hand and took a sip of tea. The attendant awkwardly strode away. While many Loroi excessively enjoyed noillir, Greywind preferred flowery tea. The old Loroi had sampled consumable flowers from almost every known civilization. One of the female human diplomats had even gifted the Emperor with a vase of exotic red flowers called roses before they departed. Roses apparently grew only on Earth. Greywind intended to plant them in the Garden of the Island. She was eager to cultivate more of the beautiful alien flowers. She simply could not get enough of them after she sampled a few rose petals in her tea yesterday. Delicious!

After a few thousand solons of flying, the shuttle arrived at the west islet of Ginazaigo. This was the Island. Originally a resort home belonging to a family of wealthy weapon manufacturers, the Island was confiscated by the Emperor as a compromise for the family’s war profiteering. In exchange Greywind allowed them to keep their other assets. On the west side of the Island was a sizeable mansion of circular buildings and towers built atop a cliffside overlooking the ocean. While much of the original mansion remained unchanged, there were a few additions made such as laboratories, a small armory, a training ground, a library, as well as underground facilities built into the cliffside below the mansion. There was even a detention area. And much more.

The shuttle touched ground on the mansion’s landing pad overlooking the ocean. Greywind left the shuttle, her cape of long hair trailing behind her. She relieved her attendant and guardians of their usual duties for the day. They left to rest and relax elsewhere. The Emperor passed through the massive doors of the main hall and made her way to an elevator which would take her to the subterranean laboratories. Upon exiting the lift, she passed through the laboratory corridors, and heard the sound of infantile crying. Greywind entered an examination room. A small team of Doranzers and Listels were examining the human infant. Extracting samples of skin particles, tiny hairs, saliva, even urine and fecal matter. They had recorded the child’s other biological readings for archiving. One Doranzer extracted a sample of blood into a tiny chip-shaped vile no bigger than a finger nail and stored it, but healed the tiny puncture with medicine.

The human child seemed to be in good health and was lucky not to suffer any serious injuries from the gangers.

The team of Loroi noticed their Emperor enter the room and showed proper reverence. Greywind was more interested in the human child and approached the examination table. The baby would not stop wailing. Greywind stroked the little baby’s head, admiring her tiny round ears, the light-brown skin and green irises. She was so warm to the touch. So small and helpless.

Delicately Greywind eased her aged fingers to support the baby’s head and body and lifted the frail human into her arms. The baby’s unrelenting cries were annoying, but Greywind did not care. She simply could not break her cerulean gaze at this precious thing in her arms. Turning heel, the Emperor left with the baby in her arms. One of the Listels made to protest since there were more tests and observations to be made, but was stopped by a colleague. The Emperor wanted to spend some time with the human. The scientists could collect more data later.

Greywind took the lift back up to the surface level and made her way to the Garden. Next to the Garden was a large social arena where a few Torrais and Mizols were gathered. Including Ashrain, Livewire and Grewyind’s other relatives and closest friends. Listel Weaver was also sitting with them. While it was early in the morning, they had no doubt been up all night enjoying festivities. They were seated on floor futons sampling drinks and foods. And smoking spice pipes much to Greywind’s disapproval. She would have a serious chat with them later.

The small party noticed their Emperor enter the Garden, stood and paid respect. Greywind acknowledged them but did not go over to join them. The party understood that, at moments like these, the Emperor wanted to be left alone and resumed their festivities. As the Loroi continued their telepathic chatter, Ashrain, looked one last time at Greywind before reengaging with her relatives and friends. Although Greywind never seemed to smile, she was content.

After the human had been successfully rescued from the gangers, Ashrain and her company made their way to the Island. The Loroi that merely assisted with the operation were sent back to their usual posts. These last few days had been nerve-wracking. Now she was simply happy to just sit back and enjoy a gentle high of spice. She tried to cheer up Listel Weaver, but she seemed to concerned about her compatriots, Twoface and Icespear, and so did not trouble her. While Ashrain would never admit it, she did think it bold and humorous for Icespear to give Livewire a psychokinetic punch. Livewire was kin, but Ashrain's niece deserved a beating.

Although Twoface and Icespear did in fact commit treason, she could not help but sympathize with them. She would be sure to have an exchange with her grandaunt and speak on the two Loroi's behalf.

Greywind moved toward stone steps at the edge of the Garden which descended down to a vast balcony overlooking the ocean. She sat down at the top of the steps to rest her old, aching muscles and gently rocked the child as she watched the horizon turn from dim blue to flaming orange as the dawn approached. The stars twinkled out one by one.

The old Emperor loved this island. It was a good place to help her forget about her troubles if only for a moment. While she did not own this island, as warriors were prohibited from owning property, she had the authority to use it as she saw fit.

The baby seemed to be growing tired from wailing and did not cry as intensely as before. Perhaps she was also feeling better to be held close by somebody. But her small cries drew the attention of a tiny Loroi barely three tozons old who was hiding in the garden bushes. She was Greywind’s great, great, great, granddaughter. One of many Loroi children residing at this Island. It seemed a few of the children were playing hide and seek and up to other mischief.

The Loroi child slowly approached, curious at the alien infant concealed by a lotai. Greywind allowed her great, great, great, granddaughter to approach and inspect the tiny human. Soon about a dozen other Loroi children of varying ages came out of hiding in the Garden and approached their Emperor to see what the commotion was about. They gathered around Greywind to behold and admire this new arrival as Deinar’s sun slowly rose in the distance. Not all the children of the Island were awake that morning, but would soon meet the baby.

[mwightman]

Now that was a serious read, good fight scene! But I do have a question . . "[quote Livewire faded back into the visible spectrum as the Mizol’s cloak deactivated.][/quote]" when did they develop cloaking or stealth technology?

[Snoofman]

Now that was a serious read, good fight scene! But I do have a question . . "[quote Livewire faded back into the visible spectrum as the Mizol’s cloak deactivated.]" when did they develop cloaking or stealth technology?

Thanks. The fight scene was especially challenging to write.

I actually don't know. In fact, I'm not sure if Arioch entertains the idea of cloaks or invisibility in the Outsider setting. But by my math and in this storyline, I'd say the tech might be a century or two old. And sophisticated since the Loroi are far ahead of the humans. Today humans have already developed tech and materials that can bend light. The challenge is just making them implementable in the military (if we humans in the real world have not already done it).

[Quickdraw101]

So I'm guessing the Emperor is looking to raise the child like one of her own, to get a better understanding of humanity?

[Snoofman]

So I'm guessing the Emperor is looking to raise the child like one of her own, to get a better understanding of humanity?

Don't want to spoil anything, but you will see!

[Krulle]

Now that was a serious read, good fight scene! But I do have a question . . "[quote Livewire faded back into the visible spectrum as the Mizol’s cloak deactivated.]" when did they develop cloaking or stealth technology?

Thanks. The fight scene was especially challenging to write.

I actually don't know. In fact, I'm not sure if Arioch entertains the idea of cloaks or invisibility in the Outsider setting. But by my math and in this storyline, I'd say the tech might be a century or two old. And sophisticated since the Loroi are far ahead of the humans. Today humans have already developed tech and materials that can bend light. The challenge is just making them implementable in the military (if we humans in the real world have not already done it).

The material is there, but it will work only from very few angles.
Seen from any other angle, the technology is actually giving away that there is something happing !!!!!!!HERE!!!!!!!.

And if you bend light around something, that something inside can also not look outside.
With training, you could use the eyes of your sister for this purpose....


And personally, nope, I did not like the fighting scene.
The telekinetic forces applied do not seem to work like they do in the Outsiderverse, but that seems to be my hunch only.

I also don't really understand the need for the extreme escalation that happened inside the hospital.

For a strict militaristic society, having agreed to follow a strict order and then turn seems weird.
I also did not understand why Livewire immediately attacked Twoface, without even trying to convey that this is an order coming from the Emperor.

Also, when you're collapsing under paralysing pain, you will not be able to hold a child, the child will fall from your hands before you collapse.
And here, Livewire caught Twoface, but nobody caught the child.

It just seems so.... forced, in this chapter.

But then, that's my personal impression.

[Snoofman]

Hey guys, I've been thinking that perhaps that last chapter was a bit much and a little farfetched. And perhaps exaggerated. So before I proceed with the next chapter, I want to ask your opinions. Should we keep rolling with this? Or should I go back and change it to something more believable? Appreciate your feedback.

Some parts I would prefer not to be changed for the sake of where this story is heading, like a good chunk of the scene featuring Greywind and the Island.

[Onaiom]

Twoface having a panic attack and not wanting to give the baby to Livewire is believable. I just don't get why the Emperor wants to raise the child.

[Snoofman]

Twoface having a panic attack and not wanting to give the baby to Livewire is believable. I just don't get why the Emperor wants to raise the child.

Patience. We'll get to that point eventually. But appreciate your feedback.

[Krulle]

The outcome of the chapter is fine.
Twoface panicking too.
I just don't get Icespear's reaction.

[Snoofman]

The outcome of the chapter is fine.
Twoface panicking too.
I just don't get Icespear's reaction.

While Loroi are trained to be militaristic and duty bound, that surely doesn't stop them from being reckless or making spontaneous decisions. Especially if they're young. Or thinking with their own minds. Icespear is a young and feisty Teidar. Inexperienced. Like many youngsters, she acts before she thinks. Her job was to watch over Twoface and the baby. In the heat of the moment, she chose to fulfil her task, even if it was an act of defiance.

Also remember, that the Teidar were needlessly brutal against the Mannadi. So who's to say that the Teidar aren't combustibly passionate and eager to unleash their power to a fault? Or difficult to control?

[Snoofman]

I have gone back and changed just a few things in 'part 9'. Livewire explains to Twoface that transporting the baby to a new location is a direct order from the Emperor. As well as Twoface contemplating if she can allow it or not. And how Livewire incapacitates Twoface outside the hospital.

I understand if the chapter may not vibe with everyone, but you can't win them all. It seems better just to keep rolling with the story as is.

[Krulle]

To your last line I can agree.
Just roll with it.

(and Livewire was also unnecessary aggressive with her treatment of Twoface, which is also a reaction I don't understand.
And which is rather un-Mizol like. Which I thought the Mizol trained out of her.

Anyway, these are your characters, have fun letting them do what they do!)

[Snoofman]

To your last line I can agree.
Just roll with it.

(and Livewire was also unnecessary aggressive with her treatment of Twoface, which is also a reaction I don't understand.
And which is rather un-Mizol like. Which I thought the Mizol trained out of her.

Anyway, these are your characters, have fun letting them do what they do!)

Yeah, plus it may help to improve characters for the future. Make them more believable.

[Snoofman]

Dawn - part 10

-

Twoface awoke in a room. A remarkably decorative room for a cell. Then again perhaps it wasn't. Outside her confinement she sensed two guards. One's aura a dim blue. The other blazing like a furnace, undoubtedly Unsheathed. Extending her range, Twoface picked up the trace of another Unsheathed. Her essence familiar.

"Icespear," Twoface sent.

Icespear confirmed, "I'm here. Still alive."

"Quiet," the Unsheathed guard outside ordered. "No exchanges until your release."

"Where are we?" Twoface asked. "What's going on? Is the baby alright?"

"I told you to be quiet! I will not repeat!"

Twoface did as she was told. More than anything she just wanted to know that the baby was well. But at this point there was nothing she could do. She and Icespear attacked fellow officers while protecting a fugitive. Twoface's sister. Just what had happened to her once righteous sister, Luckstar? It was a lot for even a disciplined Sentinel to take in. Her instinct was to cry, but Twoface sucked up the pain, reining in her emotions. She had to be strong for whatever was coming.

And come it did.

“Mizol Lennai Twoface,” one of the guards sent from outside. “Please standby. You have a visitor.” What visitor? The only people Twoface could sense were the guards outside. Who else was here?

Twoface’s eyes squinted as the light outside the opening door nearly blinded her. The silhouette of a small female entered the room. When Twoface’s eyes adjusted she expected to see a Loroi warrior approach.

Instead it was a short human wearing a blue tunic and skirt that covered her knees, exposing her lower legs, black shoes and a headpiece with a veil that covered the back of her neck. Her face had slanted eyes with dark irises, a wide nose and brown skin littered with wrinkles. A clear sign that this human was old. Upon her chest rested a cross with what appeared to be a human with its arms stretched across the horizontal line, its feet dangling at the base of the vertical line and its head resting on the top.

The short human offered a gentle smile and spoke, “Hello, Miss Twoface. My name is Sister Judith dela Cruz. I am pleased to meet you.”

Twoface was dumbstruck. No wonder she felt no presence. Like all the humans, this human had a lotai. What was a human doing in a Loroi detention block? Unable to process the sense of this, she just asked, “What do you want?”

The human answered, “To offer you a bath.”

Though speechlessly confused, Twoface followed this strange little human out of the room. Icespear was released from her room. The two detainees followed Judith along with their armed escort. They were led to a bathing chamber.

"I just need to fetch a few items," the little human said. "Please make yourselves comfortable and feel free to clean yourselves." She left.

The guards gave a firm warning to Twoface and Icespear, “Remember! Your movements and exchanges are monitored at all times. Misbehavior will not be tolerated.”

Icespear scoffed and sent to Twoface when they were finally alone, “Well, I’m glad you’re alright.”

Twoface just stayed silent as she slowly stripped down. She had nothing to say.

“I’m fine as well, in case you were wondering,” Icespear muttered as she ripped off her jumpsuit and plunged into the bath water. “I only took a beating on your behalf after helping your crook of a sister escape. No need to be concerned, but it would be appreciated.”

Without so much as a response, Twoface glumly dropped her jumpsuit and stepped into the bath.

Icespear sighed and sent to her comrade, “I’m just tired. And aggravated. Not at you, I swear. At least, not completely.” The Teidar splashed some water onto her face and rubbed. “Anyway, I hope this bath is not a formal ‘Morningstar’.”

Twoface just sat in the water, hopeless and sad.

Icespear relented. “Okay, bad joke,” she sent. “I’m sorry.”

“Joke all you wish,” Twoface merely muttered. “It doesn’t matter.”

Since it seemed clear that Icespear was not giving positive reinforcement, and not very good at giving comfort, she left the Mizol alone and washed out her long hair. While Icespear was aware of the situation they seemed to be in, Teidar like herself had been taught never to fret over what was out of their control. Whatever came to pass, one could either cower or meet it head on. Dhalid was dhalid.

The little human woman returned with a tray of two cups and a porcelain pitcher. It certainly seemed odd that the guards regarded her presence so casually.

“Oh, low tide,” Icespear said incredulously upon seeing the pitcher. “You really are condemning us with a ‘Morningstar’, aren’t you?”

The human eyed the Teidar curiously as she set down the tray. “I beg your pardon.”

“Morningstar,” Icespear told the human. “You never heard of Morningstar? Oh, of course you haven’t, human. It’s a final ritual originating from the ocean world of Taben. In ancient times, there existed a Loroi sailor called Morningstar who pillaged and plundered settlements across the continent islands of Taben. One day, her raiders were defeated in battle and Morningstar was captured. Before being put to death, Morningstar’s captors offered her a comfortable and painless death if she revealed the location of her treasure. Seeing no way out, Morningstar did just that. Her captors, true to their promise, offered her a hot bath. Since the sailors of Taben are burdened with enduring the cold, harsh sea, and since wood had to be conserved on Taben’s islands for ship's timber in that time, being offered a hot bath was considered a generous custom. Morningstar’s captors locked her in a bathing room with only a cup of brew and poison extracted from aria-bedein, a toxic fish. Morningstar bathed, drank every drop of brew until she was drunk and took the poison last. That’s how the ritual of ‘Morningstar' was conceived. A gentle way to sentence Loroi to death.”

“Fascinating tale. For a moment I thought you were referring to Lucifer the Morningstar,” Judith commented as she poured drinking water from the pitcher into the cups.

“Loosey- Who?” said Icespear as Judith handed her a cup of water.

“Lucifer. An old human story about an angel, a celestial servant who fell out of his maker’s graces and, in an act of defiance, rebelled against his master. As punishment, he was cast out of heaven and into a realm of torment.” This human’s grasp on Trade language was extraordinarily good.

“Sounds bizarre,” Icespear scoffed, not quite understanding the point of such a silly fairytale.

Judith merely chuckled. “Yes, our church gets that a lot.”

“Church?” Twoface asked, curious even in her depressed state of mind. Twoface suddenly remembered a certain human church she heard about years ago. “You’re a nun!”

“Yes, I am a nun,” Judith admitted as she waddled over to Twoface.

“Forgive me if I seem brash, but I’m not interested in converting,” said Twoface. “And I'm quite certain my friend here feels less inclined than I. Besides, I doubt your deity could fix our problems.”

“While I enjoy sharing God’s word among the people that I come across in the known universe,” Judith said as she knelt down above the partially submerged Twoface, “I am not here to make you converts of our Lord.” Judith offered the second cup to Twoface who merely stared at her. “It is not poison, I assure you.”

Twoface reluctantly accepted the cup and drank.

Icespear, bewildered by all this, drank her water and set her cup on the edge of the bath. “I don’t understand. What’s a ‘none'?”

“A nun! A religious servant,” Twoface said matter-of-factly. Icespear cocked her head even more confused. Twoface sighed and told her friend, “I seem to remember something I learned after the Great War during some shore leave on Azimol. When the humans were allowed to tour the Union more freely years ago, they sent over not just diplomats and corporate executive officers. They sent people representing humanity’s religious organizations. I saw only a few of them. Several religious sects were seeking aid through the Barsam Clerics to spread their ‘good message’ among the aliens. Much to the annoyance of the Union’s majority of atheists. Among them was a popular cult following called the Christian Church. A patriarchal religion with hundreds of millions of followers that worship a single deity. Led and administered exclusively by males that call themselves the Clergy. Since females are not allowed to be Clergy members, they aid the church as either monastic and mendicant servants. That is what a nun is.”

Judith was impressed by the Mizol’s knowledge of human culture. “You are very well-informed, Miss Twoface. I'm flattered that you seem to know a bit about my religion.”

“It’s my job as a diplomat,” Twoface shrugged. “Or rather was.”

“But what does a nun do?” Icespear asked, much of what Twoface described flew in and out her long ears.

“Quite a bit,” said Judith. “Mostly we recite prayers, help the impoverished, assist in spiritual ceremonies and swear oaths of celibacy.”

“What is celibacy?” Icespear asked.

“It means we are not allowed to have sex,” Judith said simply as she rolled up her blue sleeves.

The Teidar laughed at such a silly concept. “Well, that’s dumb,” Icespear blurted out.

“That is our commitment to God,” Judith said proudly as she fetched a comb and a wooden headrest.

“Who the shred is God?” asked Icespear, getting irritated by all this information that made no sense to her.

Judith simply sat down behind Icespear, placed the headrest behind the Teidar's head and replied, “A long story which I’d love to share another time. For now, let me comb your hair.” Water splashed as Icespear moved defensively away from the nun. Teidar did not like to be touched. “You’re not afraid of a little, old woman, are you?”

“No, I’m not!” Icespear’s eyes narrowed with agitation. How dare this nun insult her bravery!

Judith pulled a pair of gloves out of a pouch on her skirt and patted the headrest. “Then come here. I promise not to touch your skin.” She slipped the gloves on.

Icespear reluctantly moved back to the edge of the pool, sat down on the step below the water and laid her head back. Judith was gentle as she brushed the knots out of Icespear’s hair. Slowly but surely Icespear relaxed, but still did not completely trust this nun.

Judith turned her attention to Twoface as she combed the Teidar’s hair. “I will be happy to comb your hair, Miss Twoface, when I am done here.”

“Save the effort,” Twoface said, still feeling down. “I have not much hair to comb.”

“I insist,” said Judith. “You both should look your best.”

“For what?”

The nun smiled amidst her brushing. “For your meeting with Emperor Greywind.”

That caught both Loroi off guard. “The Emperor?!” Twoface said incredulously, rising to her feet in the water, exposing her scars and nude form. “She’s here?! Wait, does that mean… do you know where the baby is? And how do you know the Emperor?!”

“Dear woman, please, peace!” Judith urged her. She stopped combing Icespear’s hair a moment. “I can tell you nothing except this: listen to what the Emperor has to say, and all will be well. Although, if it comforts you, our youngest arrival is in good health and being cared for. For now, just enjoy this bath… and relax.” The nun resumed combing Icespear’s cerulean hair.

While it was unclear if this nun was being honest, Twoface got the feeling that she was not going to get much information out of her. So she sank back into the water, deep in thought. If Judith was telling the truth, then it was reassuring to know the baby was alright. But this day was becoming very strange.

-

After their bath was finished and the two Loroi dried off, Sister Judith offered the Loroi fresh jumpsuits and new boots.

“Sister Judith,” said Twoface as she slipped on her boots. “There is something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

“Please,” Judith encouraged the Mizol.

“What is a human like you doing in a place like this?”

The little nun laughed. “That is a long story. But, to make it brief, I arrived in Union territory nine tozons ago. Originally I was an assistant to an Archbishop who came to Azimol to discuss expanding our faith with the help of Barsam Clerics. I also acted as translator since the Archbishop did not understand Trade that well.”

“Typical zealots,” Icespear snorted as she zipped up her suit. She did not respect religion much.

Judith continued as the Loroi followed her out of the bathing chamber, “During our time at Azimol, I found myself assisting the Barsam with philanthropic work, which drew me away from the Archbishop for a while since the Barsam had other translators to assist him. It was… unusual to be helping aliens. But our Lord’s love does not stop at humanity. I found myself growing fond of the aliens. Sadly the Archbishop was not having success convincing the Barsam or Loroi to allow the building of a Christian church, and travelled back to Terran space. I was not ready to leave. The Barsam were able arrange for a visa on my behalf so that I could stay and assist them. Azimol is a rich world, but there are still many troubled peoples and places of impoverishment. I could not leave them suffering. Aiding the Barsam’s philanthropic work was difficult, but it made me happy to help those in need. After two tozons, I was approached by Mizol Operatives who seemed suspicious of a lone human helping aliens. They plied me with questions... before shipping me off Azimol without so much as an explanation.”

Judith led the Loroi into a vast garden.

“Though frightened and confused, my faith sustained me. But I was in for a surprise as I was suddenly brought before Emperor Greywind. At first, I didn’t know what to think of the Emperor. I had heard stories and was certainly nervous. But she simply sat with me. Asked me about my life, my occupation and even my faith. She seemed intrigued about my willingness to remain in such an alien environment and provide aid to peoples in need. The exact details of our discussion, I regret to say, remains strictly between her Highness and myself. I can say, however, that she offered to employ me. Which, after much thought, I accepted.”

Twoface asked, “Employ you for what?”

The little nun merely looked back at Twoface and smirked. “You shall see.”

The group passed through the Garden and approached a large arena. It was midday, sun shining. Laughter could be heard from within. And even young voices. That was odd. As they entered the arena, Twoface and Icespear were not prepared for what they saw. Dozens of Loroi, presumably of high rank and status, were sitting together laughing and enjoying refreshments. It was hard to tell which castes they belonged to since they also wore colorful robes. They were encircling a small competition happening in the center floor of the social arena where five Loroi children were tightly gripping a rope. They were playing tug-of-war against…

…Five human children.

Now this was unusual! What were human children doing here?

The Loroi spectators laughed, clearly entertained by this childish competition. Off to the side, a few more human children sat. Altogether Twoface counted fifty-one human children present. Thirty-one males and twenty females. And sixty-eight Loroi children sitting among them as well. All of varying heights and ages, cheering on the tug-of-war.

In the tug-of-war, it seemed the Loroi children were winning, until the human children, all of whom were boys, shouted together in Trade, “Pull! Pull! Pull!”

With one mighty effort, the boys pulled the rope and dragged the Loroi girls down with it.

The adults roared with amusement. The little boys cheered and mocked the losers, “Plungers! Plungers!” Causing the Loroi girls to pout.

Sister Judith sighed with a smile. "Ah, children. So full of energy. No?" she said to Twoface.

Twoface had no idea how to respond to the nun. Or to any of this.

Among the Loroi spectators, Twoface saw Ashrain and even Weaver who finally took notice of them.

The Loroi which stood out the most amidst this assembly, was sitting in a silk robe of royal violet and silver. Although she was not wearing her crown of four illuminated spires, Twoface knew it was Greywind. Although she was not smiling and laughing with the rest of the assembled Loroi, she did not have an unpleasant look on her face as she watched the children play. Twoface’s eyes went wide with recognition when she saw what the old Emperor was holding in her robed arms and realised that she failed to count one more human. It was the baby.

[Quickdraw101]

While I don't think that there's anything malicious about this, I'm curious as to why this is being done.

[Krulle]

This will be Greywind's legacy.

Letting Loroi and Humans grow up toegther, and thus learn they are similar enough to not hate each other.
It will take a few generations to spread to the populace as a whole (maybe faster with the Loroi's telepathy and learning through telepathic transfer from Listels), but in the future, many Loroi will remember having grown up together with Human children, and that thus the Humans are NOT the enemy.
Grewind is young enough to ensure that some of these Lorois will take places of power to ensure that the political institutions will vote accordingly.

I just wonder where she "collected" the children, and whether there are Human Adults present to vouch for the trueness of the stories to be told by these kids at later times (beside Judith, who seems to be a human caretaker).

(This story part is much better again, and doesn't rub as many buttons in my brain. Thanks, Snoofman!)

I just wonder at the "alarm" bit of Twoface when she saw the baby.
But then, any form of surprise may result in "alarm", in this case seeing the baby in the Emperor's arms (and not somewhere asleep in a bed someplace).

[Snoofman]

Dawn - part 11

Greywind took notice of Icespear and Twoface. With her unchanging, neutral expression, she spoke, “Sister Judith, come here.”

Judith nodded. “Miss Twoface and Icespear, wait here,” the nun said and approached the Emperor.

Greywind handed the infant delicately over to Sister Judith and stood up. “Watch over the infant as well as the children. I will share a word with the Unsheathed and Sentinel.”

“Yes, Emperor,” Judith bowed respectfully and switched her focus on the baby, rocking her gently. She made her way over to the small mob of children and sat with them as they cheered on the next contesters to tug-of-war.

Greywind stepped away from the crowd toward Twoface and Icespear. Another Loroi that Twoface sadly remembered stood also from the spectators. Livewire, clad in a silk robe of black and gold, followed after Greywind.

“Come with me,” Greywind commanded the Mizol and Teidar as she existed the arena.

Livewire was last as she motioned for the two Loroi to proceed and sent, “After you. I insist.”

Twoface complied, but not before taking one last look at the infant. How she wished to hold the child in her arms. To feel her. But at least she was safe. Icespear scowled at Livewire as she followed after the shorter Loroi and their Emperor.

"Bootlicker," Icespear muttered.

"Careful, little woman," Livewire verbally whispered. "The next insult could be your last."

The Emperor led the three Loroi to the edge of the Garden and descended the stairs leading to the balcony overlooking the sea. Stopping by the balcony’s stone railing, Greywind silently watched the waves of the ocean roll in. It was temperate today with just a gentle wind. While the wind brushed slightly against the other Loroi’s hair as they stood by the railing as well and awaited judgement, the breeze barely moved the long, violet cape that was Greywind’s hair. Livewire stood a few paces away as she observed.

The silence was broken when Greywind finally sent, “Teidar Icespear. You stand before me, stripped of your armor and rank tabs. Guilty of the following crimes: inflicting dire injury on agent Livewire along with her operatives and aiding a criminal to escape. Tell me what compelled you to make such a foolish decision.”

“I did it for a friend,” Icespear sent back as she glanced at Twoface. "And because Livewire is bloodthirsty psychotic who was about to kill a subdued Loroi without so much as granting her trial."

That struck a nerve as Livewire glared at the Teidar.

“Oh?” asked the old Emperor. “Then how do you plead in your defence?”

“Unsheathed don’t plead,” replied Icespear with a hand on her hip. She was awfully cocky. Twoface inwardly worried that she would say something to earn her a straight trip to prison. Or worse. Then again that was probably where they were heading.

Greywind’s expression barely changed as she stared down the feisty Teidar. “Is that right?” That cold, calculating stare was enough to send shivers down even Twoface’s spine. The Emperor had such a confident, cool aura around her. It was no wonder this Loroi had crushed her political opposition swiftly when she seized power tozons ago. “I could have you court matrialed for your insubordination.”

Icespear shrugged. “I’ve had worse… my Emperor.”

Greywind switched her attention to the shorter Loroi. “Mizol Twoface,” she sent. “You stand before me, stripped of your armor and rank. Guilty of the following crimes: holding a fellow warrior and Mizol at gunpoint and aiding a criminal in escape. Tell me what compelled you to do something so rash.”

Twoface met the Emperor in her blue eyes and answered, “To save my sister.”

“Ah, yes," sent the Emperor. "I have read Ashrain's and Livewire's recent report. Luckystar, a former Soroin turned dropout who turned to cooperating with and aiding gangers. So you defied Livewire here because you did not want to see your sister punished, or worse yet, killed.” Gripping her cape of long hair, Greywind angrily swept it back as she blew off steam.

A wicked smirk curled on Livewire’s lips. She seemed to be enjoying this. Icespear, noticing the Mizol’s sick sense of amusement, glared at her while Twoface kept her focus on the Emperor.

Greywind placed a hand on the stone railing as she stared out at the ocean. “I have read your history and profile. Very impressive list of achievements. A small Fighter given the opportunity to jump to the Mizol caste to resolve conflicts and gather intelligence for the benefit of the Union for many decades. An accomplished Sentinel until now. After decades of service, you were prepared to throw it all away over an impulsive desire to shelter a criminal. Why?”

The reasons were complicated, but the only sincere answer that Twoface could give was, “Because I love her.”

Greywind’s form seemed to passively deflate as if releasing some pent up frustration. "Love? Or because you are too attached to your sibling?"

Twoface could not answer because inwardly she could not deny it. Even if it was to protect her sister, Twoface had wilfully committed an act of betrayal.

“Foolish,” the Emperor spoke audibly. “Selfish. Pitiful. Undutiful. Sacrilege.” Her gaze turned back to the tides of the ocean and resumed sanzai. “Attachment. The root of all tragedy.”

Livewire could not help but smile more. She knew from experience how her great grandmother dealt with traitors and was eager to see what sentence would be passed on these two that caused her great insult.

The fate of Twoface and Icespear was decided when Greywind, with her gaze still locked on the ocean tides, sent, “Livewire! You may join your sisters and friends in the Arena. I must share an exchange with these two alone.”

Livewire’s satisfied smile turned to bemused disappointment. “Great grandmother, are you sure? Shouldn’t these two be dealt-”

“You are excused, Livewire,” Greywind said firmly without turning to face her subordinate.

Livewire huffed. “As you wish, my Emperor.” Giving the two Loroi a final leer, Livewire turned heel and stormed off to the Social Arena.

“Now do not think for a moment that I easily show leniency,” Greywind addressed Twoface and Icespear. Her tone was not hostile, but sternly stating a fact. “Do not presume that you will not be punished. For what you both did was in fact treachery. And treachery goes not without consequences. So here is your sentence.” The Emperor turned her gaze to the Unsheathed. “Teidar Icespear, by the authority granted unto me, you will be placed on parole and tasked with protecting and ensuring the safety of every child here, human and Loroi. When I am absent from the Island, you answer to Sister Judith.” She faced Twoface. “Mizol Lennai Twoface, you too shall be placed on parole and avoid further penalties under the condition that you assist Sister Judith as well as the other caretakers of the Island. Your task, simply, is to take care of my children’s children as well as my adopted children.”

Twoface and Icespear were thrown back by this revelation. “Emperor, you have adopted children?!” Twoface asked incredulously. “You mean the human children?”

“Who else?” Greywind replied cooly. “And remember. In regards to your parole, you may not under any circumstances leave the Island without authorization. You are both confined here for a full tozon. Communication with the outside is strictly prohibited. Your conduct and behavior will be monitored and evaluated by Listel Weaver, who has also accepted the task of watching over and educating the children. If you are deemed trustworthy, as my grand niece Ashrain has vouched on your behalf, your parole shall be lifted and your armor and privileges restored. You both may even earn the opportunity to educate the children.”

“Emperor, educate the children how?” asked Twoface.

“All in good time,” said Greywind. “Now do you accept?”

“Well, it’s better than prison,” said Icespear. “I accept, Emperor.”

Twoface considered it. While she wanted more than anything to be allowed to be with the child and protect her, this was not at all what she had in mind. Just why exactly did Greywind adopt so many human children? What did she want with them? A family? Doubtful. Greywind had more than enough descendants, and humans could not fulfil that role. No doubt Greywind had gained an exclusive right or woven a loophole in Union policies to adopt human children herself. And how exactly did the Emperor intend to educate these children here? And to what end?

So many questions swam in Twoface’s head, but she would have to wait for her answers. At least she could ensure the child’s safety, even if she would technically be a prisoner without a cage. “I accept, Emperor,” sent Twoface.

While Greywind did not smile, she was satisfied. “Excellent. Your duties begin immediately. You may go and assist Sister Judith in the Arena,” said Greywind. When neither of the Loroi moved, still shook and a bit dumbstruck, Greywind ordered them, “Now!”

Without another word, Twoface and Icespear headed for the Arena.

Greywind stayed by the balcony, once again overlooking the ocean. It would be a while before she could smell fresh sea salt, feel the caress of ocean winds and enjoy the fragrant beauty of plants. Soon she would have to return to Cry Of The Wind and did not waste a solon enjoying the beauty of Deinar.

Her peaceful state of mind was disrupted by a rustling in the bushes at the top of the stairs. And it was not caused by the gentle wind. The old Emperor sighed and raised her left index finger. “Ben,” she called out someone’s name and motioned with her finger. “Come down here.”

A human boy with pale skin and blond hair stepped out from behind the bushes and descended the balcony stairs to join Greywind. While he was a little shorter than the Emperor, Greywind knew that he had not yet grown to his full height. After all, he was only twelve years old. “Uh, hi,” he said nervously.

“What did you hear?” asked Greywind, still watching the ocean.

The boy named Ben shrugged his shoulders. “Nothing.” The Emperor turned a skeptical eye toward him. “Really, nothing! Except for your brief outburst. I don’t speak sanzai.”

“Naturally,” said Greywind. “Sanzai is not spoken.”

Ben groaned. “You know what I mean.”

Greywind corrected his speech. “‘You know what I mean…’”

Ben sighed with frustration. “…Emperor.”

Greywind gave an approving nod. “Remember, if you want to spy on people, don’t get caught.”

Ben replied with a hint of sarcasm, “No kidding?” He leaned over the stone railing and rested his chin over his arms, watching the ocean waves alongside the Emperor. “Emperor?”

“Yes?”

“Who are those two new Loroi?”

“Twoface and Icespear. New additions to our caregiving community here,” Greywind replied, resting both her hands on the stone railing alongside the smaller human. She glanced down at the young boy. “You are aware that, at moments like these, I prefer to be left alone. And you didn’t formerly approach your Emperor either.”

The ocean breeze waved through Ben’s blonde hair as he said meekly, “If you want me to go, you just have to say so.”

Greywind said nothing in reply as she too leaned over the stone railing to rest her chin on overlapping arms. “You still have much to learn about the rules of Loroi society.”

“Spoken rules?” asked Ben. “Or unspoken?”

“Both, if necessary,” she replied.

“Emperor?”

“Yes?”

“How long are you staying this time?”

“Two more days. Then I must return to service.”

“I wish I could go with you.”

“If you pass your trials, you might. In the meantime, you keep doing your job as Big Brother. Watch over your family. Help Sister Judith and the caregivers. Remember! Many Loroi are not blessed with what you have. Do not waste it. And, if it does not interfere with your responsibilities, have some fun.”

“I will,” said Ben with a smile.

“One more thing,” Greywind added. “Help keep an eye on the new baby in my absence. I have a theory that she has a special gift. If you notice anything extraordinary, you tell me. I am not sure what, but there seems to be something special about her.”

Ben turned his gaze away, not liking Greywind calling the baby ‘special’ and replied enviously, “Okay.”

“Not ‘special’ in that way! Don’t get jealous,” Greywind chided him. “Jealousy is unbecoming. For humans and Loroi. Remember you are Big Brother to her as well. So she is family now.”

“Yes, Emperor,” said Ben. “But what’s the baby’s name?”

“That task I entrust to another. She’ll come up with something.” A telepathic and audible eruption emerged from the Social Arena. The older children, human and Loroi, had begun their next round of competitions. Greywind stood back up to her full height and said to Ben, “They seem to have started staff combat. I am anxious to see how well you have trained this last tozon. Come, Ben.”

Ben stood up and followed his Emperor back to the Social Arena. He was a good staff fighter, but he hated when one of the Loroi girls whacked him with a wooden pole. While he had toughened up, he still hated the dejected feeling of getting beaten. While the Loroi girls were taught to treasure males, they were also taught to regard the human boys as equal combatants in these competitions.

While Greywind could not read his thoughts, she noticed his disheartened mood. “I’ll make you a deal. Win one round! Then when everyone else is asleep tonight, come to my chambers. We’ll play a game.”

Ben perked up upon hearing that. “Really?” Greywind nodded. “Then I’ll fight hard and win every match!”

“I admire you enthusiasm, but don’t make promises you cannot keep,” the old Emperor gave him a friendly warning, but liked his determination.

Ben was suddenly charged with new adrenaline and determined to impress his Emperor. “Oh, I’m gonna’ fight extra extra hard!”

Greywind was pleased. Boosting Ben’s confidence, as long as it did not blindsight him, improved his performance.

[Snoofman]

Dawn - part 12

-

For the rest of the day, Twoface and Icespear assisted Sister Judith in monitoring the children. Twoface felt quite awkward about it. She was not educated as a caregiver, but was determined to be a good one. Weaver had also risen up from her perch to help them out.

Sister Judith handed the infant back to Greywind as the Emperor took her place among her fellow Loroi. Twoface couldn’t help but feel envious, but knew she could do nothing about it. While Livewire glared loathingly at Twoface and Icespear, Twoface knew they had nothing to fear. She could do nothing to them here.

Amidst the spectacles, Twoface asked Sister Judith, “Why does Emperor Greywind insist on holding the baby?”

“Greywind’s time with us is short,” said Judith. “While Greywind has adopted these human children, she still must oversee her political and military duties abroad. Which is why I and the Loroi caregivers here watch over them. And three other human caregivers.”

“There are other human adults here?” asked a surprised Twoface.

Judith nodded. “You will have your chance to meet them as well. Anyway, together we care for these children in Greywind’s absence and give her an account of their upbringing when she returns. Though her visits are few every year. Right now Greywind is spending as much time as she can with our newest arrival, the baby, so that she may leave a positive imprint on the child.”

Twoface watched as Greywind held a bottle of feeding solution and delicately fed the little girl. It was hard to imagine someone like Greywind being motherly. Then again she did birth four daughters, even if only one was still alive today, and had to have some nursing skills before handing them over to caregivers.

Twoface’s attention switched back to the human children engaged in a competition of staff combat. Only the youngest and smallest were prohibited from competing as they were not ready. The hours passed by as Loroi and human children smacked wooden poles with each other. There were a few angry outbursts when some competitors broke the rules and wrestled with each other, which Icespear was quick to end along with a referee. Icespear was taking her new task seriously.

Most of the Loroi girls beat human boys and girls in pole fighting, save for the tallest human child among them with pale skin and blond hair. His mastery of the staff was terrific for one of his age. His swings were fluid and precise. Each blow he delivered to his opponents made the poles crack like thunder. Some loroi were even knocked off their feet by his force. It was unusual to see a male engage in combat, but the adults cheered him on. He even gave charming winks with every victory as he held his wooden pole triumphantly, earning him some bashful blushes from the Loroi spectators. Including the younger girls.

“Who is that male?” Twoface asked Judith.

“That is Ben,” said Judith.

After Ben bested three Loroi girls, the final contestant stepped into the fighting ring. A young Loroi called Swiftsure, no older than seven tozons, with long pink hair tied in four pony tails. She held up her wooden pole, waiting for Ben. While she was just a hair taller than Ben, the human was not intimidated and assumed his pose, smacking the end of his wooden pole with hers.

The Loroi referee blew her whistle and the two youngsters sparred, smacking poles against each other and dodging each other’s swings.

“Is Ben the oldest human child here?” asked Twoface.

Judith nodded. “The first among Greywind’s adopted. He has lived here the longest. Longer than even me.”

Twoface could see how Greywind watched Ben fight. While she masked her emotions well, Greywind did watch the boy intensely.

Swiftsure bested Ben by knocking him off his feet with the end of her pole and pinning him down by the tip of her staff. Ben begrudgingly yielded, but was helped to his feet by Swiftsure. The two grasped hands, smiling at each other. It seemed obvious they respected each other.

Twoface could not help but notice Ben shot Greywind a happy glance, to which Greywind simply nodded with approval. Ben’s smile widened.

"Perhaps I am mistaken," said Twoface to Judith, "but the Emperor seems quite interested in Ben."

The old nun was silent a moment before answering, "Well... I cannot say for sure. What I can say is that Ben bears the responsibility as big brother here. Greywind expects much from him."

After the competitions were done, more food and beverages were brought for the Loroi and humans. While most Loroi foods did not sit well with humans, Greywind had imported Terran goods long before the trade sanctions were put in effect. As well as Delrias foods since the furry bipeds shared similar biochemistry with humans.

Before beginning their feast, Sister Judith stood and instructed the children to join in a feasting ritual called ‘grace’. The children folded their hands and bowed their heads as Judith spoke, “We are thankful for all that we have.”

To which the children chanted in unison, “We are thankful.” Right before wolfing down their food. The humanity children gobbled up nearly every last scrap. The bigger children like Ben were the hungriest. While Loroi typically ate once a day, humans apparently needed three meals a day.

“Good grief,” commented Twoface to Sister Judith, amazed at human appetite. “I thought the baby ate a lot. These children eat like tomorrow will never come.”

Sister Judith merely chuckled as she chewed a plant food called a potato. “Indeed,” she said, swallowing her food. “And this will only be enough to placate them until dessert.”

After dinner, dessert was essentially a bin of frozen cream that Icespear, Weaver and Twoface helped Judith to distribute among the children. When all the children had been served, Icespear curiously took a small spoon and sampled the white goop. The sweet taste exploded over her tongue.

“This alien stuff is good,” Icespear said enthusiastically.

“Please, have some,” Judith insisted.

“Don’t mind if I do,” Icespear fetched a bowl and took a huge scoop.

Judith offered to Twoface and Weaver who politely declined. Icespear scarfed down the delicious frozen cream and went for a second serving. The other Loroi present simply regarded her with wide eyes. And a few audible smirks.

Ashrain, who was watching the Unsheathed incredulously consume the alien goop from her spot among her relatives, sent to her, “Icespear, do you have any idea what you are eating?”

“Who cares, Torrai?” Icespear sent back. “It’s delicious.” Icespear spoke to Judith, “Hey, what do call this stuff?”

“Vanilla ice cream,” replied Judith.

“What is ‘vanilla izis gream’?” said Icespear, spooning some more of the sweet white stuff into her mouth.

“‘Ice cream,’” Judith corrected her. “A dairy product which comes from domesticated farm animals on Earth.”

“What’s dairy?” asked Icespear, not quite recognising the word.

A little human girl answered enthusiastically from the mob of children, “It’s cow milk.”

Icespear roared with laughter. “Good joke, little human!” Though had no idea what a ‘cow’ was.

Listel Weaver nervously sent to Icespear, “Actually, she’s not joking.” Weaver was kind enough to provide Icespear with a telepathic image of how humans extracted milk from an Earth animal called a cow, pasteurised the white fluid, and shipped it off to make numerous consumables, including ice cream.

“Oh!” Icespear’s face turned an unhealthy shade of blue as she dropped her bowl, ran from the seated crowd and hurled.

“Eww!” The human children cried. A few of the Loroi present, young and old, were also revolted. Though that did not stop a few from snickering. Livewire laughed the hardest. Twoface left her perch to help Icespear.

By the time the Loroi and humans had had their fill, the sun was setting. Sister Judith, with the new aid of Icespear, Weaver and Twoface lead the children, human and Loroi, to their sleeping quarters. The rest of the adults left the Social Arena to retire for the evening.

Twoface noticed Greywind hand the baby over to Judith before retiring herself.

Most of the children’s bedrooms accommodated four occupants. Except for Ben who had been given the luxury of his own room and one room accommodating two other human children. Making for a total of seven human bedrooms and five Loroi bedrooms.

While Weaver had already a few days worth of experience, Sister Judith explained to Twoface and Icespear that, while she tended to the baby in Judith’s private quarters, the two of them had to assist the children with cleaning their teeth and washing before bed. Judith would join them as soon as she was finished helping the baby. While most of the Loroi girls could take care of themselves, a few need help with washing and cleaning. Fortunately the eldest Loroi children could assist their younger siblings and relatives with that.

The human children, on the other hand, needed more assistance and attention. Especially since conveying guidance was tricky without sanzai. Twoface, Icespear and Weaver learned as they worked. They helped brush the children’s hair and clean their teeth. It was especially frustrating trying to convince the youngest children who stubbornly refused to clean their teeth.

The few eldest children managed well on their own. With a quick brush and shower, they were out of the washrooms and went straight to their rooms. The smallest human children, on the other hand, had to be given bubbly baths. Twoface was struggling to keep some of the wild monkeys from flooding the washrooms as the children splashed in the bath tubs.

A little child no taller than Twoface’s waist ran naked from another bath with a soap bar in her mouth and Icespear chasing after her. “Really?!” Icespear yelled after the little human. “You won’t clean your teeth, but you’ll chew on a bar of soap?!”

Luckily, Judith had returned to them after putting the baby to sleep. She was quick to catch the wet, naked child and brought the little girl back to the bathes. “Let us avoid raising voices when disciplining children. Shall we, Miss Icespear?” Judith said firmly.

Icespear groaned but complied. She sent to Twoface, “Send me to prison! Please!”

After the baths, the three Loroi and Judith dried the children off and dressed them. The few tiny children that still had not learnt toilet training needed their diapers switched first. Icespear groaned fiercely as the baby she tried to fit kept kicking off its diaper straps before Icespear could fix its tiny gown.

"Not like that!" Icespear was surprised as the blond-haired male from earlier walked up to assist. Icespear's ears darkened seeing him dressed in nothing but a towel around his waist.

The toddler kicked around stubbornly. "Shh. It's okay," Ben cooed the little one, and fit the diaper on snuggly and slipped the gown on. Ben looked up at Icespear with a grin. "You got to calm her down first."

"Thanks." Icespear did not mean that to sound as sarcastic as it did.

"Happy to help." Ben left for the changing rooms.

"He is... quite helpful for a child," Twoface commented.

"And quite handsome," Weaver added. "See something you like, Icespear?"

"Me?!" Icespear was shocked.

"Well, you seem a bit engrossed."

"Please! The human is not my type."

"But you're blushing."

"I- I am not!"

The ladies laughed. Even Judith chuckled, "Lord have mercy."

Once finished, Judith and the Loroi escorted the children to their respective rooms. Icespear felt less than thrilled as the tiny youngsters she escorted tugged on her arms.

“Stop yanking, you little runts,” she grumbled as she kneed the door panel. The door slid open and Icespear pushed the children inside. She turned to leave.

“Miss Icespear, your work is not done,” said Judith, leading her own little entourage to their bedroom. “You must tuck in the children, make sure they are well and read them a bedtime story.”

“A what?!” said Icespear.

“A bedtime story is a short tale that puts human children into a soothing state of mind. You will find it on a datapad inside.” The nun entered the bedroom of her charge and the door slid shut behind her.

Icespear groaned and grumbled as she stomped back into the bedroom, made sure the little humans were lying down in their bunkbeds and grabbed the datapad from a small dresser. Taking a seat in the center of the bedroom, she found her way to archives of human bedtime stories. Not caring which one to tell, Icespear chose a random chapter from a story called, ‘Winnie the Pooh’.

While the story itself was translated to Trade and could be conveyed without trouble, Icespear could not help but send out to her companions nearby, “Wow! This is garbage. I’m reading about a gluttonous anthropomorphic bear (whatever that is) that harasses his neighbors while draining their food supplies. Humans actually like these stories?!”

“Icespear, stop moping and just read,” Twoface sent back. While she understood her friend’s stressful dilemma, Twoface had a higher patience with these children. She was conveying a little story called ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.’ While she failed to see the morale of such a tale, she had to admit it was sweet. It struck her as a pragmatic and typical story of a female caring for seven shorter males. Males that struck her as more like bearded children for some reason. And the pictorials were also pleasant to look at and show the humans around her. Twoface wondered if there were any Loroi tales that she could share with these kids in the future.

When the children were finally put to bed, Sister Judith emerged, followed by Twoface, Weaver and an exhausted Icespear from the other childrens’ rooms.

“Who takes first watch?” asked Icespear, inwardly hoping that it was not her.

“Well, no one,” said a perplexed Judith. “That’s what the guards outside are for. If the children need anything, we rest close by. Come! I will show you three to your rooms.”

The nun led the three to the servants' sleeping quarters. Icespear and Weaver were forced to share a room, which suited the Teidar just fine since she was ready to crash.

Before retiring, Twoface requested, “Forgive me, Sister Judith, but may I see the baby? Just for a moment.”

Judith sighed. “Just as long as you do not wake her. She's just been put to sleep with the others.”

Judith showed Twoface the nursery, where several human and Loroi infants slept in cribs. Twoface sighed with relief as Judith showed her where her charge slept. Twoface smiled down at the little girl before following Judith back to the servants' quarters. Twoface would have to share accommodations with Judith until a room could be arranged for her. Fortunately Judith had a large bed.

The old nun's room was a simple setup with a wooden, praying kneeler in a corner with a cross hanging on the wall above it. Twoface sat on the edge of the bed while Judith prayed in her corner.

“This is not at all how I thought it would turn out,” Twoface said quietly, referring not just to the baby's situation now, but to her sister's unknown fate as well.

Judith did not seem bothered by Twoface’s need for talk as she prayed. “It never is,” she replied gently. “When I came to the Union years ago, I was certain God had another plan for me. Instead my lord seems to have led me here. To help these people. And these children.”

“Why?” asked Twoface. “I mean no offence and I know little about the Christian sect, but it seems unlikely the Loroi here will ever welcome your religion.”

“While the prayers and holy books enhances my belief,” said Judith, “I am not here to burden the Loroi with my faith. Nor am I here to spread religion. I wish only to spread the grace of God.”

Twoface raised a curious eyebrow at that. “Pardon? I fail to see the difference.”

Judith merely smiled. “Allow me to part with you a few thousand years of human wisdom. God is love.”

Twoface processed the nun’s words for a moment before she realised what the human was poetically trying to convey. “Is that what you’re trying to spread? Love?” Judith nodded. “Why?”

“Because I believe that love will save our peoples. And so much more.”

“I see,” Twoface said. She honestly did not know how to feel about such sentiment. Naive, yet touching. The Barsam Kall would have liked this human.

Sister Judith finished her prayer and rose from her kneeler. "So then, Miss Twoface, what are you going to call her?"

"Her?"

"The baby! While Greywind is the official warden of the child now, she has granted you the right to name the baby in recognition of your dedication to delivering her to safety. So.. have you thought of a name?"

Twoface was confused. "Me? I... I'm afraid not."

"Well, no need to worry," Judith slipped behind a curtain to switch into a nightgown. "You will have plenty of time to think of something during your time with us."

Judith sighed as she finally sat down on the other end of the bed. "I, uh, hope you don't mind a roommate until we can fix proper accommodations for you."

Twoface shrugged. "Social mores must give way to necessity in a crisis."

Judith laughed at that. "Surely we are not in that much trouble. Good night, Miss Twoface." Judith shut out the light, laying her head down.

"Yes, I suppose the night seems good." Twoface lay her head down. She let out a long exhale. This may not have been where she expected to end up. But at least she could rest easy knowing the baby was delivered to a safe place. Twoface smiled. It felt comforting to know that Twoface would not be parted from the baby. She hoped that Luckstar, despite being seduced into the life of a criminal, was safe. Perhaps she could find her in time and redeem her sister. She would have to be secretive though. The warriors were not likely to pardon a former warrior turned ganger. Just what had happened to Luckstar after being separated for all these years. Before sleep took her, Twoface's mind wandered back to the Greensea hospital. To the baby in her dream. Just what was that?

-

Twoface was abruptly woken up by a presence standing right outside her room. And it was sending to her. Twoface grumbled as she stepped out of bed to see who it was. The door slid open to reveal a pink-haired Loroi with platinum skin and grey eyes. Despite her civilian attire, Twoface could have guessed from her demeanor that this stranger was a Listel

The stranger confirmed it, "Greetings, Mizol Lennai Twoface. I am Listel Sazset Cotton. I apologize for waking you at this inconvenient time, but it is necessary."

"Sazset?" asked Twoface. "You seem a bit young for a Chronicler. Are you another caregiver here?"

"I am in charge of the Emperor's human wards' health. I also study the human psyche."

Twoface squinted tiredly at the Listel. "Is that right? What seems to be the urgency?"

"The Emperor has tasked me to speak with you directly concerning your presence as well as the new arrival."

"But why?"

Cotton grinned, placing a hand to her chest. "I will be happy to explain. But we must continue this discussion in a secure location. Follow me please."

Twoface hesitated as Cotton took a few steps.

Sensing Twoface's reluctance, the Listel sighed. "You and the infant are in no danger here. If it seems to offer any reassurance, you and the baby's safety is of the utmost importance."

Twoface could sense no deception. "But why?"

"Come with me and you will understand."

Twoface felt a bit uneasy about that. For a Listel, this Cotton seemed awfully secretive. Did she have Sentinel training like Twoface? Only one way to find out. Mustering up her courage, Twoface followed the Listel through the mansion to an elevator, taking them far beneath the surface.

"How far down does this lift go?" Twoface asked.

"Far enough out of the range of Loroi's psyche," sent Cotton.

The lift stopped. The doors opened. Cotton led Twoface into a subterranean chamber. Twoface guessed by the presence of computers, medical beds and anatomic scanning devices that this must be a laboratory of sorts.

"Why did you bring me here?" Twoface asked.

"Mizol Lennai Twoface," sent Cotton. "What you are about to be told is in accordance with the will of the Emperor. Everything you are about to hear is strictly secret. Any disclosure of this sensitive information will have severe consequences. Do you understand?"

Twoface saw little reason to argue. Whatever this was, she had no choice but to comply. "Understood."

Cotton smiled and sent, "Then I will explain. It began seven years ago when Torrai Azerein Greywind was on a diplomatic visit to Taben. There the Emperor happened upon something very special."

-

Greywind awoke. It was dim in the room. Hard to tell if dawn was approaching yet. She lay on a blanket laid out on the floor of her chambers. A semi-ring of pillows surrounded her and Ben. The young blond gently wheezed, his eyes gently shut as he slept on his side. He had fallen asleep amidst their late night activities. She meant to move him to the bed, but must have fallen asleep as she lay beside him to admire his adorable features.

They had spent a better part of the night battling each other in a new installment of Rise of the Sun, a popular fleet simulator. Every time Greywind came to visit, she brought back to the Island a new game for them to try. While there were games available for all the children, Greywind and Ben enjoyed their exclusive game nights. Though they did it in secret so as not to create envy among the other children. As Ben mercilessly mashed the buttons of his hand controller, bent on dominating his adversary, Greywind delicately administered commands to her digital forces with gentle pushes on her controls. For an experienced commander-in-chief, commanding a simulated fleet was effortless. Ben was still a sloppy tactician, but Greywind was intent on sharpening his mind.

Ben, fortunately, struck back when they switched to a more human game called Halo, a first-person shooter game and century-old franchise. While Greywind was a superior tactician, Ben proved to be a better fighter. Greywind could not even take out Ben’s character with a sniper rifle, much to her frustration. These human video games were becoming dangerously addictive. Good thing her visits to the Island were few, or she might neglect her imperial duties. They had been playing for hours together.

Greywind stroked the boy’s dirty blonde hair. He was so small when she adopted him, but was slowly growing into a man.

Ben slowly came to, rubbing his blue eyes. “Good morning,” he mumbled.

“Good morning?” asked Greywind, her blue fingers sliding from his hair to his cheek. “Do you mean to say the morning is good? Or that you wish me a good morning? Or you want the morning to be good whether I want it or not?”

“All of the above,” Ben said, still tired. He shuffled over to Greywind, snuggling his face into the base of her neck and royal robes. “Thanks for the new game. It was fun.”

“You should know, Ben, we can’t keep doing this,” Greywind said as she wrapped an arm around his smaller frame. She held him close, resting her chin in his golden locks.

“Doing what?”

“I mean you can't keep visiting my private chambers like this."

"Why not?" Ben tiredly grumbled.

"It might make the other children jealous. And because you're not a small child anymore that needs cuddling. Strong adults stand on their own two feet."

"But you invited me for game night."

"That's not the point, Ben," she said in tired monotone. He was a good boy, but he could still be tricky. "Besides, you are on your way to becoming a full grown male. By loroi standards, you even resemble one. Visiting my chambers like this will be considered inappropriate. People might get the wrong idea.”

“You’re cute, Emperor, but I don’t like you that way,” Ben maffled wryly into her breastbone. He was young, but he was no fool.

Greywind sighed hopelessly. "I wish you would take me more seriously."

"Why? Boys are supposed to be troublemakers."

"I have enough trouble as it is."

"Your fault," Ben teased. "You took me in."

“Foolish earth creature.”

“Vanilla poophead.”

“Thanks,” Greywind mumbled sarcastically, stroking Ben's clutched shoulder with her thumb.

"Emperor."

"Yes, Ben."

"Did you find my mom?"

"No."

Ben hugged Greywind tighter. "I miss her."

"I know, Ben."

There was nothing but pure affection between them, reminiscent of the bond that a mother and son might share. There was something alien yet comforting about being able to hold someone without being bombarded with another's thoughts and feelings. Holding Ben could be addictive.

I'm getting too attached, Greywind chastised herself. Yet she couldn't help it. She ought to send Ben back to his room before the others waked. But she just wanted to hold him a bit longer.

[kiwi]

I’m really enjoying this arc, thank you.

A little child no taller than Twoface’s waist ran naked from another bath with a soap bar in her mouth and Icespear chasing after her. “Really?!” Icespear yelled after the little human. “You won’t clean your teeth, but you’ll chew on a bar of soap?!”

Hahahaha! Yessssssss! Your telekinetic death powers are useless here, Icespear. Also, be grateful she didn’t run off partway through changing a dirty nappy.