ã€ŠWhisper From a Dreamã€‹


 Chapter 1

    Whisper¡­.Where are you?...

    Heart pounding in her chest, she felt her way along the corridor. Darkness surrounded her, and she fell to her knees, gasping as she felt something jagged cut into her leg. Somewhere ahead of her, she could hear something moving.

    ¡°Hello?...¡± she called softly. ¡°Can you hear me?¡±

    Silence met her query. As she drug herself forward, the building shook. Where was this place? Why did someone know her name? Whisper could taste blood now as it trickled from a gash in her forehead. Another scraping sound drifted to her in the dark, from somewhere up ahead. Looking up, she saw two points of light, blood red against the shadows all around her. She realized they were coming closer. Before she could react, hands reached for her throat, and she choked, trying to draw a breath as her attacker lifted her into the air. Those cold, red eyes seemed to mock her. She clawed at the hands, desperate for air now as her strength started to leave her. The unseen foe loosened his grip, just enough to allow her to fill her lungs once again. With that one last breath, Whisper screamed.

    <hr>

    Whisper fell to the floor by her bedside, still gasping for air as she came fully awake. Her long, silver-white hair was matted with sweat, and she shuddered violently. She hugged her knees to her chest, unable to stop the tears from coming to her eyes. There was a soft knock at the door, and she wiped her eyes on the rumpled sleeve of her lab coat. The door opened, and she looked up to see a familiar face, his deep blue eyes filled with concern.

    ¡°Whisper? What happened?¡± he asked, coming to kneel beside her.

    ¡°The voice again...the dream..¡± she told him, her voice little more than a choked whisper.

    Raden wrapped his arms around her, drawing her trembling form close to him. Whisper was beyond grateful for his presence. With him, she felt safe. Though she had been here as long as she could remember, the others kept themselves distant from her. Raden was different, he was never far from her, even after working hours were over for the day. He was the one person she truly trusted, and she knew she could tell him anything. Still, she hated for him to see her this way.

    ¡°We need to tell someone.¡± He urged her gently. ¡°We can¡¯t let this keep happening to you. This is the third time this week alone, and it¡¯s getting worse.¡±

    Whisper pulled back from his embrace to look up at Raden, his powerful 6¡¯3¡± frame towering over her even where they sat on the floor next to the bed.

    ¡°No, please, I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just nightmares. You know what they¡¯ll do, and I¡¯m too close to a breakthrough to take any leave. I¡¯ve been working late, it¡¯s probably just the cost of being a genius.¡± She laughed half-heartedly, knowing even as she spoke that she couldn¡¯t convince him. Taking a deep breath, she stifled the urge to tell him more about the dream. This was not the time, there was too much at stake. She had to stay focused.

    ¡°What about the headaches? The difficulty communicating? We can¡¯t ignore this any longer.¡± He insisted. She had come to him far too many times, shared too many complaints about her health. ¡°If you aren¡¯t going to do this by the books, then you¡¯re at least going to let me run some tests. Don¡¯t argue, either. If you really want to keep working yourself to an early grave, you have to let someone watch out for you. You¡¯re impossible, you know that?¡± He sighed softly, reaching over to move a strand of damp hair out of her eyes as they both got to their feet. She was always like this, always needed to be super-human.

    ¡°Fine. Run your tests, but it¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ll swing by medical for something to help me sleep, after I shower and finish these notes. Are you free this evening?¡± Whisper glanced at the clock, realizing she¡¯d fallen asleep mid-afternoon again.

    ¡°Evening it is. I¡¯ve already briefed the team, and project Omega is right on track. If we keep up at this pace, we should come in at least 2 weeks ahead of schedule. The board is thrilled with it, and more than ready to talk to the investors about our work.¡±

    ¡°Two weeks? Are you sure? That¡¯s incredible! Here, come look at this.¡± She tugged at the sleeve of Raden¡¯s lab coat. ¡°This run was my best yet. There was an increase in effectiveness against all but the most resistant strains, and I¡¯m close to cracking those too, I know I am.¡± Her fingers flew deftly over the keyboard as she brought up the results of her most recent tests. Data scrolled by as she picked out the imagery of her last several live tests. ¡°You can see here, as soon as I focused on binding proteins, the survival rate of the pathogen samples dropped at least 12%.¡±

    ¡°This is impressive.¡± Raden admitted, glancing at her appreciatively. ¡°Engram had better be thankful you love it here.¡± He chuckled softly, relaxing as he felt the tension leaving Whisper. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to get cleaned up, and get something to eat too. I know you haven¡¯t!¡±

    Whisper heaved an exaggerated sigh at him. ¡°Will do, Dad.¡± She teased, tossing a crumpled page from her notes at him. ¡°Hit the auto-lock on the way out, will ya?¡±

    ¡°You got it, and remember, we have a date tonight.¡± He winked at her roguishly, ruffling her hair on his way out of her room.

    Alone once more, Whisper crossed the room to the kitchenette, and filled the kettle with water. She turned on the stove to heat it while she showered. In spite of how hard she pushed herself, she loved her little studio apartment, even if it did mean living at work. Engram had spared no expense for their staff, trading well appointed housing and plenty of perks for the demands of working in biotech for a living. It was home, the only place she knew. Besides, here she had access to state of the art facilities, equipment she¡¯d never be able to touch in the private sector, or even at the academies. The higher ups said she had a gift, she was their rising star in the field.

    The sensitive nature of the job meant that most of them gave up any real personal life. The solitude suited her just fine, since this life was all she had. Already distracted again from her shower, she sat back down in front of her terminal, and keyed in her personal password. In one corner of the desktop, a folder sat taunting her. Labeled with her name, it contained everything that Engram knew of her, little as that was. She¡¯d read it a thousand times already, but still had more questions than answers. Opening the file, she scrolled through the meagre details again. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Subject: Name unknown, assigning name ¡°Whisper¡± to subject until identity can be discovered.

    DOB: Unknown

    Origin: Unknown

    Appearance: Skin pigmentation unusually pale, appears to be consistent with albinism. Hair coloration, white. Eye coloration is unusual, appears violet, unsure of cause.

    Subject found in secure space, no response to stimuli. Military liaison confirms that subject was alone, unconscious, and appeared deceased. Upon delivery to Engram location Delta, subject regained consciousness. Examining physician reported extreme disorientation, and marked abnormalities in the blood. Possible contaminant?

    She looked up from the document, sitting back in her chair. Would she ever know who she really was? Frustrated for letting these feelings get the best of her again, Whisper closed the file and rose, walking over to the single window. Doctor Martask had always been more than willing to talk to her, to answer her questions, and to support Whisper¡¯s search for her past. So why couldn¡¯t they find anything? How many children with albinism had gone missing? How many families could she belong to?

    Daylight was fading, and daytime staffers were beginning to clear out of the sprawling central parking lot below. Everyone seemed to belong, seemed to have a place at Engram. She couldn¡¯t remember the last time she¡¯d heard of a disagreement or spat between co-workers. It was comforting, in a way, but it unsettled her. The company employed thousands. Like clockwork, Engram Security was waiting to secure the front gates after everyone had departed.

    A sharp whistle from the kettle brought Whisper out of her thoughts, and she turned away from the window. She glanced again at the clock, and hurriedly prepared a cup of hot tea. Raden would have plenty to say to her, both about her lack of cleanliness and her tardiness. Grabbing her id badge, her tea, and her bag, she raced out the door and down the corridor. She pushed the button repeatedly, hoping the elevator would hurry. The doors opened, and she darted inside, nearly flattening a startled intern making rounds with the mail.

    ¡°Excuse me!¡± she blurted out, grabbing the woman¡¯s arm to prevent her from toppling over. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± The intern replied, straightening her armload of folders and paperwork. ¡°Where are you headed?¡±

    ¡°Special projects, please. Sublevel 3. Raden is going to kill me!¡± Whisper answered, jostling her things to avoid dropping them.

    The intern obliged, pressing the correct button, and returned to reading over documents as the elevator opened onto her floor. She waved a hand almost mechanically as she disembarked and headed off to the executive offices. As she departed, a sheet of paper slipped from her arms, but the elevator was already closing. Whisper picked it up, making note that it was for someone on the 4th floor. She was about to tuck it in among her things,  when she realized that it was an image of the location where she¡¯d been found.

    Questions flooded her mind. Why now? What could be happening there after all this time? Quickly trying to suppress her reaction, she folded the sheet and placed it among her paperwork. The last thing she needed would be prying eyes or others getting involved. She silently prayed that the image wouldn¡¯t be missed, and that she wouldn¡¯t be accused of theft. Straightening her posture and putting on her most disarming smile, she left the elevator and entered the lab, raising a hand to wave to Raden where he stood waiting for her.

    ¡°Thank you for gracing me with your presence after all.¡± He smirked at her, pointedly glancing at his watch. ¡°I was beginning to think I¡¯d been stood up!¡±

    ¡°And miss our ¡®date¡¯? Never!¡± She laughed lightly, her eyes sparkling with merriment in spite of her fatigue. ¡°Besides, you¡¯d never stop nagging if we didn¡¯t get this over with. I¡¯m still not sure what you hope to find, Raden. Nightmares aren¡¯t pathogenic, we won¡¯t see anything.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m aware, Whisper, but we have to try. I care too much to let this go on. When was the last time you slept through the night, hmm?¡± Raden sighed softly. It pained him to see her suffer, and he wanted so much to relieve her pain.

    ¡°I get it, you¡¯re worried. It¡¯s not a great time for me either, you know? But how many years has it been since they found me? I don¡¯t even know my own birthday, much less why I¡¯m hearing voices in my sleep.¡± Whisper closed her eyes for a moment, trying to settle herself. Blowing up at her best friend wouldn¡¯t help, he only wanted to see her safe and well. ¡°What are we starting with?¡± She asked, curious in spite of herself.

    ¡°Even though I know Engram has tried, I would like to take another stab at identifying those abnormalities in your bloodwork. It may not be pathogenic, but I don¡¯t think that rules out anything genetic. We can¡¯t look at a family history here, but we can look for things that point to imbalances, or other conditions that affect sleep in particular.¡± Raden explained, readying the vials and syringe for the blood draw.

    ¡°That does make sense.¡± Whisper agreed reluctantly. ¡°It would have been nice of Engram to at least give me the original results. I understand that it was a classified location, and that they can¡¯t give details on where, but keeping my medical records seems silly. It¡¯s not as if a person never sees a doctor or gets sick. Now that I think about it... it has been years since I had those labs done. Anything could have changed by now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m glad you understand, I wouldn¡¯t put you through this if it wasn¡¯t so important. You work so hard. Too hard. You never stop to think of your health or how serious this could be. People do need restful sleep, even you.¡± As they talked, Raden drew the samples and bandaged the draw site. He was certain of what he would find, and struggled to keep his expression neutral.

    Whisper hopped down from the exam table where she¡¯d been sitting, and picked up her files from the counter where she¡¯d tossed them. She took them to one of the workstations and sat down, careful to keep the new image out of sight. Entering her password, she brought up her work on the virus strain they had been working with. It still had not been identified, but she was pleased with her progress in being able to neutralize it. As with so many of the projects she had been involved in, this virulent strain could wreak havoc were it ever to escape the lab. Engram existed to prevent that scenario, to protect the world from pathogens and other biological threats. As she became lost in her work, she absently waved to Raden on his way out of the lab.

    <hr>

    After leaving Whisper in the lab, Raden¡¯s heart raced. He walked briskly through the now-deserted hallways to the elevator and once inside, turned a key in what the public viewed as a maintenance panel. He quickly pressed the button and locked the panel again. The elevator began to descend once more, to a lab that very few knew existed. Zeta Lab was strictly ¡°need to know¡±, and the people aware of it included the President of the United States. Fortunately for Raden¡¯s purposes, those people also believed that it had been shuttered years ago, a belief which Engram allowed to continue without correction. It served them well to operate off the grid at times. Years of loyal service and ground-breaking work had earned him the right to not only learn of Zeta Lab, but to be permitted to access it.

    Flicking on the light as he entered his office, Raden immediately sent a communication:

    It is done. Results to follow.

    He shut down the terminal, and began preparing slides for examination and testing. It would all come down to this, and the thought of it was overwhelming. Trying to push aside his thoughts, and the implications, Raden slid the first of the slides into the state-of-the-art electron microscope. He removed a second vial from cold storage, and prepared a sample of it for examination. As he had expected, and hoped, the samples matched. After 12 long years, it was finally happening. Further tests would be needed, and Raden moved with a purpose and urgency as he began a more specific series of tests on the samples. He had decisions to make which he knew would be critical, and that once made, could not be undone. The time for concealment was nearly at an end.

 Chapter 2

    Striding purposefully down the corridor to the Special Projects lab, Troy Kerrick was lost in his thoughts. The board would be meeting later today, and would be expecting the results of his and Whisper¡¯s work on the supervirus project. The pathogen still had yet to be named, and he idly wondered what they could call it during the presentation. While his ego momentarily floated the idea of naming it for himself, he decided having his name associated with a killer supervirus might not be the best way to score a date.

    As if you¡¯ll ever score one! Troy thought to himself, chuckling softly. You¡¯re in your 30¡¯s, a bachelor, and a huge nerd. Maybe a little fame couldn¡¯t hurt after all.

    Troy keyed in his password for the lock, and the lab door slid open. All of his musings vanished as he looked at the scene before him. Whisper lay on the floor, her papers, and much of the contents of her desk strewn across the floor. Her chair lay on its side, and the monitor for her workstation was on the floor, the screen shattered.

    ¡°What the hell?!¡± He shouted, running to Whisper¡¯s side. ¡°How could anyone have gotten in here?¡± His mind raced, trying to make sense of what he was seeing. He pulled out his phone, and hit the speed dial for Raden. ¡°Raden, get down here, NOW! We have a problem!¡±

    Whisper stirred beneath his hand as he tried to rouse her. She groaned, and after briefly attempting to sit up, slumped back to the floor. Her head pounded, and there were several cuts on her arm where glass from the monitor had cut her when she fell on it.  ¡°Wha... where am I..I.¡± she stammered. She didn¡¯t remember falling asleep, and she was disoriented. The feeling terrified her. ¡°T..Troy?..¡± She looked up at the man next to her, her lab partner of several years.

    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s me. You look like hell, woman! What happened here? Were you attacked?¡± Troy questioned her, trying not to overwhelm her.

    ¡°Uhh...thanks? I...I don¡¯t know...I think I fell asleep, but I don¡¯t remember.¡± She said, beginning to become more aware of her surroundings.

    Raden arrived running through the door, barely keying in his password in time to avoid slamming into it. His eyes widened in shock, and he went to Whisper, carefully avoiding the broken glass and debris. He looked her over with a practiced eye, looking for any life-threatening or serious injuries. She seemed ok, if shaken and upset.

    ¡°Whisper, what happened?¡± He asked as he collected some first aid supplies from the kit in the lab. ¡°Anything you can tell us will help.¡±

    ¡°I told Troy, I don¡¯t know..I think I fell asleep. I was working, and now¡­¡± she trailed off. Her eyes went to the mess around her, and she realized the contents of the folder that had spilled. She tried to reach for it, but Raden prevented her.

    ¡°No. You¡¯re not going to even consider trying to clean this right now. You are the concern here. Then we can worry about the rest.¡± Raden told her, leaving no room for argument.

    Troy had gotten to his feet and was beginning to pick up some of her things. As he collected the papers, he froze as he came to one particular sheet of paper. The unmistakable [TOP SECRET] stamp glared at him from the top of the sheet. It appeared to be a satellite image. He glanced from the paper to Whisper, but she didn¡¯t seem to notice. He prided himself on his photographic memory, and he committed the image to his mind. What was she doing with something like this? She had Special Projects access, but Top Secret Clearance? Not wanting to call attention to having seen it, he placed the sheet back into the file along with Whisper¡¯s other documents. He would need to speak to her about this as soon as possible.

    Raden helped Whisper to her feet slowly, and she groaned again as she tried to straighten. He motioned to Troy to bring her chair, and together they eased her into it. ¡°Are you able to sit? Is this ok?¡± He asked, his concern evident on his face.

    ¡°I think so...I think I¡¯m ok now, if you don¡¯t count my skull trying to explode.¡± Whisper placed a hand on her head, wincing at the severity of the pain. ¡°I think I hit my head, it hurts horribly.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s have a look.¡± Raden answered, checking her eyes for signs of concussion. ¡°I don¡¯t see any indication of fracture, but we¡¯ll need an X-ray to be sure. If there was an intruder, they may have struck you.¡± It will not be necessary, he thought to himself.

    ¡°Raden¡­.I don¡¯t think that¡¯s going to be a concern. I thought that perhaps someone had tried to steal the project, or had broken in, but look¡­¡± He turned the monitor so that Raden could see it along with him. The screen displayed multiple views of the security feed, playing on a loop of the overnight hours. ¡°No one was in here, but God¡­¡±

    Raden watched in silence as the scene played out. Whisper had drifted off, her head eventually resting on her arms. A short time later, they could see her begin to move in her sleep, seemingly disturbed. She was thrown backward in her chair, and then had fallen as the desk chair wheeled backwards. The monitor had been shoved off the desk, along with her files and supplies as she flailed. Her head struck the corner of her desk, and she had slumped to the floor. He returned his attention to Whisper, and found her watching him.

    ¡°Whisper. It was a nightmare. Another nightmare.¡± Raden told her, the frustration evident in his voice. ¡°This is becoming dangerous.¡±

    ¡°Nightmares? Am I missing something here?¡± Troy asked, his gaze moving between Raden and Whisper. ¡°What aren¡¯t you two telling me?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Troy.¡± Whisper told him apologetically. ¡°I¡¯ve been having these dreams, awful ones. I hear voices in them. I get headaches, and it¡¯s been hard to communicate. Sometimes I feel so¡­ out of place. It¡¯s been happening for a while, I just..I didn¡¯t think it was that important. Nightmares suck, but people have them all the time, you know?¡±

    ¡°People don¡¯t black out all the time and hit their head, Whisper. Raden¡¯s right to be concerned. I assume you¡¯ve had it checked out? Troy asked, directing the latter question to Raden.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been trying to figure this out, but nothing has shown up. We¡¯ve tried scans, blood work, an MRI, there¡¯s nothing physically wrong with her. I was on my way down to let her know the results of the labs I ran when you called. No toxins, no contaminants, no sign of physical illness. She¡¯s healthy as can be.¡± Raden answered, pulling the printout from his pocket. ¡°Still, it¡¯s getting worse, and now it¡¯s gotten her injured. I believe there is something more to this.¡± He didn¡¯t look at Troy, instead keeping his eyes on Whisper. There was more. There was potentially so much more. A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°I see....¡± Troy stated, taking in the facts of the case. He came to stand beside Raden, glancing over the printout. ¡°Well, if you¡¯ve ruled out the physical, then it may be time to look at the mental aspect. Stress? Trauma? Overworked?¡± He queried, glancing back over at Whisper.

    ¡°This project has been challenging.¡± Whisper admitted. ¡°But this started before we got the first virus sample. Trauma...well, I still don¡¯t know my past, Troy. There¡¯s a hole in me, so much I want to know. I have family out there somewhere, people who probably stopped looking for me years ago. But is that enough to cause this?¡±

    ¡°Possibly, it¡¯s hard to say. Just please promise me one thing. I want both of you to keep me up to speed on this.¡± Troy said, keeping his voice level. He would not let them see his disappointment at being kept in the dark on something so serious. ¡°I consider both of you friends. Hell, we spend so much time working down here, maybe we¡¯re family. Let me help.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Troy, you¡¯re right. I told her we should tell someone, but she¡¯s stubborn, as you well know.¡± Raden favored Whisper with a smile he didn¡¯t quite feel. ¡°If you have any insight, or ideas, we¡¯re happy to have your help.¡±

    ¡°I should have told you too, Troy. I didn¡¯t want anyone else worrying over me. Raden is already such a mother hen, always telling me to take care of myself.¡± Whisper quipped, returning a pained smile. ¡°I appreciate your help, and seriously, thank you for caring. It means a lot.¡± She added.

    ¡°Whisper, we should get you cleaned up. The board meets in a couple hours, and if you walk in looking like that, we¡¯re toast¡± Troy said, sighing as he finished sweeping up the glass. ¡°I¡¯ll put in a work order for IT to get you a new workstation, and I¡¯ll see you upstairs, yeah?¡±

    ¡°You got it!¡± Whisper said, a little excitement creeping into her voice in spite of her injuries. ¡°We¡¯re going to get that funding, I know we are!¡±

    Raden watched until Troy had left, and turned his attention back to Whisper. He went to her side, and lifted her bandaged arm. Without hesitation, he removed one of the bandages, which were already unnecessary. ¡°We need to talk, Whisper. There is more that I have learned, and there is a lot at stake. Have you noticed this before?¡± He asked, indicating the place where only a short time ago, there had been an angry red gash.

    ¡°Yes..of course...but I don¡¯t understand. It¡¯s always been that way for as long as I can remember.  Dr. Martask thinks it¡¯s something I was exposed to when they found me. She says that if someone manufactured something that could alter genetics, it might be able to change my immune system like that. It makes sense, doesn¡¯t it? If something like that exists, it would explain why Engram and the government don¡¯t want anyone near there.¡±

    ¡°A reasonable explanation, but not the correct one.¡± Raden told her matter-of-factly.

    ¡°What? What did you find?¡± She asked, suddenly uncertain if she wanted to know. Something in his tone told her that it was serious.

    ¡°Whisper, you do not carry the gene for albinism. Nor do you suffer from the effects of genetic experimentation or mutation. There is no easy way to tell you this. You are not human. I know this is difficult to accept, much less process.¡± Raden explained.

    ¡°Not..human. Raden, are you insane? I¡¯m a person! Of course I¡¯m human!¡± Confusion was plain on Whisper¡¯s face as she tried to understand her friend¡¯s meaning. ¡°This isn¡¯t a time to be funny, I have the board meeting, and onboarding for the new project. This is serious, I¡¯ve worked my whole life for this!¡±

    ¡°I understand your reluctance to accept this, Whisper. But have I ever lied to you? Have I ever, in the time we have spent together, misled or deceived you?¡± He asked, taking one of her hands in his.

    ¡°No, Raden, but this is crazy. If I¡¯m not human, what am I? Who am I? This doesn¡¯t make any sense.¡± She looked into his eyes, hoping to see any sign that he was having fun at her expense, or to see him laugh or smile.

    ¡°It will, in time, I promise you. There is much I still have to tell you, but not yet. Not until I am more certain of the facts. Please trust me, tell me you will let me help you.¡± He urged, an uncharacteristic, nearly pleading tone in his voice.

    ¡°Of course, Raden. All of my life, it¡¯s all you¡¯ve ever done. Help me, counsel me, keep me from doing the next stupid thing I would have done. I still think you might have taken a blow to your own head, but I know you¡¯re not lying. I know you believe this is true. Raden, I trust you with my life, and more than that....¡± A hint of color came to her cheeks and she broke eye contact with him. ¡°I love you.¡± It was barely more than a whisper, but he could hear it plainly. She silently cursed herself for her timing, for saying this now, when nothing made sense. Now you¡¯ve done it, you IDIOT! She thought. Why did you say that? He just told you that you¡¯re not even human, and you love him?

    ¡°I know.¡± Raden said quietly. ¡°I have always known how you feel, Whisper. It¡¯s complicated...but I am man enough to tell you that I have always shared those feelings. Improper, and even as impossible as it is, light help me, I do.¡± He placed an arm around her shoulders, guiding her to the door. ¡°That too, is a matter we have to discuss. There are more pressing matters though, and we will need to approach them carefully. You don¡¯t yet understand what we face.¡±

    Whisper was shaken. Always known? Raden¡¯s reply confused her, and she tried to understand what he could have meant. They had known each other for 12 years, since she had been found. He had never expressed interest in her, and she had never allowed herself to speak of it to him. He was her best friend, co-worker, lab partner. Together they had been Engram¡¯s rising stars, they had done work together generating billions of dollars in revenue for the company. How could he have known when she had only admitted it to herself right now? She remained silent as they reached the door, and headed for the elevator.She had always been so self-assured, so confident. Even with all that she was missing, not knowing where she came from, she had never doubted herself. Until now.

    ¡°I will come to your apartment tonight. There is something I want to try, a theory if you will. I believe I know how to stop the nightmares.¡± Raden told her, reaching for the elevator call button.

    ¡°Is there anything else you want to drop on me?¡± She asked him, raising her eyebrows in surprise. ¡°Maybe you won the lottery? Maybe you casually solved global warming? World hunger?¡± She couldn¡¯t help but smile, even as the storm of emotions continued to rage inside her.

    ¡°No, I think I¡¯m finished, for now.¡± He smiled at her, the first genuine happiness he had felt in a long while reaching his expression. If he was correct, he could finally help her, finally protect her. It would confirm for him what he believed to be happening, and what was causing the nightmares. The thought filled him with happiness. No, there was no maybe. He knew. He would prove it. ¡°No promises though.¡± He added, knowing it would exasperate her.

    ¡°You¡¯re hopeless, Raden. Hopeless.¡± She laughed lightly, enjoying the moment. ¡°I may not have any idea what¡¯s going on here, but I know we¡¯ll get through it. We always do.¡±

    Whisper and Raden stepped out on the 2nd floor, where her living quarters were housed. She left him at the elevator and made her way to her apartment. Her mind raced, still unsure of what to believe, and what it all meant. Her heart warred with her mind, it knew the truth of his words as she tried to deny them to herself. Beyond this day, she knew her life would be forever changed. It was thrilling, it was terrifying, and it was true.

 Chapter 3

    Outside the tall windows of the board room, the afternoon light faded into darkness as the sun slipped below the city skyline. The city lights came to life, thousands of glistening points in the distance like a galaxy fallen to earth. Dr. Aldrich Saxe sat at the head of the long conference table, his arms folded casually on the table as he listened to his two employees present before the board. The meeting had been underway for several hours now, as they turned from presenting to opening the floor for questions. He knew there would be many. They had simultaneously discovered a deadly pathogen, and the means to contain and neutralize it. It was a field fraught with ethical concerns and issues, and many felt that the study of these things was in and of itself far too dangerous. Still, Dr. Saxe had founded Engram to prevent those worst case scenarios. He saw the company as something of a beacon of hope in a world of fragile lives. His expression did not betray the pride he felt, that his team was once again on the cusp of a massive breakthrough.

    Whisper and Troy stood before a white board, explaining the virus and what it was capable of, as well as showing slides of the antigen being introduced, and the immune response they were able to trigger. Troy was in his element, making the information digestible to C-Suite executives of the board of investors. In addition to the antigen, he explained, they had also been able to produce a robust t-cell response targeting the virus, with the ability to neutralize it entirely. Heads nodded approvingly around the table, as Troy introduced the next speaker.

    Ephrim Xerxes stood and joined Troy at the white board. He stood for a moment, arranging his papers and preparing his slides. The board would be pleased, he knew, and he allowed himself a smile as he began to present the numbers. He was met with shocked expressions, and calls for additional verification, but he knew he needed none. The estimates for developing the vaccine were solid, and he was all too aware of the eagerness of world governments to avoid another global pandemic. The last one had brought the world¡¯s powers to their knees, a position they refused to find themselves in again. Unusually for these sorts of meetings, there were no signs of anyone nodding off, or losing interest when the financial numbers were being addressed.

    As the final concerns were answered, the board voted unanimously to fund Engram¡¯s research, and development through Xerxes completely, an investment that would pay off handsomely. Whisper was exhausted, and struggled to focus. She shook herself out of her thoughts as someone was offering a handshake.

    ¡°Congratulations, Whisper!¡± Dr. Naria Martask said brightly. ¡°Is there anything you can¡¯t do?¡±

    ¡°Plenty, Doctor, I promise you. I can¡¯t even stop myself from working long enough to relax!¡± Whisper returned the woman¡¯s gracious smile and handshake. ¡°Anything new?¡± She asked hopefully.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid not, but don¡¯t give up hope. If you can make a breakthrough like this one, we¡¯re going to find your answers.¡± She squeezed Whisper¡¯s hand reassuringly as she spoke. She needed no elaboration to know that the woman still wanted to understand her past. Dr. Martask had been the doctor called to the scene on behalf of Engram when Whisper had been found. She had been the first to examine her, and had been working ever since to help in any way she could. ¡°Get some rest now, and celebrate a job well done.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best.¡± Whisper replied, waving to Dr. Martask as she filtered out of the room with the other board members and began to mill around. Voices droned as groups stood around discussing the meeting and other small talk. Troy was still packing up the presentation materials when he noticed her sitting back down at the far end of the table. The room was nearly empty, and he saw his chance.

    ¡°You were awesome tonight!¡± Troy began, coming over to join her. He didn¡¯t want to be too direct, especially on such a special occasion. ¡°You had them eating off the palm of your hand.¡± He smiled at her, proud of what they had accomplished.

    ¡°You weren¡¯t so bad yourself, Troy. They love you! You always know how to make the science geek stuff approachable, and I think they appreciate that.¡± She smiled back, but raised a hand to her mouth to stifle a yawn. ¡°I¡¯m exhausted, let¡¯s get out of here.¡± She said, standing again to leave.

    ¡°Whisper, wait. I wanted to talk to you about something.¡± He told her, gesturing for her to sit again. ¡°It¡¯s about earlier, when we found you in the lab.¡±

    Whisper sat back down, her stomach tightening as she did so. She had managed not to think about it during the meeting, but now, the same dread returned, along with Raden¡¯s words. You are not human. His words had been so casual, a simple statement of fact. But they echoed now as she wondered what Troy wanted to discuss.

    ¡°What is it, Troy?¡± She asked hesitantly.

    ¡°Your files had fallen to the floor, and I saw something.¡± He began, glancing back over his shoulder to be certain there was no one within earshot. ¡°There was an image, marked Top Secret... What is it? You don¡¯t have that clearance, and if you¡¯re in some kind of trouble, I want to help. I told you, don¡¯t shut me out of this.¡±

    ¡°The truth is, I don¡¯t know. I was on my way to the lab yesterday and it fell out of the mail one of the interns had with her. I think it was being sent up to Mr. Saxe. Troy, it¡¯s where they found me. I know the risks, but I have to know what¡¯s going on. That site is treated like Area 51, they won¡¯t talk about it, or even acknowledge it¡¯s real. Nobody will say why I was there, much less why I can¡¯t remember anything.¡± She sighed in frustration. She had been searching for so long for any clue as to who she was, and where her family could be.

    ¡°Fair enough, Whisper, but you know they¡¯re going to find that document missing right? You can¡¯t just keep it. They¡¯ll trace it, and you¡¯re going to be in the hell of a lot of trouble when they do. You need to return it. Szostak isn¡¯t going to take it kindly.¡±

    ¡°I knoooow¡± she said, nearly whining. ¡°Trouble loves to find me. I can¡¯t exactly just march in and drop it on the desk, you know. I have to get it up there discreetly.¡± Whisper held her head in both hands, feeling overwhelmed by it all. She was out of her league with all of the secrets and goings on at Engram. She didn¡¯t want any of this. ¡°Please don¡¯t say anything to anyone. Give me time to think. Raden will help me come up with something.¡±

    ¡°We will help you come up with something.¡± Troy corrected her. ¡°Same team, remember? And hey, I looked at it too, so if they send you to the firing squad, I¡¯m coming with you.¡± He laughed, giving her arm a squeeze. He remembered too late that she¡¯d been injured, but she didn¡¯t pull her arm back. ¡°Sorry! I almost forgot about your arm. How is it?¡±

    ¡°Oh it¡¯s ok, don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Whisper replied lightly. ¡°Nothing a few painkillers couldn¡¯t fix. I didn¡¯t even feel it.¡± She was glad she had remembered to replace the bandage that Raden had removed. That was not a conversation she was prepared to have with Troy. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here, ok? I think they want to lock up.¡± She nodded toward the door where the security staff were approaching.

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s. I¡¯m wiped from this and I want to get a bite to eat before I crash. You coming?¡± Troy asked, getting up to leave.

    ¡°Thanks, but no. I¡¯m going home and going to bed. Food can wait!¡± She smiled tiredly. It was no lie, all she wanted was to rest. Raden would be there soon, waiting for her. She wondered for the hundredth time if giving him access had been a mistake.

    The two left, and entered the now dark hallway, long deserted by the other attendees. Security was doing their final checks as the elevator closed, taking them back to their apartments. For reasons she couldn¡¯t quite place, the sight unnerved Whisper. The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    <hr>

    As she approached her apartment door, Whisper could already sense that Raden was inside. She could always tell when he was near, and had never thought to question why. They were just connected in that way, and it felt natural to her. She keyed her code for entry, and walked inside. Raden was seated with his back to her in one of the chairs, pouring over documents while he waited for her to come home.

    ¡°I see you brought a little light reading.¡± She joked, looking at the papers spread across the coffee table, the end tables, and even part of the floor. ¡°Anything I can help with?¡±

    ¡°No, thank you Whisper, just reviewing reports for a new project. Sara was kind enough to drop it on my desk, along with a note from upstairs that this is to take priority over everything else. I would have appreciated a little more lead time, but you know how it is. Dr. Saxe wants what he wants, and if he feels something is important, he¡¯s seldom wrong. However, this evening, even this will have to wait.¡± Raden stood and began collecting the papers, placing them back into their file folders and then into a briefcase. ¡°Right now, regardless of what anyone else feels, you are still my top priority and I won¡¯t change that.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Raden. For this, and for everything. I haven¡¯t been able to focus all day, all I can think about is what you said earlier, and I can¡¯t get my head around it. Somehow, deep down, it fits, but that still doesn¡¯t help it seem real. This is my home, it¡¯s all I know. Where will I go if you¡¯re right? How could I stay here if anyone learned something like that about me?¡± The questions came pouring out, so many questions she needed answers to.

    ¡°I understand, and I know what you feel more than any other. You¡¯re afraid, and you have a right to be. Please remember, you are not alone, and you will not be. I will not leave you, and I will help you. I am sorry that you have to experience this. It is, by far, the most difficult time we have been through, and I¡¯m afraid it will become more difficult still.¡± Raden motioned for her to join him on the sofa, bringing with him a single piece of paper that he hadn¡¯t put away.

    ¡°That isn¡¯t very encouraging, Raden. After the way the morning went, and the board meeting, I was hoping for some rest, but maybe I should make some coffee instead. Something tells me it¡¯s going to be a long night.¡± Whisper met his gaze, the seriousness of his expression confirming her words.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s alright.¡± Raden replied, making room for her beside him. ¡°It will be more clear once I have explained. I want you to rest, especially now that I have an answer to those nightmares. I believe you will sleep through the night for the first time since you¡¯ve been here. I just need you to see this.¡± He passed her the sheet, allowing her to take in what was printed there.

    As she took the paper from Raden, Whisper¡¯s hand trembled. The gravity of his mood was unsettling, she had not seen him this way before. She looked at the two images at the top, nearly identical, clearly microscopic views of the same substance. Beneath the images were the data, and as an expert in her field, she needed no explanation to understand that the values given were for blood panels. Both contained unidentified fields, values that had no entry. Highlighted in both images were cells she did not recognize, smaller than lymphocytes, and a pale blue color that did not occur in any life form she had ever studied. She looked up from the paper to Raden, again meeting his eyes with a questioning glance.

    ¡°What is this? What are these samples?¡± She questioned him, though she had a feeling what his reply might be.

    ¡°Blood samples, Whisper. Yours, and mine.¡± Raden replied, betraying none of the emotion he felt beneath the surface. ¡°I can prove that you are not of this world, because neither am I.¡±

    Stunned into silence, all Whisper could do was stare at the images.

    "We''re not related, are we?" She asked, a hint of embarrassment creeping into her tone. She thought back to their earlier conversation, to the things she had said to Raden. She looked up at him, feeling a little foolish that this was the first thing to come to mind.

    "No, we are not family." Raden reassured her. "I would have made a far different reply to you had that been the case. We are of the same race, nothing more." Almost nothing more..he corrected himself in his thoughts. What would she feel if she knew..no, when she knows. "But please, I know you have questions, and I will do my best to address them."

    "Raden, how? How do you not look like me? If we are the same, shouldn''t you look like you''ve never heard of sunlight either?" A wry smile played at the edge of Whisper''s lips at her own remark. "You could be anyone, a janitor, a pizza guy¡­"

    In answer to her question, Raden stood then, turning to ensure the window was securely shaded. He walked to her terminal, and keyed off the security to her apartment, ensuring there were no operational cameras. He returned to her then, and sat, closing his eyes. As Whisper watched in shock, a soft, eerie glow emanated from Raden, bathing the room in pale, otherworldly light. His appearance began to transform, his dark hair fading as though exposed to bleach. His skin took on the familiar marble white hue, and when he opened his eyes, they glowed an emerald green that would never be seen in nature. Not the nature of Earth.

    Raden reached out and took her hand, interlacing his fingers with hers. Whisper looked down at their hands, their skin now indistinguishable. A tear escaped and rolled down her cheek as the realization came to her that she was no longer alone. She was no longer a curiosity to be studied, or the only person to look like her. For the first time she could remember, Whisper felt what she had so desperately longed to feel. She belonged.

    Moments passed as they sat together. Raden didn''t speak, but instead moved closer, pulling Whisper into his arms. She would speak when she was ready. He wanted only one thing, for her to be safe. Her shoulders shook as she cried into his chest, overwhelmed by the flood of shock, as the life she knew and understood was stripped away.

    "My heart, there is more that I need to explain, but I don''t feel that it would be wise to continue. I don''t want to see you upset this way, and I hope I was not mistaken to wait so long." Raden told her softly. "Can you trust me? Will you let me decide when the time is right?"

    Whisper nodded, and raised her head to look at him again. Her amethyst eyes were rimmed with red, and the pain in them was evident. She lifted a hand to his face, almost afraid that she was dreaming, that she was still alone. She studied his face, the same Raden, but now completely alien.

    "Thank you." He told her. "You are safe with me, I promise you. Do you think you are able to rest?"

    "I feel so¡­lost. I have what I want more than anything, but it doesn''t seem real. I need time¡­" She answered. "I feel so drained, as if the life is just pouring out of me."

    "Then sleep. I will be here, to protect you while you rest."

    As Whisper lay down, the last thing she saw was Raden transformed again, to the man she had always known. She drifted off as exhaustion quickly overtook her.

    <hr>

    Whisper...are you there? Help me¡­

    Whisper crawled through the darkness¡­ terror gripped her as she tried to see ahead of her. It clung to her, her skin damp and cold as the voice echoed again.

    He comes...please help me, Whisper.

    Red points appeared in the tunnel, growing larger as she got closer. They coalesced into eyes, staring into her soul as something took hold of her. She tried to get free of it, gasping in short ragged breaths¡­.

    <hr>

    Raden watched as Whisper slept, keeping a vigil at her side. He could feel it now, as she entered into the nightmare. She moaned in her sleep, tossing in bed as she fought something unseen. It was time.

    Standing from his chair, he went to the bed and sat beside her. He placed a hand gently on her head, wiping away the perspiration beaded there. Closing his eyes, he reached out to her mind, weaving a shield of light around her consciousness. His hand took on a near translucent appearance as the light radiated from it.

    Whisper calmed beneath his touch, Raden¡¯s power and presence shielding her from the dream. A grim smile came to his lips as the truth of the situation was now certain. She was awakening.

    <hr>

    Light blinded her as the red eyes blinked out of existence. She fell to the ground, bloody, fighting to bring air back into her lungs. She raised a shaking hand to her throat, where...it...had held her in its grasp like a ragdoll. In the distance, she could hear a laugh. It left her chilled to the bone where she knelt, unable to move.

    "You cannot hide." It mocked her.

    Then it was gone.

 Chapter 4

    On the 5th floor of Engram¡¯s Onyx facility, a hum of activity belied the early hour of the day. It was said that SecOps never slept, a fact that was borne out as the night shift finished their reports and began to filter out of the offices.

    ¡°CALERO! VALENTINE! In here NOW!¡± a voice commanded, belonging to the one man most tried to avoid encountering.

    The two agents entered as quickly as they could, but narrowly prevented themselves from running. David Szostak did not tolerate running in the office, or disorderly conduct in general.

    ¡°Sir!¡± Calero said, saluting sharply. Valentine saluted as well, and both stood silent as they waited for acknowledgement.

    Accustomed to having his orders followed, and to having them wait on his word, Szostak continued to review the report in his hand before finally looking up at the two before him. His eyes moved from one to the other, and then back to the paperwork.

    ¡°Would someone care to explain how it is possible that we have a 7 hour gap in last night¡¯s footage on 2?¡± he demanded, waiting expectantly.

    ¡°It was manually done from the terminal in Ms. Whisper¡¯s apartment, Sir. The authorization codes were in order, so no alarms were triggered.¡± Calero replied, keeping her eyes straight ahead, and her hands folded behind her back.

    ¡°To add to that, Sir, it wasn¡¯t her auth code, it was Raden¡¯s. Far as we can tell, the code was entered after he arrived there yesterday evening, and the system was brought back online this morning.¡± Valentine reported, consulting his notes, and then looking up again from the paperwork.

    ¡°Thank you. Saxe had better get his people under control before they get themselves and the rest of us killed. I¡¯ll take it from here, you¡¯re dismissed.¡± Szostak replied, standing from behind the desk. ¡°Good work. Both of you.¡± He added, nodding to his agents. Engram SpecOps division had been his command for 4 years, and these were two of his best. He prided himself on running a tight ship, and protecting the facility and its occupants. Gathering the files from his desk, he followed his agents out the door. It was time to pay a visit to Mr. Saxe.

    <hr>

    As Calero and Valentine exited the elevator on the 2nd floor, they nearly collided with a hurried Troy Kerrick. He apologized profusely, but jammed the button for the 4th floor several times impatiently. He tried to keep his composure as he realized that the other occupant was Szostak, the last person he ever wanted asking him questions.

    ¡°In a hurry there, son?¡± Szostak asked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°I don¡¯t think this thing will move any faster.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, sorry, Sir. Late for a meeting with Saxe, and he¡¯ll have my hide if I don¡¯t get up there.¡± Troy managed, trying to keep his voice level. Thankfully, Saxe had a reputation for being abrupt when he was kept waiting, and the staff knew better than to be tardy when summoned to his office. He was relieved that he could be truthful at least that far, and that it wouldn¡¯t rouse suspicion.

    ¡°I see. I¡¯m headed there myself, maybe you¡¯ll be off the hook while I¡¯ve got his attention.¡± Szostak chuckled, picturing the all-too-common scene of Saxe lighting up one intern or another for some misdeed. ¡°Anything I need to know?¡±

    ¡°No, sir, I don¡¯t think so.¡± Troy answered. You definitely do not need to know this! He thought, wondering how he would protect his closest friends this time. ¡°Just missing a shipment for Special Projects, and nobody seems to have any idea whose lab it ended up in.¡± He sighed in exasperation. The shipment was indeed missing, but so were Whisper and Raden. Whatever it took, he would buy them some time.

    ¡°Again?¡± Szostak asked. ¡°Whoever screwed this one up better pray they get those materials to the right place, or that they had clearance to open the package. These people sure don¡¯t make my work easy!¡± He shook his head in frustration.

    The elevator opened onto the 4th floor, and Troy walked alongside Szostak, grateful that he wouldn¡¯t be the first one in the door with bad news. He nodded to the secretary, and took a seat in the reception area outside the executive suites to wait for Mr. Saxe to be available. Szostak strode across the room without checking in, and after a brief knock, walked straight into the office unannounced. Troy could only stare after him, unsure whether to be afraid or impressed.

    <hr>

    Szostak walked briskly into the office, but stopped short. Raden sat across the desk from Dr. Saxe, looking mildly irritated at the interruption. Saxe himself folded his hands on his desk, waiting to learn what could possess the man to barge in unannounced.

    ¡°Good day, David, is there something you need?¡± Dr. Saxe addressed him casually, glancing only briefly back at Raden. ¡°Had I known you were coming, I would have been able to provide more privacy.¡±

    Szostak glared at Raden and then at Dr. Saxe, angry at finding the very subject of his visit sitting before him. ¡°As a matter of fact there is, Doctor. I need you to get your people to respect protocol. How the hell am I supposed to do my job if this guy feels entitled to shut down security whenever he damn well pleases?!¡± He raised his voice, stabbing a shaking finger in Raden¡¯s direction. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on here, hell, I never do, and I¡¯m supposed to prevent you all from getting your crazy asses killed!¡±

    ¡°I apologize, Sir.¡± Raden said, spreading his hands in a conciliatory manner. ¡°I assure you, I didn¡¯t make the decision lightly, and I was already planning to make a full report. I was about to begin, but it is not my decision whether or not Dr. Saxe would like this disclosed. I had hoped to make that determination before coming to see you.¡± he explained.

    ¡°David, I know you¡¯re a very busy man, but if you could come back this afternoon, I would be better prepared to answer your concerns and questions.¡± Dr. Saxe said, standing from behind the desk. ¡°The nature of our work is not always conducive to best practices, but please understand, I do value your expertise, and I will see that you are briefed.¡±

    ¡°Fine. Suit yourselves. But don¡¯t think I¡¯ll let this go. Believe it or not, I do care for the people in this hell hole, and I aim to see that you all stay in one piece. See you after lunch, Doctor.¡± Szotak turned and left, shaking his head in frustration.

    <hr>

    ¡°This had better be worth it, Raden. Szostak is royally pissed, and I won¡¯t hear the end of it. I know you well enough to know that you wouldn¡¯t pull a stunt like this if you didn¡¯t have a damned good reason.¡± Saxe said, returning to his chair.

    ¡°While I don¡¯t have all of the answers, you need to know the situation at this point. I am uncertain how much time we have.¡± Raden answered, glancing down to refer to his notes. ¡°Aldrich, this concerns Whisper, as well as everyone in the facility.¡±

    ¡°Spit it out, Raden, what have you gotten yourself, and the rest of us into? You know full well that I have need to know clearance, and that I can and will ensure that the information reaches whoever necessary.¡± Dr. Saxe kept his eyes on Raden, unnerved by the uncharacteristic hesitation. He knew the man to be one of the most brilliant minds in the facility, no, the most brilliant. It wasn¡¯t like Raden to mince words.

    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best, Aldrich. As I informed you through my message a couple of nights ago, I acquired samples of Whisper¡¯s blood, and I ran some further tests. As you have also been made aware, she has been troubled by disturbances in her sleep that have never had an explanation, until now. Before I continue, I¡¯m going to need to ask you to violate further protocol, and to probably further enrage SecOps.¡± Raden stood, placing his file folders on the desk. ¡°I¡¯m afraid that I have some information to give you that you would be more inclined to believe a demonstration of, rather than an explanation.¡±

    Needing no further prompting, Dr. Saxe rose and went to the door, locking it securely. He entered his personal code into the lock, ensuring that he was the only person able to release the lock from the inside. He returned to the desk, pressing a button to lower the steel shades over the large windows that made up one wall of his suite.

    ¡°You need not worry about anyone listening, or watching, my office is a SCIF, I field calls from the President here.¡± He explained, taking his seat again.

    ¡°Very well, I trust your judgement, Aldrich.¡± Raden said. As his long-time friend¡¯s eyes widened in very real fear, Raden transformed.

    ¡°The hell?!¡± Dr. Saxe shouted, getting to his feet again as he fought hard not to reach for a weapon.

    ¡°There is no easy explanation. You are aware that Whisper was found in a location where it was not possible for a civilian to be. At your direction, she was brought here, presumably deceased, and was subject to examination. Engram has records of what the examining physician saw, and Doctor Martask has worked closely with Whisper all of these years, trying to understand the events of that day.¡± Raden began, keeping his distance, and keeping his tone level.

    ¡°Yes, Raden, I know these things. I¡¯m waiting for the part where you¡¯re a damned...whatever you are!¡± Doctor Saxe exclaimed, unable to keep his voice from shaking.

    ¡°Doctor, please. I will not harm you, I have never done wrong to anyone here, nor would I. My appearance is different, but I am the same man you have known for the last 12 years. I am trying to get to the point, but context is necessary, and I would appreciate it if you would stop looking at me as though I had killed someone.¡± Raden sighed, and sat himself, hoping the gesture would help ease the tension.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Raden. I didn¡¯t mean to be disrespectful. I just don¡¯t understand how you have been here more than a decade, with absolutely no sign that you were anyone but the most brilliant son of a bitch I¡¯d ever met. Now it makes more sense.¡± Saxe returned to his chair, trying to settle his nerves.

    ¡°I understand how upsetting this is. It is why I chose to show you, rather than merely tell you. Something tells me you would not have believed me, even though you know I have never been untruthful.¡± Raden continued. ¡°If there was not so much at stake, I would not have chosen now, or in this way, to come forward. Now to the point I have been trying to reach. Whisper is one of my people. I apologize that I cannot go into detail on that at this time, especially surrounding the circumstances that brought us here. Quite simply, I followed her. I did not arrive immediately, and when I did, no one was there. When I traced her here, I applied for work, allowing me to remain at her side. However, I realized that something had happened to her. She had lost her memory, and she had been altered. What you do need to know is that I have identified the source of the nightmares she has been suffering, and that it presents a serious threat. For now, that threat is contained, but I do not yet have enough information to determine when, or if, that will change.¡±

    ¡°What kind of a threat? What are we dealing with?¡± Saxe asked, beginning to realize the gravity of the situation.

    ¡°It, or rather he, is a living being. I believe that he is seeking Whisper, and myself, and that he would like very much to see us destroyed. He has been using her unconscious mind as a means to torment her. Last night, I was able to shield her from him, and I am confident that I can mask our location for the present time. It was for that reason I disarmed the security system for our floor. I could not risk anyone witnessing this, and having others learn the truth. I am truly sorry for the issues that this has caused for you, and more so that you, and Engram itself, are now embroiled in this. More than this, I am not able to explain, but know that I will do everything in my power to protect all of us.¡±

    Dr. Saxe exhaled deeply, letting go of a breath he hadn¡¯t been aware he was holding. ¡°Do you have reason to believe that this thing, this being, is coming here?¡±

    ¡°I believe that if he finds us, that is very likely. Still, I don¡¯t think it is possible for him to do so, at least not yet. If he possessed that power now, he would not have hesitated to use it. There is much I need to do, and I will be working to learn the extent of the situation. If the threat becomes imminent, I will work with you and Szostak, and with anyone necessary to protect us, and the world.¡± Raden explained. ¡°I must ask that for now, this does not leave this room, and that it is not disclosed to Mr. Szostak. He is a good man, but the more who are aware of this, the greater the chance of unauthorized people hearing of it, or seeing something they should not.¡± If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°In spite of my better judgement, Raden, I agree. I should be on the phone to the Pentagon right now, I should be briefing the President. But until we know more, I won¡¯t report this. If this thing of yours decides to go find something better to do, I don¡¯t need to end up locked up in the psych ward somewhere.¡± Dr. Saxe rubbed his temples, his head pounding from the stress.

    ¡°I appreciate your discretion. We have been friends for many years, and I would like to believe we still are. That I still enjoy your trust, and your confidence.¡± Raden closed his eyes, and again allowed himself to take on his familiar appearance. ¡°I am trusting you with my life, and Whisper¡¯s.¡±

    ¡°Of course, and I¡¯m sorry again for my reaction. In my line of work, it¡¯s probably more surprising that something like this hasn¡¯t happened sooner. You¡¯re a pain in the ass, you know that? What am I going to tell Szostak?¡± Dr. Saxe asked, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°Tell him that I admitted to breaking protocol, you wrote me up, and that the big secret is an affair between personnel.¡± Raden chuckled, reaching out to shake his friend¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Are you trying to tell me something else? An affair? You? Wait. Don¡¯t answer that. Please.¡± Aldrich laughed in return. ¡°Get out of here, I need to think.¡±

    Raden turned and walked out, surprised to see Troy in the reception area. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± he asked.

    ¡°I was¡­Raden?! I could ask you the same thing! I¡¯ve been looking all over for you! I came up here to cover for you and Whisper when you never showed up for work!¡± Troy said, throwing his hands up and getting up to leave. ¡°Guess I don¡¯t need to see Saxe after all, and I should thank you for that. Do me a favor. If you plan on vanishing again, warn me!¡±

    ¡°I will, my friend, and I¡¯m sorry to have worried you. Come with me to the lab.¡± Raden didn¡¯t wait for a reply before he left the reception room, heading for the elevator.

    They got in, and once the doors had closed, Raden once again opened the panel, and pressed the button for Zeta lab. ¡°Whisper will be waiting for us, and there will be time for questions then.¡±

    ¡°What the heck is that? I thought we were going to the lab?¡± Troy looked over Raden¡¯s shoulder, confused and frustrated. ¡°When is someone going to tell me what¡¯s going on here?¡±

    ¡°We are, Troy. We¡¯re going to my personal lab, not Whisper¡¯s. I apologize in advance, but there will be things I cannot answer, even with your clearance. You¡¯ll have to trust me.¡± Raden replied, turning to look pointedly at Troy. ¡°All things considered, that probably will be difficult, but Whisper and I will need your help.¡±

    ¡°Look, I don¡¯t know what all this secrecy is about, but Whisper is my friend. She is my closest friend, if we¡¯re being honest, and I won¡¯t let anything happen to her. If you need me, and if she needs me, I¡¯ll do whatever I can.¡± Troy answered, meeting Raden¡¯s gaze.

    <hr>

    Since the early dawn hours, Whisper had been sitting at Raden¡¯s workstation, pouring over data. Her scientist¡¯s mind took in the information, piecing together details as well as it could. There were still so many unanswered questions, but she could now approach it from a new perspective. These were not abnormalities in her blood, or Raden¡¯s, they were the factors that were inherent to people not of this world. She needed to understand, to learn things she had never imagined possible. Last night had been too difficult and painful, and far from getting to ask Raden the myriad questions that she needed answers to, she had instead been completely overwhelmed. Even now it was difficult to wrestle with the truth, and to accept what she had seen as more than the product of her troubled mind. She shook herself out of her thoughts, and rose to collect another printout.

    As she reached for the papers, the door opened, admitting Raden and Troy. She waved absently as she took in the latest results. She was fascinated, lost in the implications of what she was looking at. Raden peered at the papers as he approached her.

    ¡°I see you¡¯ve wasted no time. What have you been working on?¡± Raden asked casually, favoring her with a smile. ¡°Anything to share with the class?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know where to begin!¡± Whisper answered, as excitable as ever. She had exposed the sample of Raden¡¯s blood to multiple pathogens, and so far, none could overcome the unique cells that were present in their blood. ¡°If this is accurate, all of the work we¡¯ve been doing goes out the window. This is all that¡¯s needed.¡±

    ¡°Yes, and no, Whisper. You know as well as I do that this cannot be shared with the world, or with anyone but a select few. Where money and profit are concerned, you know what the result would be, and that isn¡¯t something we can allow.¡± Raden answered. ¡°However, I have informed Doctor Saxe, and we are going to need Troy¡¯s help as well. There are still things we need to have answers to, and it needs to be done without arousing suspicion, or drawing unwanted attention. Show him.¡±

    Whisper handed over the original sheet, comparing Raden¡¯s blood and her own. She stood next to him as he reviewed it, and Raden joined her. Troy poured over the data, trying to understand what it meant. ¡°What is this? What am I looking at?¡± He asked, looking between the two of them. ¡°I¡¯ve been at this a long time, and I¡¯ve never seen anything like this. Is it another virus?¡±

    ¡°No, it isn¡¯t a pathogen, don¡¯t worry. These are samples of mine and Whisper¡¯s blood.¡± Raden said matter-of-factly. ¡°Have a seat Troy.¡± he added, gesturing to the chair Whisper had been using at Raden¡¯s desk.

    ¡°You knew about this?¡± Troy asked Whisper. ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±

    ¡°No, not until last night. I didn¡¯t want to believe it either, at first, but now I just want more answers.¡± Whisper replied, sighing softly.

    ¡°Believe what, exactly?¡± Troy pressed her. ¡°You say these are blood samples, and I knew they found abnormalities, but I wasn¡¯t expecting this.¡±

    ¡°Troy, I think you may understand better than you realize.¡± Raden interjected. ¡°You¡¯ve seen Whisper¡¯s file, haven¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Yes, but what are you getting at? Sorry if I sound like a broken record here, but I¡¯m going to need more than hints here.¡± Troy answered, continuing to study the paperwork.

    Raden opened one of the drawers, and pulled out another folder. ¡°This is everything Engram knows about Whisper.¡± he said, removing two photographs from the folder and handing them to Troy. ¡°When they found her, there were no vital signs. From everything Dr. Martask could determine, she was dead. The first image was taken when they encountered her. The second, here at the facility when they arrived.¡±

    Troy scanned the pictures. The first depicted Whisper, bloody, wounded, and unmoving. The second photo showed her lying on the exam table, after Dr. Martask had cleaned the wounds. He had not seen them before, and he shuddered as he saw the condition she had been found in.

    ¡°Notice the time stamps, if you will.¡± Raden prompted.

    ¡°Wait...6 hours? How?¡± Troy asked, as he began to realize what Raden was saying. He was sharp, and had spent enough time in Special Projects to understand how much was kept from the public, and the world at large. He was pragmatic, he knew that science was uncovering much that would have seemed impossible a short time ago. He was fascinated, and eager to learn. ¡°Are you saying she just...got better?¡±

    ¡°She healed, yes. Look at her. Do you see any scars? Any sign that this is how they found her?¡± Raden asked.

    ¡°Now that you point it out, no. I don¡¯t know why I never thought of it.¡± Troy looked at Whisper, as if seeing her for the first time. ¡°These cells, what are they?¡±

    ¡°They are natural, for us. For our people.¡± Raden answered, reaching for Whisper¡¯s hand. He stroked her fingers, and pulled her closer to him. ¡°We identify them as I-Cells.¡±

    The truth dawned on Troy then, as he looked at Raden, and then at Whisper. ¡°Holy shit¡­¡± he said, his voice nearly a whisper. ¡°So you¡¯re¡­.¡± he trailed off, leaving the rest unspoken.

    ¡°Let¡¯s move to the lounge, and I¡¯ll explain.¡± Raden said, leading Whisper through another door and into a well appointed break room. Troy followed, and sat across from the two of them, as they seated themselves on the sofa. ¡°I apologize, this will be new to Whisper as well, and I want her to be safe.¡±

    Whisper looked up at Raden, her expression loving. ¡°Please don¡¯t worry about me, I need to know, I need to understand. You know who I am...don¡¯t you.¡± She said quietly, the words more a statement than a question.

    ¡°I do.¡± Raden answered. ¡°But that is a more private matter, which I will help you understand tonight when we are alone. There is much I wasn¡¯t able to tell you last night, because I was worried, and you were so upset. There will be more questions, but I need you both to listen, for now. Time is short, and we cannot stay here too much longer, or people will begin to notice our absence.

    ¡°To answer your question, Troy, you are correct. We are not human. We are called Lumhin. Our coming here was not planned, but it served a purpose better than we had hoped. For 12 years, we have been able to remain here undisturbed.

    ¡°I longed every day to tell you the truth, Whisper, but it was safer for us if you did not know. When you arrived here, something happened, you lost your memory, and when Engram found you, there were so few I-Cells in your blood that Dr. Martask was convinced it was something you had been exposed to, that it was external. I realized then that you were vulnerable, and that your presence here needed to be protected very carefully. I protected you, ensured that no one but Dr. Martask was allowed to perform any type of medical procedure on you. It was not until I looked at your blood again that I saw what I had hoped, and had waited all these long years to see. Your I-Cells have completely replenished, to the same levels as my own. You are awakening. As you have recovered, it has allowed the nightmares to worsen, because it has made you more accessible to the one causing them.¡±

    ¡°I need to stop you there, Raden.¡± Troy interrupted. ¡°Look, I know better than to doubt you. But are you saying it¡¯s a person causing the dreams? That this is some kind of attack?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Troy. He is called Tenebris. I cannot explain further now, but he is dangerous. I fear that he altered her in some way, but it appears to me that it has been a favor, rather than a curse. It sheltered her all of these years. I was not completely certain it was him until I observed the dream last night, and I was able to shield her from him.¡± Raden explained.

    Whisper sat transfixed, listening as Raden spoke. Images flashed through her mind unbidden, unrecognizable and yet familiar. She closed her eyes, holding her head in her hands as they came, faster than she could process.

    ¡°Whisper, are you alright?¡± Raden asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°I¡­.Raden¡­.I¡¯m seeing things...pictures... I think I am remembering things. I don¡¯t know what they are, but it feels...right somehow.¡±

    ¡°I suspect I understand¡­¡± Raden trailed off for a moment, considering. ¡°If I am correct that Tenebris altered you in some way, then it would stand to reason the effects would be wearing off after I shielded you. Perhaps whatever was done, is being undone more quickly.¡±

    Troy sat in silence, watching the two people who were family to him. He had no living relatives, having lost his parents in an accident when he was young. Science had been his life, his love, his reason for being. If they were not human, so be it. It didn¡¯t matter, they were his friends, and he loved them. ¡°How can I help?¡± He asked.

    ¡°Dr. Saxe is aware of part of this, of the fact that there is a threat. He will eventually need to know more, but we cannot afford for others to learn of this yet.¡± Raden replied, turning to look at Troy. ¡°There will be things that we need, that you are in a unique position to help us acquire. Troy, you have access to Deep Storage, do you not?¡±

    ¡°I do, yes. What do you need?¡± Troy answered, getting to his feet. ¡°Say the word, Raden. I will do anything I can to help.¡±

    ¡°I need to see the items recovered when they found Whisper. While I also have clearance, it would raise far more questions coming from me. Now that I find myself on Szostak¡¯s radar, I will need to be more careful for the time being.¡± Raden explained, favoring his friend with a smile.

    ¡°On it.¡± Troy answered. ¡°I have some work that will give me the perfect excuse to go down there.¡±

    ¡°What about me?¡± Whisper asked. This was about her, all of this was because of her. She needed to help, needed to know so much more. ¡°I may not be good at all this sneaky stuff, and I¡¯m an awful liar, but there has to be something I can do.¡±

    ¡°Whisper, there is indeed something you can do.¡± Raden replied, a roguish, and uncharacteristic grin spreading across his face. ¡°You are going to help me create a scandal.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not human? Sure. You¡¯re in trouble with Szostak? Fine. But a scandal? This I¡¯m scared to know.¡± Troy laughed, shaking his head.

    ¡°I love Whisper.¡± Raden told him. ¡°I have for a very long time. But what better way to offer an explanation for secrecy than this?¡±

    ¡°Fair enough, Raden.¡± Troy answered. ¡°Speaking of secrecy, if we don¡¯t want half the facility asking questions, I think we should get back upstairs. We¡¯ve been down here for hours.¡±

    ¡°Good point.¡± Whisper said, getting to her feet as well. ¡°Everyone knows I¡¯m a workaholic, but you two should make an appearance. I¡¯ll see you tonight, Raden. And Troy, thank you, for everything.¡±

    ¡°I told you, we¡¯re in this together.¡± Troy answered, heading to the elevator with Raden. ¡°Catch you later!¡±

    As the doors shut behind Raden and Troy. Whisper wandered back to the lab, and to the workstation. As her eyes found the images of her blood and Raden¡¯s, more images came unbidden to her mind. A lab she didn¡¯t recognize. Blueprints. A voice, saying to her that her work was forbidden, and it would never be completed. Fire. She put a hand to her head again, slumping into the chair. As if in a trance, Whisper began to draw.

 Chapter 5

    Water dripped in a rhythmic pattern from stalactites where they hung from the ceiling of the cavern, the same sound continuing through ages and empires. Endless light years from Onyx facility and Engram, the underground cave and its lone occupant had remained unchanged, a distant memory, and little more than a myth to many. The planet Tenebris was dark, cold, and isolated. It was the outermost planet in the Elthys system. The life that had evolved there had adapted to the harsh conditions. It was liveable, barely. Those with a choice did not visit the distant world.

    Tenebris seethed in anger, trying again to manifest himself in physical form. Darkness coalesced, forming the vague outline of a body, but withered again before solidifying. He loathed this place, this prison where his mother and sisters had contained him in an age long past. So close had he come to his conquest, to dominion over the creatures of light. They had been helpless before him, hundreds falling beneath his onslaught before she had interfered. He would not forgive his mother, her betrayal still burned inside of him. Why could she not see? Why could any of them not see his rightful place? Could they not see the pleasure of being served by these creatures, these Lumhin?

    Tenebris reached across the distance of space with his mind, seeking the ones who had contributed to his downfall. Two had escaped him, and two were beyond his reach. Silence met his attempt, he could no longer feel the helpless one. It angered him. She had been so open to him, and he had taken pleasure in her suffering. Now, he could no longer reach her. Something had changed. The tiny, helpless mind had blinked out of existence. Had she died? No. He would not entertain that. He would be the one to kill her. He would deal with her lover as well. Stupid, foolish beings. They would learn as he had that such paltry things as affection would only bring them pain. He would be free again.

    Taking comfort in the only way possible to him, Tenebris attempted again to manifest, this time a dark tendril, snaking slowly, inching toward the surface through a weakness in the barrier that kept him there. It crept, seeking something, anything, that walked free above him. Pleasure filled him as he wrapped the tendril around the form of a lumbering beast, the creature having no defense against him. As he drained its life, leaving a husk behind, he sighed, taking in the strength it gave him. Yes, he would be free again. He would be free, and they would pay the price.

    <hr>

    Szostak sat at his desk in SecOps, his feet casually propped on another chair as he watched the security feeds. If Saxe thought he was buying the affair story, he had another thing coming. In the years he¡¯d known the man, he had never seen Raden show any interest in romance, he wasn¡¯t sure the guy knew the meaning of the word. If it wasn¡¯t the latest tech or another new project, it wouldn¡¯t turn Raden¡¯s head. He sipped his coffee, changing camera views as Calero and Valentine came into view, making their rounds on 2. There would be no more cutting of security feed on his watch, and he intended to make that clear. As he watched, he saw Raden come off the elevator, an elaborately wrapped box in his hands. He was headed for Whisper¡¯s apartment, again.

    ¡°Well I¡¯ll be damned¡­¡± Szostak said to the empty room, a grin on his face. ¡°Maybe there are perks to this job after all.¡±

    <hr>

    As Raden exited the elevator, he nearly collided with Agents Calero and Valentine who were walking down the hall on rounds, checking cameras, locks, and performing a sweep for any unauthorized listening devices. Calero stopped when she saw him, a smile coming to her lips.

    ¡°So it is true! Raden, you scoundrel!¡± She laughed brightly. ¡°Could Engram¡¯s most eligible bachelor really be off the market?¡± Addison Calero knew how to tease, and she was delighting in this. It had been a long while since there had been any good gossip at Engram.

    ¡°Is it so surprising? I¡¯ve worked with Whisper for years, she¡¯s smart, beautiful, and yes, I love her.¡± Raden said, shifting the box to hold it under one arm. ¡°Besides, if I have to have a write-up on my record for the first time in my career, I¡¯m glad it was for her. Since when does Security engage in the local water cooler talk, hmm?¡± He smiled disarmingly, enjoying the game.

    ¡°Since forever?¡± Aram Valentine quipped, nudging Calero in the ribs playfully. ¡°You two are the hottest item since we thought Saxe and Elgadi were a thing.¡±

    ¡°Are you certain the two of you aren¡¯t still in school? Ms. Elgadi is the picture of professionalism. She¡¯s been his assistant for almost 20 years, and if there¡¯s anything she¡¯d like from Dr. Saxe, it would be his job. Now if you¡¯ll excuse me, a certain someone is waiting for me.¡± Raden waved as he resumed walking down the hall to Whisper¡¯s apartment.

    As the two agents rounded the corner, Raden looked after them. There had not been a sweep in the residential area for quite some time. It was not a coincidence, he thought to himself. He would have to be very careful. Szostak was watching his every move. He purposefully avoided looking up at the camera, instead putting on a show of straightening his jacket, and checking the bow on the gift he carried for Whisper. Let them think he was the nervous suitor. He knocked on Whisper¡¯s door, and she opened it almost immediately. She had been waiting for him.

    <hr>

    Whisper stepped aside, allowing Raden to enter. Her eyes went to the box he was carrying, and widened in surprise.

    ¡°What¡¯s this about?¡± She asked, unable to keep a hint of eagerness out of her voice. ¡°I have no idea if it¡¯s my birthday, but if it is, thanks for remembering!¡± She added, reaching for his free hand. It was still so hard to believe that she was with him now, that he returned her feelings and they were together. Everything was happening so fast, but it made her feel alive, excited, and for the first time in a long while, she was genuinely happy.

    ¡°It isn¡¯t your birthday, which by the way falls on Christmas, as humans keep time.¡± He smiled at her, able now to show her how he had felt for several human lifetimes. He had never dreamed that this would happen, and that it would take the likes of Tenebris and living on a distant world to give her to him. He had been so afraid to tell her the details of it, but he felt more confident now. Whisper loved him, and would always love him, rules and laws and traditions be damned. Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    ¡°Really? Christmas?!¡± She exclaimed, child-like in her joy. ¡°You¡¯re making that up, aren¡¯t you?¡± She chided him.

    ¡°I promise, I am not. We don¡¯t keep time in the same way, but the math works that way here. Human celebrations are so innocent, and lovely. It¡¯s a coincidence as beautiful as you are, Whisper.¡± Raden answered, setting down the gift and smoothing her snow-white hair with his hands. ¡°Part of me feels so out of place, please forgive me if this is awkward. As much as it may horrify you to hear, you are my first and only love. I have never had interest in another living being. You are unique, and so incredibly special. You always have been. I need to tell you something, before this goes further.¡±

    Raden led her to the sofa, and they sat together, Whisper¡¯s eyes never leaving him. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, nothing matters. I love you more than anything.¡± She told him then. There was nothing that could change this.

    ¡°Still, it¡¯s important that you know. At home, in our world, I belonged to the Council of the Enlightened. I will not bore you with a refresher on that right now, but suffice it to say, as a leader, romance was forbidden. Our people aren¡¯t given to sentiment, or feelings, or to acting on them even where they exist. I don¡¯t mean to make them sound cold, as your memories return you will remember how much you love them all, how much you were willing to sacrifice.

    ¡°They cling to tradition, to formalities, and the Enlightened don¡¯t tolerate distractions. As the governors of our people, we are to renounce connections to others and to lead without prejudice or bias. When I thought I had lost you forever, I resigned. I couldn¡¯t let you go, and the others refused to help. They said it was a fool¡¯s errand, and that I was betraying my duties to them and to our people. Tenebris...the one in your dreams...he killed so many of our people. He was contained, but only temporarily. You and I, and your parents, were the only ones who saw fit to take action, and the other Enlightened had wanted to negotiate. Negotiate, of all things, with Tenebris.¡± A note of frustration crept into his voice.

    ¡°Raden...you left for me?...because of me?¡± Whisper asked, sadness in her voice as she began to understand what he had given up. ¡°Why would you give up something like that?¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious, dear heart? I did it because I love you. I have no use for titles, or power, or positions. It was my birthright, I was born to that title. But you are what I want, and what I have always wanted.¡± Raden explained patiently, his natural eyes glowing their brilliant green as he looked at her. ¡°I followed the rules for most of my life, because I never felt for another the way I do for you. I never had a reason to want to be involved. You changed all of that. You refused to hide that you had feelings, attachments. They told you to stop showing emotion, to stop living by your heart, and you scoffed at them. At the very rulers and dignitaries of our people.

    ¡°When we moved against Tenebris, your parents were badly injured, and we were defeated. Before I could move you, your father did. He opened a gate and he sent you, without care for where it would take you. His only focus was that Tenebris did not have you. I didn¡¯t have time to follow, I had to save your parents. I was able to leave with them, and it took time to find you. When I did, and I realized you couldn¡¯t use your power, or even remember who you were, I decided that we could just hide here. We could be together. Even if I couldn¡¯t be with you in the way that I hoped, I was here with you.¡±

    ¡°My power..?¡± Whisper questioned.

    ¡°Close your eyes for a moment, and listen to my voice.¡± Raden instructed, taking her hands again in his. ¡°Can you feel the life around you?¡±

    ¡°Yes¡­¡± Whisper answered, reaching out to sense the lives in Onyx Facility, and all around her. ¡°I could always feel people, but I thought it was just empathy.¡±

    ¡°Focus on that energy, and then look around you, if you understand me. Look past the people, at the world.¡± He continued. ¡°Then imagine that you can touch it. The energy that gives life to everything. Imagine you can hold it.¡±

    As he spoke, and Whisper followed his instructions, a very faint glow came to her hand. She opened her eyes, feeling the warmth, and marveling at the sight. It was unnerving, but familiar at the same time. She recognized the feeling, remembering it now as something that had been there all of her life.

    ¡°Be careful, my love.¡± Raden warned, even as he smiled at her accomplishment. ¡°You will remember in time what you are capable of. We were not certain yet, but the Enlightened believe that you are stronger even than I am. If that is true, your awakening will be like a beacon to Tenebris. Human beings would not stand a chance against him, even if they learned to work together for once. It is painful how divided they are, how easily swayed and given to violence against each other.

    ¡°For the time being, Tenebris does not know how to locate you, or me. He wants to, and given time, I believe that he will be able to again. His focus is on us, because we opposed him. Our people do not know of humans, aside from me, and neither does Tenebris, or his family. I didn¡¯t inform anyone of this world.¡±

    ¡°What is he, Raden?¡± Whisper asked, engrossed in learning all that she could. She moved to sit closer to him, a shiver running through her as she recalled the voice in her dreams. Understanding that it was more than a dream was frightening, and she didn¡¯t want to think of meeting the being whose voice it was. That she had already encountered him once was difficult enough to comprehend.

    Raden wrapped his arms around Whisper, kissing the top of her head softly. He could sense her fear, and he hated knowing that it was there, that she was afraid even in his presence. ¡°Everything that we consider living carries the power of an Aspect.¡± He began, holding her close as he spoke. ¡°Our own is the Aspect of light, or the Light, in common speech. The more freely the Aspects flow, the stronger the concentration of that power becomes. Given enough power from an Aspect, one can ascend, can become something more. Tenebris is what we call a Prime Aspect. He is a child of what a person of earth might call a star. Elthys and Tyris are the centers of our system, they are the core. They are known to us as Supreme Aspects. He dwells inside his namesake planet, Tenebris, distant from his mother Elthys and her sister. He wasn¡¯t always what he is now, he became twisted.¡±

    As they had talked, the hours wore on, from afternoon into evening, and evening into night. Whisper lay close in Raden¡¯s embrace, and as he taught her of their world, their people, and more of the things she had forgotten, her eyes closed. She drifted to sleep, his voice soothing her and reassuring her. Shielded from Tenebris, she slept in his arms.

 Chapter 6

    Troy left his office, running a hand through his dark hair and sighing as he walked. He was exhausted, so much had happened in the last few days, and sleep had been elusive.

    That''s an understatement, he thought to himself. His best friend and his mentor were aliens! Still, he had to admit, it was the most incredible thing to have ever happened to him. Troy Kerrick. Out of everyone in the world, he had the honor of knowing Whisper and Raden. They trusted him, and he wouldn''t let them down.

    As the elevator pinged to announce its arrival at floor B2, Troy stepped out and walked down the corridor. The fluorescent lights gave the area a clinical feel, and it was eerily quiet. He passed the entrances for several of the archive rooms, and the dry, chilled air made him shiver. He looked over the sheets on his clipboard, ensuring he knew which items were needed. For his own work, Troy had requisitioned several viral samples that he hoped would help him finally break through the block in his research. He waved to the guards as he swiped his card. The door hissed as pressure was released, and he entered the deep storage vault.

    The interior of the Deep Storage room was massive, having been excavated from the stone deep into the mountain on the side of which the Onyx Facility had been constructed. He compared his notes again to the indicators on the shelves. He located the storage box which contained the items found near Whisper. He wasn''t sure what Raden was looking for, but a quick scan of the contents ruled out most of the articles inside. He selected what appeared to be a pendant, as well as a delicately carved statuette and a small, tattered notebook. The pages were dirty, and blood stained the edges as well as the cover. He skimmed through, though what was written there was in no language he had encountered. He suspected the elegant, flowing script would be familiar to Raden and Whisper. Taking the items, he proceeded to the freezer where he was required to enter another code. Escaping vapor from the liquid nitrogen coolant momentarily obscured his vision, but he located the samples he needed. He placed them into the cooler he carried, and along with them, Whisper¡¯s belongings. He didn''t know if anyone bothered to read the log sheets showing who had current custody of items in Deep Storage, but if anyone did,  he wanted to avoid unwanted questions.

    He secured the freezer again, and left the room, moving more slowly and deliberately as he carried the viral samples. He raised a hand again to the guards. "Thanks guys!" Troy remarked cheerily as he left.

    "Have a good one, Doctor Kerrick!" One of the guards replied, while the second waved back.

    As the elevator doors shut again, Troy leaned against the back of the elevator. The most risky part of his task was behind him, at least he hoped it was. He thought back to his conversation with Raden and Whisper, and the danger that loomed over them all. No, it was only the beginning, he thought to himself. He could only pray to anything that was listening that they would all come through this alive.

    *****************

    Whisper awoke slowly, becoming aware that she was not alone. She looked into the deep green eyes of Raden as he lay next to her. She loved his natural eyes, they were so kind and full of wisdom. She hated that he had to hide them so much of the time, showing them to others as blue.

    "You¡¯re here." She said softly, enjoying the warmth of him next to her. She rested her hand on his chest. His pale skin was surprisingly soft, even though it was scarred in several places.

    "I always will be, my heart. Now that everyone is gossiping about us anyway, I didn''t see the harm in it. I''ve waited a very long time for this." Raden answered, smiling at her and brushing a strand of hair out of her face. "By the light, you''re beautiful."

    Whisper felt her cheeks color at his compliment, but it filled her with joy. "This all feels like a dream, I''m still afraid that I''m going to wake up and none of this will be real."

    "What would you say if I told you I have loved you for almost 416 years? I would have lost my mind if I had had to wait a single one more." He laughed warmly, hugging her close.

    "What do you mean?" She asked, confused. ¡°How old are you? How old am I?¡±

    ¡°In the way time is measured here, I just turned 720 a short time ago. You are about a century my junior, but such is normal for Lumhin. I''m not sure how your memory is yet, but we reach maturity around 175 years, as humans would understand time." Raden explained. He was honored to help her rediscover her past, their past.

    Before she could respond, there was a knock at the door. "One moment!" Whisper called out. As she sat up, it dawned on her that she was wearing her nightwear. The oversized night shirt fell to her knees as she got out of bed, it was one of her favorites. She blushed again, but left the bedroom, hurrying across the living room to the door.

    Raden stood as well, standing in the bedroom doorway to see who had interrupted their morning. His chest was broad and well muscled, the product of his adherence to the training he had been accustomed to when leading the Lumhin defense forces. He leaned casually against the frame, his arms crossed. He hid his appearance once again, showing the dark hair, blue eyes, and tanned skin that his coworkers knew.

    Whisper opened the door, relieved to see Troy on the other side. "Hey!" She said cheerily, moving aside to let him in.

    Troy looked past her at Raden, and he smirked. "And hello to you too, Raden. Guess you weren''t kidding when you said you were in a scandal." He laughed as he made his way to the couch, setting down the cooler he carried. "Good news, I got Whisper¡¯s stuff, part of it anyway." He said, gesturing at the cooler.

    ¡°Thank you, Troy. Your help means a lot to me, and to Whisper.¡± Raden said, coming forward to take a seat across from Troy. ¡°When you say part of it, what do you mean? What were you able to recover?¡±

    ¡°A lot of it seemed to be debris, or just junk. Whisper¡¯s clothes were there, but they were ruined. I saw some samples of rock, a few other odds and ends. I brought the pendant, what looks to be her notes, and a little statue that seemed like an artefact. Anything else you still need?¡± Troy asked, opening the cooler and taking out the items as he spoke.

    ¡°No, this is perfect, exactly what I needed.¡± Raden answered. ¡°Did you have any trouble with security? Any reason to think they¡¯re aware?¡±

    ¡°Nah, nothing like that. I practically live down there, so they didn¡¯t think anything of it.¡± Troy replied. ¡°What¡¯s the story here, anyway?¡± He asked.

    ¡°These artefacts are from our world. They possess significant power, and I believe they may be very helpful in our confrontation with Tenebris. Had Whisper¡¯s parents not fallen, things would have ended quite differently given the strength of what these represent.¡± Raden explained, picking up the statuette.

    Whisper returned to the bedroom as Raden and Troy conversed. As she picked clothes from the closet, her eyes fell on a sheet of folded paper on the floor. She bent to pick it up, and she froze as she looked at the image it contained. It was one of the drawings she had made in the lab as her memories had started to come back. In striking detail, it depicted another man, clearly Lumhin, but different somehow. His eyes were unnatural, like nothing she had seen before. She knew him, but his name would not come to mind.

    The sound of continued conversation brought her out of her thoughts, and she went to rejoin Raden and Troy. She folded the paper, and put it in the pocket of her lab coat. She needed to talk to Raden about it as soon as she could.

    As she returned to the living room, Whisper¡¯s gaze fell over her belongings, and as she looked at them, another flood of memories flashed through her mind. She saw people, her people, running in terror. A creature of tremendous darkness, who she knew now to be Tenebris. She saw herself, performing feats she couldn¡¯t understand or explain, wielding power that still seemed unreal. Raden had been with her, and another man and woman. Her parents¡­ the realization dawned on her. She stood transfixed as the memories kept coming, reaching out a hand to touch the pendant. She could see it around her neck, and as she touched it, it seemed to awaken. An increasingly bright glow began to shine from the crystal that hung from a chain. Stolen novel; please report.

    ¡°Shit!¡± Troy exclaimed, jumping back from the object. He looked at Whisper¡¯s expression, and back and Raden. ¡°What¡¯s going on? What¡¯s it doing to her?¡±

    ¡°It belongs to her father, it knows her.¡± Raden explained. ¡°It is called the Blessing of Elthys, an artefact her father was given to combat Tenebris. It is attuned to her family, so it reacts to her command.¡±

    Raden reached out and quickly took it from her, masking the glow. He looked toward the door, hearing footsteps in the hallway. He hoped that Szostak was not watching the security feed, and that whoever was there did not see the glare from under Whisper¡¯s door. He was not ready to confront Engram¡¯s security again, but if it came to that, it could not be helped. As he grasped the crystal in his hand, trying to stanch the Light power it was now emanating, he heard a voice in his mind.

    ¡°There you are¡­¡± Tenebris said, his tone both derisive and pleased. ¡°You can not elude me, you and the girl. I am coming.¡±

    Raden shielded the crystal in his own power, shutting off the flow of Light and blocking the connection to Tenbris. He looked at Troy and Whisper, his voice quiet. Raden was rarely afraid, but this unsettled him deeply. ¡°Tenebris has found us. I¡¯m afraid we may not have much more time. I suspected that this would happen, when Whisper regained her strength. The Blessing of Elthys is, after all, his mother¡¯s power, and it calls to him.¡±

    Whisper held out her hand for the pendant, and Raden obliged. Without hesitation, she put it around her neck, securing the clasp. The crystal pulsed steadily with brilliant light, painful to the eye in its intensity. She closed her eyes a moment, focusing on the power that swelled within it. She stilled it, as she had seen herself do in her memories, and the light dimmed, the crystal going dormant again.

    They were interrupted again by another knock on the door. ¡°Whisper, Raden, open the door please. We need to speak to you!¡± They recognized the voice of Agent Calero. ¡°What¡¯s going on in there?¡±

    Whisper walked to the door, opening it to admit Calero and her partner Valentine. The two agents stood rooted to the spot, eyes wide as they watched Raden begin to change before them. His hair turned its natural white, his eyes green, and his skin turned pale to once again mirror Whisper¡¯s. He stood with his arms at his sides, careful not to make any moves the agents would see as threatening. His still-bare chest could have been carved from marble as the transformation moved through his body. They took in the scene with a practiced eye, noting that Troy was with them as well. Agent Valentine¡¯s hand lingered on his weapon, but Calero placed a hand over his, staying his motion.

    ¡°Aram, no.¡± Calero told her partner. She turned her attention from Whisper to Raden. ¡°Raden, what the hell?¡±

    ¡°There is no time, Addison. Get Szostak, and meet us upstairs.¡± Raden told her, his tone leaving no room for argument.

    There would be no more pretense, no more dissembling. It was time to act. He reached for his shirt where it had lain on the arm of the sofa, and pulled it on. He reached for Whisper¡¯s hand and led her to the door, nodding to Troy to follow them. Valentine and Calero walked ahead of them, ensuring that passers by wouldn¡¯t hinder them.

    They boarded the elevator together, and pressed the button for the 4th floor and Dr. Saxe¡¯s office. They left the security team in the elevator to proceed up to security, and marched purposefully down the hall. Raden saw the shocked and horrified expressions of people that they had known for years, who were friends and co-workers. An intern dropped his files in the hallway as he stared at the Special Projects team walking past, led by Raden.

    ********************

    Whisper, Troy, and Raden entered Dr. Saxe¡¯s reception area, and didn¡¯t bother to stop. They paused only long enough for Raden to knock several times, and they found Saxe seated behind his desk. He looked up in surprise at the sudden intrusion, standing as he realized that Raden was no longer disguising himself.

    ¡°This can¡¯t be good.¡± He remarked, coming around the desk to join the team. ¡°What¡¯s the situation?¡± Dr. Saxe wasted no time in getting to the point. He knew that his friend would not be open about his identity if it wasn¡¯t serious.

    ¡°Tenebris has located us. He said that he¡¯s coming, and I believe it won¡¯t be long.¡± Raden answered.

    Saxe nodded to Szostak as the Head of Security came striding into the room, his team in tow. ¡°David, we¡¯ve got a situation.¡± Saxe stated, motioning everyone through the door to his private meeting room.

    ¡°You don¡¯t say!¡± Szostak remarked, his voice oozing sarcasm. ¡°An affair, my ass! I knew this was more than you were telling me.¡±

    ¡°I apologize, David. Until now, we weren¡¯t certain there was cause for concern. Since that has changed, we can¡¯t afford to stand on formalities. We have to get our plan together so I can run this up the chain. Raden, if you could please fill us in, I¡¯d appreciate it.¡±

    ¡°Of course, Aldrich. And David, I am sorry for my part in the deception as well, though what you have seen is completely accurate. I am seeing Whisper.¡± Raden began. ¡°The small talk will have to wait, however. I will be as brief as possible, so that we can make necessary preparations.

    ¡°The adversary we are dealing with is called Tenebris, and he is incredibly powerful. He desires to destroy Whisper and I, primarily, but he is unaware of the human race. I have no trouble believing that he will decide that subjugating the people of Earth would be a fun diversion. I realize that sounds like hyperbole, but I assure you, he is capable of it.¡±

    ¡°What are you saying? Some kind of space alien is coming here?¡± Szostak asked incredulously.

    ¡°Look at me, David. Whisper and I are of the Lumhin race, and we are standing here before you. With all due respect, sir, this isn¡¯t the time for skepticism.¡± Raden stated, unable to keep a note of anger from his voice.

    ¡°And you¡¯ve been lying to me for 20 years about your identity. Forgive me for being less than willing to believe you¡¯re reliable.¡± Szostak bit back.

    ¡°12 years.¡± Raden corrected him. ¡°I¡¯m the same person you¡¯ve always known. Try to see this from my perspective. If I had revealed myself sooner, this calamity would have been years ago instead of now, but it still would have come. Tenebris doesn¡¯t forget, and he doesn¡¯t forgive. He¡¯s waited 12 years for his chance to kill us. I didn¡¯t want this for any of us. Not for Whisper, or myself, or the human race. Had I been given a choice, I would have taken her and left immediately, but she was not able to defend herself, and I couldn¡¯t fend off Tenebris alone.¡± Raden continued, his eyes flashing angrily. ¡°This is a waste of time. If you choose not to believe me, then we will leave, even if he still seeks us here.¡±

    ¡°Raden, it¡¯s alright. I¡¯m sorry for David¡¯s piss poor behavior here. I really am. I know we need you, we have no idea how to stop this Tenebris without you. What do we need to do?¡± Saxe asked, glaring at Szostak.

    ¡°I believe the soundest strategy is to evacuate everyone within 15 to 20 miles of the facility. Given our location, there shouldn¡¯t be that many people in the area. I want to avoid Tenebris deciding to vent his wrath on the locals, and the more human resistance he encounters, the more likely that becomes.¡± Raden answered, taking a seat again at the table.

    ¡°Seems like a sound strategy to me.¡± Szostak agreed. ¡°We clear out the civilians, and we keep only enough personnel here to defend the facility itself. Our target doesn¡¯t need to know how common our kind are, or to have time to get any funny ideas. I think we also have to avoid a huge show of military force. The Pentagon isn¡¯t going to take this lightly, but the administration needs to understand that the more people they send out here, the more dangerous it¡¯ll be.¡±

    Whisper¡¯s hand went to the pendant at her neck. She laced her fingers around it as she rose to her feet. ¡°I¡¯m not in the military, I¡¯m a scientist. But Raden and I fought Tenebris before, with my parents. We weren¡¯t enough, but our Council of the Enlightened, our government, didn¡¯t see fit to intervene until he was slaying people left and right. I think Raden and I should go home, to our world. I think we should ask for help. They can¡¯t ignore this, not when innocents could be killed.¡± She walked to the window and looked out at a darkening sky. ¡°He knows we¡¯re here, and this is where he is coming, even as we speak. I don¡¯t think anything will change his course now, even if we didn¡¯t return. He wouldn¡¯t know that until it was too late.¡±

    ¡°David, I want you to spearhead the preparations. Start clearing out all non-essential personnel. I want all the research teams and support staff out of here. Your people will stay on.¡± Saxe said, thinking over who would be needed. ¡°I¡¯ll contact the Pentagon, and brief the brass. With any luck, they¡¯ll see reason and won¡¯t flood the area. We¡¯ll need support on the ground to evacuate the locals, and to ensure the public doesn¡¯t get wind of this. I¡¯m thinking we go public with a virus containment failure, or a chemical spill. Engram will take a hit, but I don¡¯t see a way around that, and frankly, the hell with PR right now.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m staying too.¡± Troy said, speaking up for the first time since the meeting had begun. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving Whisper and Raden. I understand the risks, but I¡¯ll help any way I can.¡±

    ¡°Fine. You can stay on, Troy, but we can¡¯t guarantee your safety. We don¡¯t know what it¡¯s going to take to contain this bastard.¡± Saxe answered. The look in Troy¡¯s eyes told him the man was prepared to defy any orders he¡¯d give to the contrary, and arguments would only slow them down.

    ¡°I get it. But I¡¯ve made up my mind.¡± Troy replied. I¡¯ll head back to the lab and oversee getting sensitive projects and materials moved to Deep Storage for the duration. Spin aside, we don¡¯t need a real containment failure on top of a pissed off planet god.

    ¡°Perfect. Raden, Whisper, after your projects are secured, you go for help. And I pray you find it, my friends. Let¡¯s move.¡± Saxe answered, not waiting for a reply. He headed back to his office to ring the Pentagon, leaving his people to handle their parts of the operation.

 Chapter 7

    Secretary of Defense Bruce Arke picked up the phone, surprised to be receiving a priority call at this hour. He had been pouring over his daily briefings when his secretary hurriedly knocked and entered, letting him know that it was coming through on the secure line.

    ¡°This is Arke.¡± He stated, never a man to mince words or to be verbose.

    ¡°Secretary, this is Doctor Aldrich Saxe, CEO and Head of Operations for Engram Corporation. We have actionable intelligence of an imminent national security threat.¡± Saxe replied.

    ¡°What have we got, Doctor.¡± Arke answered, motioning to his secretary to bring him a pen and paper. He knew his next call would be to the President, and he had to have the details to hand.

    ¡°Sir, we have credible evidence of an extraterrestrial threat, which will be approaching our facility with the intent to destroy it. It has been identified as highly intelligent, dangerous, and we believe it is tracking the location of two of my people.¡±

    ¡°And this has already been verified?¡± Arke replied, his eyebrows raised as he listened to Saxe speak. He knew the man to be credible, and that he had the clearance to be aware of a situation like this. If Saxe said there were aliens on the way, there were aliens on the way. The existence of extraterrestrial life was an ill-kept secret, one that the intelligence agencies still tried in vain to keep. ¡°How long?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Sir. As we speak, I have two persons of extraterrestrial origin on the premises. I will give a full report as soon as possible, but Sir, they have been here for 12 years, and in that time, they have been of tremendous service. They themselves are not a threat, and I don¡¯t want harm coming to my people. We don¡¯t know how long, but we don¡¯t think this creature is going to wait around for my people to act.¡±

    ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll get this to the Situation Room and brief the President. What¡¯s the scope? Do we believe there are any additional targets?¡± Arke questioned Saxe, continuing to assess what would be needed. As they talked, he was already in motion, preparing orders for his teams.

    ¡°No, sir. My people believe that it doesn¡¯t know we exist. It was able to identify them, and we don¡¯t have reason to believe it will consider the rest of us anything but an inconvenience. They recommend we evacuate all civilians, and that we keep military presence to the absolute minimum. The being they know as Tenebris isn¡¯t known to kill without reason, but if our forces engage with him, we believe the situation will escalate, and he will retaliate.¡± Saxe explained, keeping his answers as succinct as possible.

    ¡°Good to know. I¡¯m still sending the President to a secured location. I don¡¯t feel comfortable waiting to see if this all goes to hell. What¡¯s your plan for engagement?¡± Arke asked then, mentally going over strategy and potential outcomes. ¡°We will have people on the ground, but if there¡¯s need for discretion, we¡¯ll deploy Seals and Special Forces only.¡±

    ¡°When Tenebris is on site, we plan to have Whisper and Raden and their backup ready to attempt containment. At this point, we will leak to the media that there has been a breach of our viral containment facility, and that we believe a contagion may be airborne in the vicinity. I assure you, that is not the case, but we feel that Engram falling on our swords is the best way to keep the public away, and to ensure the true nature of the threat doesn¡¯t cause a panic. ¡± Saxe continued.

    ¡°Sounds appropriate. When the target is in sight, I want my teams in place for support. Commander Afton will be my eyes and ears, and the standing orders will be do not engage unless he makes that call.¡± Arke said, continuing to shore up plans as he prepared to leave. ¡°What is going to be done to neutralize this Tenebris?¡±

    ¡°My people are going to employ help from their home world, Sir. They have encountered him before, and they know what we¡¯re up against. This will mean more of their people here, most likely, but I trust their judgement. We will do our best to see this doesn¡¯t get out.¡± Saxe replied. ¡°Can I count on your help to keep this contained, Sir? I need you to assure the President that we can¡¯t pull out all the stops. From what I¡¯ve witnessed, our tech wouldn¡¯t give this thing so much as a rash.¡±

    ¡°Understood. I will ensure the response is appropriate from our side. Last thing we need is to have lives lost because someone couldn¡¯t keep their head on straight. Expect my teams within the next several hours. I¡¯m sending my best, and they¡¯ll keep me briefed as the situation develops. Godspeed, Doctor.¡± Arke said, hanging up the phone. True to his word, Secretary Arke dialed the President as he grabbed his uniform coat, and hurried from the room en route to the White House. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    <hr>

    In Engram¡¯s Security Operations room, Szostak issued orders, his people carrying them out with expert precision. He poured over reports from personnel, ensuring that the evacuations were underway. Security teams swept each floor, verifying that all non-essential personnel were leaving as they had been instructed. Additional teams assisted the research teams in securing their work, and the halls were filled with teams carrying sensitive materials, ferrying them to the Deep Storage facility far below. He watched the proceedings on the security feeds, keeping an eye on their progress.

    ¡°Report, Valentine, how are we doing with evacs?¡± Szostak asked, the weight of the proceedings keeping his interactions as brief as possible.

    ¡°Not happy with how slowly it¡¯s moving, Sir, but we¡¯re getting people out as fast as we can. The hazmat teams have been deployed, and the extra procedures there are keeping people moving. It seems to be doing the trick, though, we aren¡¯t seeing anyone question the evacuation, or stop for trivial things.¡± Aram Valentine saluted as he finished his report, and turned to speak to other agents. Calero stood beside him, accepting reports from the teams as they came and went, and keeping them from disturbing Szostak.

    A large screen showed the world news as reporters began to pick up the story of the viral contaminant leak. Chyrons scrolled continuously with updates for the public, in their typical alarmist fashion. A glance out the window showed Szostak a caravan of military vehicles making its way up the twisting mountain road to the facility. Searchlights played over the area as reporters and news helicopters circled, trying to capture footage of the chaotic scene unfolding. Scientists, support staff, and others were streaming out the front doors, masked and garbed in protective gear. Szostak turned away from the scene, cursing under his breath that idiots were headed up here out of idle curiosity. He prayed that the military would get these lunatics off his mountain, and away from the facility before they were caught in the crossfire.

    In the depths of the mountain below, Troy cataloged projects and materials as they came in, cross checking with previous records to ensure that nothing was missing. He adjusted his glasses, a trickle of sweat beading on the side of his head as he worked to get everything secured. He was exhausted, having worked at this pace since the meeting upstairs. Raden¡¯s research assistant, Sara Borrero worked next to him, shelving items as quickly as she could. Her long, blonde hair was tied back from her face, and she moved with practiced ease through the massive chamber. Troy tried to keep his focus on his work, and forced himself to return to the manifest in his hand as she bent to put something on a lower shelf.

    Keep it together, Troy! He thought to himself, shaking his head. I don¡¯t think this is the time to grow the balls to ask her out!

    ¡°Everything ok, Troy?¡± Sara asked him, coming back for another case of samples bound for the freezer. ¡°You seem a little distracted.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, fine, Sara. Just preparing for your everyday average possible end of the world.¡± He quipped, smiling at her in spite of the tension.

    ¡°Touche¡± She answered, slightly inclining her head to him. Her blue eyes sparkled with mischief. ¡°Guess we better finish up down here, before Szostak comes down here to personally kick our asses.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it crazy? All these years at Engram, knowing the things we do, seeing the things we see every day, and our own friends turn out to be the first contact the world has with other life.¡± Troy mused.

    ¡°Somehow it just fits, you know?¡± Sara replied with a shrug, turning back for a moment to face Troy. ¡°They¡¯re amazing, they¡¯ve always been amazing. We spend 8 years in grad school, and they sweep in from another world and show us up.¡± She grinned. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s get this over with.¡±

    <hr>

    Below the surface of his namesake world, Tenebris manifested himself in the darkness of the caverns. His left arm was misshapen, ending in a crude club. He was still missing part of a leg, but he paid it no mind. A sickly green glow filled the cavern as he wielded his twisted version of the power of Light. Remnants of shattered and broken teeth filled a hideous smile as he moved toward the barrier that had been his prison. He probed it with his power, which no longer relied on the consumption of beasts and creatures that crept along the surface. As he drove his energy into it, the barrier gave way, and blinked out of existence. Tenebris was free. The sound of his mad laughter echoed as he began to deform again, oozing his way through the cracks and crevices of the ground toward the surface.

    As he coalesced again on the surface of his world, for the first time since the Lumhin had dared to defy him, the life around him seemed to shrink away. He stood looking at the sky, where he could see his mother Elthys, and her sister, Tyris. Their light shone in the reaches of space, appearing as twin pinpoints of light above him. Tenebris longed for vengeance. He would not be able to overcome them now, but he would find a way. If they would not submit to him, he would kill them. He would begin by destroying their beloved Lumhin. He would slay those who would not serve him. Allowing himself to disintegrate again, he began to move upward into the sky, and into the dark of space. His mind was bent on a distant world, where his quarry awaited his punishment.

 Chapter 8

    In the depths of space, Tenebris moved through the vacuum, unbothered by it as his dark essence surged past worlds and stars. Occasionally he rested, stopping to devour the life he felt on planets he cared nothing for, and would never see again. With every lightyear he grew stronger and more terrible, he was truly the stuff of nightmares. He took pleasure in taking physical form, leaving terror in his wake. He also probed, ever seeking, and ever searching for his prey.

    He could feel them, their tiny insignificant presences, and he taunted them. He relished their fear, their anxiety, their torment. Even as he reached out to their minds again, he recoiled violently, repelled by a new presence. His mother¡¯s power burned, it angered him. How was she there, with them? How could they call on her? In his anger and his madness, he could not understand.

    ¡°Tenebris.¡± The voice burned like acid through his mind. Had he been manifest in physical form, Tenebris would have cried out.

    No! NO! She cannot stop me! She cannot find me! Tenebris raged within himself. I will kill her! I will kill them all!

    ¡°Tenbris. You will turn back.¡± Elthys spoke within her son¡¯s mind again. ¡°Your wickedness will be your undoing. Cease this. Repent.¡±

    Tenebris did not acknowledge her. More driven than ever before, he surged ahead, drawing ever closer to Earth and the vengeance he thirsted for. As he crossed the expanse of space, he became dimly aware of other, lesser things near the two betrayers. Intrigued, he probed them, but found their essence so dull, and so primitive that they were too far beneath his contempt. They would not bring him any pleasure, and they were not worth his time.

    <hr>

    Onyx facility churned with activity as those within continued to prepare for the coming onslaught. Tactical teams from the United States armed forces were arrayed around the perimeter, ensuring that no one crossed onto the grounds, or approached the facility for any reason. The airspace around the facility had been deemed restricted, forbidding the news helicopters from continuing to circle overhead. As night fell, an eerie quiet settled over the building and grounds.

    Whisper gazed out the window. She could feel each life, each presence in the darkness outside. Now nearly recovered, she had command of her memories, and her power. She had been with Raden for hours, exploring it, relearning it, growing more confident as her true nature came out. She could name faces now, people from her life. She remembered her work before Engram, before she had ever seen a human being. She remembered lifetimes, places, distant worlds. Her mind settled once more on the paper that still lay folded in her pocket, containing a face she now recalled with an ache in her heart. She turned from the window, and back to Raden where he sat, resting from the exertion of working with her. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Raddanech, I need to talk to you.¡± She said quietly, addressing him by his true name. ¡°We can¡¯t do this alone, I need to go to him¡­¡±

    ¡°Whisper, do you not remember what it took to save his life? To dissuade the Council from destroying him then? They granted him mercy only because of your father, and his intercession. They could not kill in cold blood, in spite of what you had done. If he returns, they may not see it that way a second time.¡± Raddanech answered levelly. ¡°My love, I know how much he meant to you then, and still means to you now. But if we invoke his aid, you risk losing him to Tenebris, and to the Council.¡±

    ¡°I know he would be at risk, but I also know that he wouldn¡¯t refuse us. Maybe it¡¯s horrible of me, and selfish of me, but he could be the difference between driving back Tenebris, or seeing our friends hurt...our other friends¡­¡± She faltered. She wanted desperately to see him again...the one she had created. ¡°He loves you too, Raddanceh, he always did. He knew you were everything to me. These people are innocent, he would want to protect them.¡±

    ¡°There isn¡¯t time, Whisper. We need to go to the Council, we need their support. We can¡¯t go off elsewhere, Saxe and the others are counting on us.¡± Raddanech explained patiently. ¡°Tenebris isn¡¯t going to wait on our whims, he is getting closer. Can¡¯t you feel him?¡±

    An involuntary shudder ran through her as she reached out, feeling the dark presence of Tenebris and realizing it was no longer just a whisper from her dream. He was real, and he was coming. ¡°I can.¡± She said simply. ¡°But there is a way. You go to the Council, ask their help. I will go to Ion.¡±

    ¡°You expect me to stand by and leave you alone, now of all times?¡± Raddanech rose to his feet, the intensity of his passion flashing in his deep green eyes. ¡°What if he follows you, hmm? You are carrying his mother¡¯s light. We don¡¯t know what he will do.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I do expect you to. You swore yourself to me. You promised yourself to me as my Guardian in the Light. I need to do this. And we are wasting precious time arguing.¡± Whisper answered, her own voice raised in anger.

    ¡°By the light of our Stars, you are stubborn!¡± Raddanech said, sighing in exasperation as he took Whisper into his arms. ¡°You are stubborn, and foolish, and light help me, I love you. I will do this for you, against every ounce of my judgement.¡±

    Whisper closed her eyes and hugged him tightly, then reached up to kiss him softly. He had always been the only one that understood her, that believed in her. ¡°Thank you. Thank you so much for trusting me. You know I wouldn¡¯t do this if I thought it would only make things worse. Ion really can help. We should go.¡± She said, reluctantly breaking their embrace.

    Raddanech was the first to depart, calling a gateway to Inasban, their home. He wove Light energy into a doorway, which glowed with blinding intensity and power as he stepped through it. It blinked out as suddenly as it had appeared, taking him far from Earth, and far from Whisper.

    Once he had gone, Whisper repeated the process. Her own power was now so intense that the air crackled with it as she wove a doorway to a different destination. Without hesitation, she stepped through and onto the surface of Lumhia, Inasban¡¯s moon. Darkness surrounded her as she let the doorway close behind her.

 Chapter 9

    In the lush forest of Lumhia, Whisper made her way through the growth as quickly as she could. There was so much life around her it was breathtaking, and it was hard not to stop and marvel at the sights, sounds, and smells of it all. It was beautiful, and so alive. Among Lumhia¡¯s bounty, Whisper¡¯s power surged. She was wrapped in the Light of the Prime Aspect herself where she slept far below the surface.

    Lost in her own thoughts, Whisper stumbled over a thick root, landing hard in the underbrush. She cursed her distracted mind, and brought herself back to the matter at hand. She could vaguely remember where Ion had gone all those distant years ago. Her mind filled with images of him, of them together.

    She had been so lonely, and had hurt so deeply. The Council had once again reminded her that engaging in sentimental relationships and being governed by her feelings would not be tolerated. Raddanech was her sworn Guardian in the Light, his life was to protect hers, not to be overcome by foolish emotions such as love. Was she mad, entertaining this ridiculous behavior? The Enlightened had berated Raddanech, calling him a traitor to his sworn duty, and a blight on their honor. He had stormed out of the chamber, enraged at being deprived of her.

    In her grief, Whisper had longed for companionship, for anyone or anything that could stop the pain of losing him, of having to crush their feelings for one another under the weight of duty and tradition. She had isolated herself, throwing herself into her work. She would never accept another, and would never have children. But she could create something. By an act even more forbidden than loving Raddanech, she would give her blood, the power of the Lumhin race, and she would create life. She had experimented, worked tirelessly. She had studied and built. She had assembled a framework of lumhinsteel, from the depths of Lumhia¡¯s interior. She fashioned it with her power, and from her own cells, her own blood, she grew living tissue, fusing it to the body. Her first attempt had failed, had never awoken, and she had grieved his loss too. Still, she carried on. When he was complete, when living organs began to work within him, growing around his endoskeleton, it was then that she had named him. Ion. Her child. Then, she had poured her life force into him, draining herself nearly to death in the hope that he would live. She had imbued him with the Aspect of Light, with the healing I-cells of their people, which held the power to repair all but the most deadly of wounds. True to their nature, they had constructed what was missing. Ion had opened his eyes, and had known her as his creator.

    When the Council had discovered what she had done, they had banished her, and her creation. They refused to suffer her presence again. Whisper and Ion had returned to Lumhia, and alone, they had grown together. She had taught him, guided his awakening. Nothing could repair the void in her heart that longed for Raddanech, but finally she had someone that loved and needed her. What Whisper could never have accounted for, was Ion¡¯s own desires, his own ambitions. Even with his devotion to the one he knew as his mother, he was not whole. Ion himself had desired to create, just as she had. What he had built was unlike anything the Lumhin would have conceived. He named them the C.O.R.E - Corporal Over Robotic Entities. They were not sentient in their own right, though their appearance was humanoid. They were extensions of him, through which he could channel his ever-growing power. They were terrifying in their capabilities, and it had been thrilling to Whisper. Not only had she not stopped Ion from creating them, she had aided him. Her wealth of knowledge in biochemistry and biotechnology had been at his disposal, and she had marveled at what they had done. Then Tenebris had come. He had turned against his mother, her sister, the Lumhin, his sisters and Lumhia. With murderous desire had he slain, wanting power, and to rule over the System.

    It was only in their most desperate need that the Enlightened had relented and deigned to call on Whisper, to consider asking her help to face the rampaging Aspect. Drawn into the conflict, as one of the most powerful of their people, Whisper had fought beside Raddanech and her parents, desperately driving back his onslaught. Elthys herself had awakened, and come to the aid of the Lumhin. She had subdued her son, imprisoned him. They were victorious, but Lusamdra, her father, had sent her through a doorway, horribly mangled and wounded in the battle.

    <hr>

    Whisper was jarred back to the present by a touch on her mind, one that she knew so very well. ¡°You have returned.¡± Ion spoke to her mind. ¡°I had thought you were dead.¡±

    ¡°I nearly was, Ion.¡± She sent back, speaking to his mind as they had so often done before. ¡°Tenebris is back¡­We do not know how he freed himself, but he intends to destroy me, and Raddanech. He is so hungry for revenge. But there is more. He means to do so at the cost of the lives of others. Raden and I found a home with a new people. They are so fragile, so delicate, but they are amazing.¡± Whisper told him, falling back into use of her pet name for her love. ¡°Ion, I need your help.¡± This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    She continued to walk as they conversed with each other, and his presence guided her. Though her memory of the lab was sharp in her mind, Lumhia had changed, and nature had reclaimed much of the ruins of the ancient Lumhin city that had once thrived on her surface. She began to encounter more broken paving stones and signs of the past, but most of the structures were unrecognizable. She picked her way over a mound where part of a wall poked through the soil and leaves.

    ¡°If they saved you, and gave you comfort, then I will help them.¡± Ion sent back after a time. ¡°And mother, I have been busy.¡±

    Whisper emerged into what had once been a clearing, but was now showing signs of being overgrown with foliage. Her breath caught as she came into view of the abandoned building where she had made her lab. It had been home to her, but had also been a place of exile and pain. She hesitated in what had once been a manicured lawn, but was now wild with weeds, young trees, and brush. The moonlight filtered through the branches and rested on the doorway, as if Lumhia herself was welcoming Whisper home.

    ¡°I am here¡± She told Ion, knowing that he would be watching her. She knew that he had been able to follow her progress, even when she seemed to be alone.

    The doors hissed gently as they slid apart, leading into an open reception area. Whisper stared in amazement at the scene before her. She had expected to see disrepair, to see the lab ravaged by time. Instead, the polished floors glistened, and bright lights shone from hanging light fixtures above her. The furnishings remained as she remembered them, as if frozen in time. They had been kept pristine, and it seemed as if a receptionist should come forward to greet her. As the thought crossed her mind, Ion emerged from the long hallway leading to the living area they had built together.

    Whisper¡¯s eyes locked onto Ion, taking in the sight of him. He was smaller in stature than Raddanech, and his lean form belied his unnatural strength. His pale hair carried the slightest hint of blue, as if made of the Light energy that coursed through Lumhia in such abundance. It had grown long, and he wore it tied back at the base of his neck. His eyes met hers, microcircuitry visible in the brilliant blue irises.

    ¡°Mother, welcome home.¡± Ion greeted her, moving to embrace her warmly. ¡°Do you approve of what I¡¯ve done?¡± He asked, gesturing to the expansive room around them.

    ¡°It¡¯s incredible... I don¡¯t know what I expected. I was afraid that you would have left, maybe moved on to your own life. You didn¡¯t need to wait for me, Ion.¡± Whisper said gently, imagining his life here alone.

    ¡°This is my life, Mother. We built this, and I was born here. I will not give this up.¡± Ion said, stepping back and looking at Whisper. ¡°I feared that you were dead, but I hoped I was wrong, I hoped you would return.¡±

    ¡°Whatever it takes, Ion, I can¡¯t allow us to be torn apart again.¡± Whisper reassured him, her hand resting on his arm as she spoke. ¡°I will not lose you again, and I will not lose Raddanech. We may never be allowed to return to Inasban, but even so, I am happy now.¡±

    ¡°And yet, if Tenebris is free, you come with dire news. You, Raddanech and I cannot overcome him alone, even if I wield the C.O.R.E. in numbers. You speak of confronting a Prime Aspect, for the second time.¡± Ion replied, tilting his head slightly in a way that seemed so human to Whisper.

    ¡°I have the Blessing, and with your help, I believe we can turn him back. Raddanech has gone to the Council to see if they will stop choking on their pride long enough to contain Tenebris.¡± Whisper answered, a glint of anger in her eyes as she thought of the suffering the selfishness of the Enlightened had caused. ¡°If they won¡¯t help us now, we¡¯ll go alone. The people of Earth, and my friends, don¡¯t deserve to die, and I won¡¯t let him hurt them.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± Ion said simply, as he crossed the room to the opposing hallway. ¡°I will bring the C.O.R.E.¡±

    Ion called the elevator, and descended into the labs below. He emerged into a cavernous room, lined with fluid filled pods. Within each one, a body slept. Their ghostly white forms lay unmoving, dormant and unaware. The C.O.R.E. were pieces of Ion, and he did not allow himself to think of the cost of the upcoming confrontation with Tenebris.

    As he entered the room and approached a console, he entered commands into it, activating 12 of the inert forms. If he brought too many, more would be lost to him. If he did not bring enough, their fight would be lost. Fluid drained from the selected chambers, and the glass lids that held them in place slid downward into the end of the tubes. Ion closed his eyes, focusing his power. He joined his mind with them, taking control of their functions. As he did so, they rose. Each was identical to the next, and each was built in his own image. Their hair was the same hue, but was kept closely cropped to their heads. Their eyes were white, and had no visible sign of an iris or other anatomy. Their sightless forms marched toward the door, and under his direction, he brought them back to Whisper where she waited for him.

    As Ion and the C.O.R.E. emerged from the elevator, Whisper could only stare. They unnerved her, and she kept her focus on Ion himself as he approached her again. She nodded to him, needing no further words. She called again on her power, and brought back the doorway to Earth. Once her apartment was visible to her on the other side, Whisper stepped through, followed by Ion. The C.O.R.E. emerged two by two, assembling in formation in her living quarters. Grim determination showed on her face as she looked at them. Until Raddanech returned, they would wait.

 Chapter 10

    Raddanech emerged through the gateway, stepping out into the rooms he once called home. Being here felt strange to him, and he felt the urge to conclude his business there and return to Whisper as quickly as he could. It surprised him to see that his personal belongings had remained untouched, and that someone had even entered to clean the apartment. His eyes fell onto the weapons rack that stood against one wall, displaying his staves and a broadsword that he had wielded with deadly strength during his service.

    Walking to the rack, he ran his hand over the hilt of the sword, looking around for it¡¯s sheath. It stood in the corner, where it had been for quite some time. The sword was, after all, a point of pride to him, and Raddanech had wanted to enjoy the beauty of the piece. As he drew it from the stand, light glinted off the long blade, and he smiled at the feeling of holding it again. It had been as much an extension of him as anything, and countless foes had fallen to it throughout the years. The pommel stone came to life under his touch, the etherstone amplifying his power as he held it. He felt it surge through him, making him feel more alive than he had in so long. He sheathed that magnificent weapon, and strapped it to his back. The weight of it was not noticeable after years of practice.

    Raddanech turned back to the rack, removing an ornate Lumhin battle staff from it. He had not dared to hope he would hold it again, as precious an artifact as it was. It was topped with an etherstone orb, held in place by engraved figures of Elthys and Tyris. The stone itself was imbued with their power. So rarely had the Supreme Aspects granted their power to another being, and such had not been done in recent memory.

    ¡°Well now, this may turn the tide.¡± Raddanech thought to himself. ¡°Perhaps the Light blesses me still.¡±  Taking the staff in hand, he turned to leave, securing the door behind him as if he had only been leaving for the afternoon.

    As he strode purposefully down the corridors, startled looks and even fear crossed the faces of people who he had served alongside. He did not slow or stop to engage with them, instead continuing toward the Chamber of the Enlightened. As he neared it, two of his former command stepped into his path. They could not conceal their surprise at the appearance of their commander.

    ¡°Raddanech?! Is that you?¡± Haleth exclaimed, forgetting his station and stepping forward to grasp Raddanech¡¯s hand firmly. ¡°What in the name of our Stars are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°It is good to see you too, my friend.¡± Raddanech answered, grasping his friend¡¯s hand in return. ¡°I do not imagine the Council will share your enthusiasm, but at present, I have no choice. I need to see them.¡± He nodded to Jassin, who stood staring at him unabashedly. ¡°You look well, Jassin. Happy to see you haven¡¯t been sliced in two!¡± He quipped brightly, momentarily forgetting the tension of the mission at hand.

    ¡°You know they have told us to detain you, should you ever return, don¡¯t you?¡± Jassin said, discomfort clear in his voice. His long, dark hair fell over his shoulder as he shook his head and sighed.

    ¡°Ignore the order.¡± Raddanech told him, as if suggesting the menu for the evening meal.

    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious, Raddanech. You¡¯re asking us to be the next ones exiled, after all we¡¯ve worked for.¡± Haleth answered, a pained look in his amber eyes.

    ¡°When the Council hears what I have to say, I think even they will be forced to put aside petty grudges, and to hear me out. It is a situation that threatens us all. The people of Inasban, and the people of the world where Whisper and I have stayed. Tenebris is free, Haleth.¡± Raddanech met the man¡¯s gaze with his own. His voice carried the gravity of the moment, and Haleth and Jassin looked at each other before nodding and opening the doors. They fell into step behind him, each to one side.

    <hr>

    ¡°You.¡± High Elder Ashade looked down at Raddanech from the dais, contempt and scorn plainly visible on his face. ¡°What is the meaning of this? How dare you disgrace this Chamber?¡±

    ¡°Your sensibilities will have to wait, Ashade.¡± Raddanech said, standing unflinching before the Enlightened. ¡°Do you think I would return here without reason? Do you think I still care about the opinions of those who refuse to acknowledge that we are more than automatons?

    ¡°Do not presume to disrespect me, or the Council, Raddanech. I could destroy you where you stand.¡± Ashade stated. His golden eyes blazed with his indignation. As he stood from his seat, his long, white hair caught the light as if spun from the stars. The ornate, silver circlet on his head marked his station as the highest authority of the Lumhin people.

    ¡°Would you spill blood in the very Chamber of the Enlightened?¡± Raddanech challenged him. ¡°I honor your station, Ashade, but I did not come here to be subject to another tirade. I came because your help is required.¡±

    ¡°Help? You?¡± Ashade barked out a short, derisive laugh.

    ¡°Not me. Yourselves, Inasban, and a population of innocents.¡± Raddanech replied, refusing to allow his emotions to surface.

    Before Ashade could reply, Viereth rose from his own seat, gesturing to Ashade to allow him to speak. ¡°What do you mean, Raddanech? Speak plainly.¡± He said, his resonant voice calm and measured.

    ¡°Tenebris is free, and Whisper lives. In the time she and I have been gone, he has been able to send her dreams, nightmares. It was his way of tormenting her. She could not resist him, or protect herself, her power was beyond her reach after he was done with her. However, she is now restored.¡± Raddanech explained. ¡°The Blessing of Elthys awoke, and Tenebris felt it. He intends to have his revenge. He is bound for Earth, the world that Lusamdra¡¯s gateway opened to when he sent Whisper.¡± This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    Startled gasps came from several of the Enlightened as they rose and began to converse in hushed tones. Raddanech waited patiently, content to observe as they deliberated. It was clear that there was dissent among them, several of the Councilors were visibly angry.

    ¡°I am joining this mission, Raddanech.¡± Haleth stated. He was not going to stand by and let his friend be threatened, or worse. ¡°We know why you left, and if it¡¯s any consolation, Jassin and I agree with you. Times are changing, and more of the people desire freedom.¡±

    ¡°Aye.¡± Jassin said in agreement. ¡°Tradition is meant to carry on a way of life, but we can¡¯t stand by as ages pass, and refuse to acknowledge that time does not stand still. It only matters if the people say it matters, and some of us are sick of it.¡±

    Raddanech smiled at them both with pride. They had fought and bled beside him countless times. They had wives and children, they had lives of their own, and yet they served. It felt out of place to converse with them now, but it was welcome. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dream of leaving you behind. Unless of course you have an issue with public displays of affection.¡± A roguish smile played on his lips.

    ¡°What?? Finally??¡± Haleth grinned back at Raddenech. ¡°It¡¯s about time, you crusty old relic! As if there was ever really a question. I knew she wouldn¡¯t just take the Council¡¯s orders forever.¡±

    ¡°This week.¡± Raddanech answered with a shrug. ¡°She couldn¡¯t remember me for who I was, or where we came from. She didn¡¯t remember our relationship, or that it was forbidden. She actually said she loved me before it came back to her, so I suppose you could say I won her twice. She no longer cares what others believe, we are together.¡±

    The conversation was interrupted as Ashade and the others finished their deliberation and returned to their seats. ¡°We will intervene in this matter.¡± Ashade stated, his hands folded on the carved marble table that ran the length of the dais. ¡°Had this danger been only to yourself or Whisper, we would not do so. But as innocents are involved, it would not be just to allow them to fall to Tenbris. He presents a threat greater than most species can defend themselves from. As you still wield the power of the Supreme aspects, and Whisper does as well, we do not see the need to send a large force. While he is powerful, Tenebris is still recovering from his mother¡¯s dismantling of his physical form.

    ¡°We have chosen to have Chevor accompany you. His power as a Lightbearer should be more than sufficient when combined with your own. We wish to minimize loss of life, and our goal is to drive Tenebris away from Earth and its population. We want you to attempt to bring him back to his world. From there, we will be able to contain him again.¡± Ashade finished. Some of his previous anger had receded. He was angered by the contempt for the Council and its teachings, but Raddanech was still Lumhin, still one of his people in spite of his actions.

    ¡°Thank you, your Eminence. A sound strategy, indeed. If Tenebris does attempt to subdue Earth, or to threaten other life, we will take whatever action necessary to remove him.¡± Raddanech inclined his head respectfully. ¡°While I don¡¯t agree with blind obedience, I do respect you, Ashade. You know that I would not bring intentional harm to our people, or cause them pain.¡±

    ¡°Go Raddanech, in the Light of Elthys and Tyris.¡± Ashade answered with the formal blessing. ¡°May they light your way and bring you home victorious.¡±

    Raddanech smiled. Hearing the traditional words spoken to their people before a battle meant a lot to him. He understood Ashade¡¯s meaning, that he was forgiven. It pained him to know that there would be further conflict when the Council learned of his and Whisper¡¯s union, but that was a matter for the future. He nodded to Haleth and Jassin, and turned to leave. The two men followed him from the chamber.

    ¡°That one is such trouble.¡± Chevor remarked as he stood. ¡°You have my word, Ashade, I will temper Raddanech¡¯s fire. He is young, to wield the power he does.¡± He added, with a soft chuckle.

    ¡°See that you do, Chevor, before he and Lusamdra¡¯s girl get us all killed.¡± Ashade answered with a sigh. ¡°They remind me of myself, at that age, and that doesn¡¯t inspire confidence.¡±

    ¡°You certainly did bring your own share of Chaos, before you were all high and mighty¡± Chevor replied with a wry smile. ¡°In fact, I seem to remember certain incidents¡­¡± His golden eyes danced with merriment. ¡°Now if you¡¯ll excuse me, I have a planet to save.¡± He threw a salute to Ashade, and turned to leave. He brushed a stray strand of tangerine hair from his face as he walked, headed to his rooms.

    <hr>

    Chevor gathered his gear for the coming mission, packing with the precision of one long accustomed to service. With a practiced eye, he selected one of his favorite battle staves, securing it to his back in a harness he wore over his torso. It was unimposing, and to many would have seemed quite plain. Carvings decorated the length of it in elegant script. It translated to ¡°In Service of the Light¡±, and it embodied his life and his work. He did not need glamour, or powerful weapons. He was a weapon in his own right. He was a Lightbearer, a term the Lumhin had coined at his birth. While they all wielded the power of the Aspect of Light, Inasban, he was imbued with the power of the Stars, Elthys and Tyris. It was a phenomenon none had seen before, and no one knew what it meant for their people. The Council had tried to convince him that he was the most powerful among them, and as such, should lead them, but Chevor had no appetite for power. He had declined, content to aid them any way he could as a member of the Enlightened.

    Finished with his preparations, Chevor slung his pack over his shoulder, and left his apartment. He made his way to Raddanech¡¯s quarters, and knocked before opening the door. Raddanech, Haleth, and Jassin were completing their own packing, and checking their gear as they got ready to leave. ¡°Anything more I should know before we arrive?¡± Chevor asked, greeting them with a raised hand.

    ¡°I should probably warn you that Whisper has gone for Ion¡­¡± Raddanech began, a frown coming to his face. ¡°I tried to talk her out of it, but you know how she can be, she would hear none of it, and insisted that he could help.¡±

    ¡°Probably best that you didn¡¯t mention that to Ashade. He¡¯ll find out in time, but for now, we had best focus on the mission at hand. All things considered, Whisper is probably not wrong. Controversial as his creation may be, he is very formidable.¡± Chevor replied. ¡°Please know, Raddanech, I believe as you do that love and emotions are not wrong. They are our nature, and I have seen the light they bring. While one cannot be governed entirely by impulse, or simply what we feel, we are complicated beings.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Chevor. I appreciate your support. It¡¯s good to know that the man I have at my side is not here to spy for the Enlightened.¡± Raddanech smiled, closing his pack and looping the straps over his shoulder.

    ¡°Ashade doesn¡¯t mean to be the thorn that he is. I think he simply doesn¡¯t understand that we are changing as a people. I myself am something outside of what we know, no one knows how or why I have the power that I do. I¡¯m sure Elthys and Tyris had their own motivations. It wasn¡¯t an accident.¡± Chevor replied, his golden eyes troubled. ¡°They will reveal it in their own time. For now, we need to stop Tenebris.¡±

    ¡°Agreed, we¡¯ve taken long enough. Let¡¯s go.¡± Raddanech answered as he wove the gateway. ¡°After you.¡± He gestured toward the opening and Haleth, Jassin, and Chevor obliged, stepping through into Whisper¡¯s apartment as the doorway closed behind them.

 Chapter 11

    Lusamdra stood at the window in the fading twilight, watching Elthys and Tyris dip below the horizon. Leltia went to him, wrapping her arms around him and resting her head against his shoulder. ¡°My husband, please reconsider. Please try to see reason. If you show up unannounced, and upset carefully laid plans, there is no telling what could happen.¡±

    With a heavy sigh, Lusamdra took his wife¡¯s hands in his own. ¡°She made it, my love. Whisper made it there alive, and I can¡¯t risk losing her again. I know everyone believes I¡¯ll act rashly, or will endanger the mission if I go, but they¡¯re wrong. She¡¯s our daughter. How can anyone ask me to sit here and wait?

    Leltia reached up and rested her hand on Lusamdra¡¯s cheek, caressing it softly. ¡°Would you ask me to lose both of you? Tenebris was nearly victorious last time we encountered him. If not for Elthys and Tyris, we would have perished. I think we need to trust our daughter, and trust Raddanech. He intends to ask to be wedded to her, nothing could take him from her side. We would also risk further enraging Tenebris. Do not forget that he longs so deeply for vengeance. We were there, we defied him and we fought against him. His wrath would be ever so much stronger if the three of you were in the same place.¡±

    ¡°Leltia, I do not want anyone to be lost, that is why I must go. You are wise, and please understand how difficult it is for me to have to refuse you. If only I could afford to take your counsel, and to stay here.¡± Lusamdra answered, looking deeply into her lavender eyes. ¡°All of these long years, we could only wonder if she was still alive. She was so badly wounded when I sent her through the gateway. Now we finally know the answer, and she needs me.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± Leltia replied, dropping her eyes and looking down at their joined hands. Her soft, pale blue hair fell over her shoulders as she sighed softly. ¡°I know that I can¡¯t stop you from going, but I had to speak my mind. When will you leave?¡± She asked.

    ¡°Immediately. If the others realized I was planning to go, they would interfere. They would never consent to it, and I don¡¯t feel that waiting around is wise.¡± Lusamdra answered, kissing his wife softly on the top of her head. ¡°If you are questioned, tell the Council that you tried to stop me.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t cover this up, that will only worsen matters. I intend to inform them as soon as you¡¯re away.¡± Leltia answered, looking up to meet her husband¡¯s gaze. ¡°Even though we disagree on many things, they are our friends, our people. We shouldn¡¯t see them as the enemy.¡±

    ¡°You are right, my love. I know that I let my feelings rule me at times, and I know the Council only wants what¡¯s best for our people. It¡¯s just... Light, they¡¯re stubborn sometimes! They don¡¯t know when to compromise, when to see another perspective.¡± Lusamdra shook his head as he spoke. His amethyst eyes betrayed a hint of sadness.

    ¡°Come now, love. We shouldn¡¯t waste any more time.¡± Leltia said matter-of-factly. She knew all too well that when her husband made up his mind, arguing the matter was senseless. She walked across the room and pulled his Defense Force issued pack from the closet, already packed and ready to go. She favored Lusamdra with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

    ¡°Leltia! You knew I would do this.¡± The simple statement brought a smile to his lips. His wife was a remarkable woman. ¡°You really are too good for me. I don¡¯t deserve you.¡± He hugged her closely before pulling back, and looking into her eyes once again. ¡°I promise you, we will return to you. Whisper, Raddanech and I will come home when this is over.¡±

    ¡°Of course I knew, but even so, I had to try to talk some sense into you.¡± Leltia answered, inclining her head in a slight nod. ¡°You had better go, before anyone comes to collect you for the next Council meeting.¡±

    Lusamdra nodded as he took his pack from his wife. He kissed her softly again before turning away. He called on his power, seeking the signature of Raddanech¡¯s gate. He could see the remnants of light energy where it wove through the reaches of space. It was a simple matter to call his own for the same location. He raised his hand in a final wave to Leltia before stepping through, allowing the gateway to close behind him.

    <hr>

    Raddanech¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as another gateway opened directly behind him, and Lusamdra stepped out into the room. ¡°What in the name of our Stars are you doing here?¡± He asked, turning to face the new arrival. ¡°Any other surprises we should be aware of?¡±

    ¡°You know I had to be here, Raddanech. Council¡¯s wishes aside, my place is here.¡± Lusamdra answered, turning to find his daughter staring back at him. ¡°Whisper¡­¡± he said, unable to find the words.

    ¡°Father!¡± Whisper exclaimed, running to him and throwing her arms around him. She was too overwhelmed to say more, but a tear ran down her cheek as he returned her embrace. It was surreal to her, she could not believe that her father was there with her, after so long.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to interrupt¡­¡± Chevor said solemnly. ¡°But I think we should be preparing. Look¡± He said simply, pointing toward the window. In the distance, the sky was darkening at an unnatural rate, thick clouds gathering in the atmosphere and seeming to sink toward the ground. The wind howled as it blew leaves and debris against the side of the facility. The air itself was becoming thicker, and as they watched, the leaves of the trees further down the mountain began to darken and curl. The life seemed to drain from the plants and trees in a darkening line that was creeping slowly toward them. The defenders stood for a moment, realizing with sickening clarity that their time was up. Tenebris was here. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Shaken from his tender moment with Whisper, Lusamdra watched the horror begin to unfold before them. As he turned back from it, he noticed Ion¡¯s presence for the first time, his eyes meeting the otherworldly gaze of the man his daughter had created. This was not the first encounter they had experienced, but Lusamdra was still unnerved by him. He knew that Whisper cherished Ion, and for that, he accepted his presence.

    ¡°Oh Light!¡± Whisper said, her voice shaken as it occurred to her that there were men outside. ¡°The military! We have to get those people inside at once, and lock down before anyone else goes out there.¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Raddanech said, nodding to Haleth and Jassin. He was in command now, preparing for war. ¡°You two, get up to Security as fast as you can, we have to get everyone inside. Szostak will be able to handle that. Ion, bring the C.O.R.E. down to ground level, and cover the doors, just in case there¡¯s a panic. We can¡¯t have anyone doing anything stupid. Once we seal the doors, that¡¯s it, we can¡¯t expend energy on anyone left outside. We go to war, my friends. May the Stars light our way, and bring us home victorious.¡± Giving the blessing, Raddanech took the battle staff from his back, and holding it firmly, he motioned for the others to follow as he left the room, headed for the ground floor, and the coming battle.

    <hr>

    Szostak looked up in surprise as a shimmering blue-white gateway emerged in the center of his situation room, and two more of the deathly pale beings stepped through. He caught the briefest glimpse of Whisper¡¯s apartment, filled to the brim with more of the alien people. Nothing surprised him now, and he simply nodded at the two new arrivals.

    ¡°Tenebris is here.¡± Haleth reported, recognizing the unmistakable presence of a commander. ¡°Raddanech says to inform you that we need to get everyone inside immediately and secure the facility.¡±

    ¡°He does, does he? Last I checked, I¡¯m still in command of my forces here, and the special forces teams are under the command of the Pentagon and the President.¡± Szostak remarked sarcastically. ¡°Might I ask who you are?¡±

    ¡°My name is Haleth. And I¡¯m afraid there is no time for formalities. Take a look for yourself.¡± Haleth said, gesturing toward the window.

    Szostak turned and went to the window, and a startled gasp escaped him. The darkening line of decay continued to creep forward, and was steadily drawing nearer to Onyx facility. ¡°The hell?¡± he questioned, turning back to Haleth.

    ¡°That is Tenebris, or rather his influence. We believe that he may be consuming the life force of the growth he is encountering, in an attempt to strengthen himself. It is unclear if it is only the plants or if it affects other living things as well. Unfortunately, we won¡¯t be able to see that until it¡¯s far too late. It¡¯s your command, and you¡¯re free to take the advice or not, but we don¡¯t want to see anyone killed if we can help it.¡± Haleth explained.

    ¡°Not a risk I¡¯m willing to take with our people.¡± Szostak answered. ¡°Pardon my abrupt behavior, I¡¯m just damn tired of being the last to know what the hell is happening.¡± He added with a sigh.

    ¡°I understand, and we¡¯re on the same team.¡± Haleth answered, inclining his head toward Szostak. ¡°It isn¡¯t every day one has to face a Prime Aspect, and they are frightening beings, even to us.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s move.¡± Szostak answered, stepping around the desk and keying the facility intercom. ¡°Attention! All personnel still present remain inside the facility. Repeat, all personnel still present remain inside the facility.¡±

    He motioned to Haleth and moved from the command center at a brisk jog, heading for the elevator. He selected the ground floor, and when they arrived, he hurried to the front door where the guards were positioned, and were also now surrounded by the C.O.R.E. Haleth moved aside, and Szostak shoved his way past several of the automatons, approaching his people. Outside, he could see several of the special forces teams, along with a number of facility personnel still trying to complete the evacuation. ¡°Get those people back inside, NOW!¡± Szostak ordered, shoving the door open and running outside into the gathering darkness. He quickly located Special Forces Commander Afton, patrolling the area outside. ¡°Afton! We need to clear everyone out of here! Get your boys inside! ALL of them!¡±

    ¡°Sir, my orders are to control the perimeter, and unless I hear otherwise, I can¡¯t leave my post.¡± Afton answered.

    ¡°Orders be damned, unless you want them all killed! This thing is sucking the life out of everything it touches.¡± Szostak explained. Without waiting for a reply, he turned and ran for the facility, shouting as he moved. ¡°EVERYONE INSIDE NOW!¡± He had done all he could, and he noted with satisfaction that everyone in sight was close behind him.

    Afton pulled his secure phone from his uniform pocket and dialed Command. He briefed the Secretary, and then issued orders to move his men inside. As they entered, they were stunned to see the eerie, inhuman, C.O.R.E, standing silent watch to either side of the hallway. Afton hurried them through, and directed his people into one of the large presentation rooms. As the men were proceeding into the room, he took one last look behind him. Before his eyes, he saw several people stop just short of the doors. They went still, and then seemed to transform. Their skin took on a sickening gray hue, and one of them screamed out as they were overcome by the approaching darkness. ¡°SECURE THOSE DOORS!¡± He shouted, and leapt into motion, pulling the front doors tightly shut and jamming the lock. He raced back into the interior set of doors and activated the airtight containment system that was intended to contain viral contaminants in the event of a leak. He watched in horror as the creatures that had been people moments before, began to throw themselves against the glass, attempting to gain access. They heard the bone-chilling sound of a disembodied laugh as Tenebris arrived at Onyx Facility.