《Synaptic Rank: Unbound》


 Chapter 1 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Arthros didn¡¯t want to waste a trip to Kleth¡¯altho, only to return with another mindless human husk. It was no secret that humans were comparatively pathetic to the rest of the sentient species in the star system, but Arthros was determined to recruit a suitable specimen nonetheless. He admired their spirit; it was their only real redeeming quality. Though, every failed attempt came with a brainless corpse, and a shred of doubt in his own instincts. Maybe the era of humans truly was dead, and the old blood that once made them something special had dried up. That thought disturbed him more than the atmospheric stench waiting for him when he landed; not for any love of their kind, but because he hated to be wrong.


    A mental image of Admiral Zludikai popped in his mind, and he scoffed at the disapproving frown knit into her features. He didn¡¯t deserve her frustration; he was the one sacrificing his sanity. How many times had he travelled here, only to pointlessly suffer through the noxious green gas that blanketed the planet¡¯s terrestrial surface?


    She would never understand anyways¡ªshe actually enjoyed obeying orders and following the rules. Hah! The very thought curled Arthros¡¯ lip in disgust. If he was being honest, his theory for a human recruit was bred from spite. He wanted to see the look on the Sovereignty''s faces when he put a human in one of their precious mechs.


    He just had to find one strong enough first¡ªone that wouldn¡¯t have their brain matter curdled the moment the integration test began.


    A sudden presence touched his mind, ¡°Kleth¡¯altho? You didn¡¯t tell me we were coming here.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t ask,¡± he growled back, the cabin empty except for him.


    He glanced at the close-range scanner, double-checking for the absence of any Corpos patrols. They wouldn¡¯t dare challenge his presence, but he wasn¡¯t in the mood for a conversation.


    If they did find his ship, the trademark design of its crescent-shaped wings should be enough to dissuade any attempt at contact. Not that they really had a chance of finding him. His ship was as black as the void, invisible against the backdrop of a starless space. Its non-reflective material gave it the appearance of a formless shadow.


    The voice spoke again, ¡°I didn¡¯t ask? How could I? You locked me in The Reckless¡¯ life support system.¡±


    The Reckless, an M-42 Novawolf Cruiser, felt more like Arthros¡¯ home than his own planet. If only he could explain that sentiment to the Admiral. Maybe then she would understand his agonizing need for time away. Yet, the condescending look on his old friend¡¯s face always soured any willingness he had to be vulnerable.


    ¡°Arthros?¡±


    He shouldn¡¯t have to justify his actions to her anyways, he was a legend! The owner of a ship that catalyzed a cascade of whispered excitement everywhere it travelled. A ship famed for its cargo: the Heavily Weaponized Neural Dragoon, or HWND for short. To most, that acronym spelled fear, but to Arthros, it meant joy. The only true source of joy he¡¯d ever had.


    ¡°Arthros, I know you can hear me.¡±


    He longed to climb inside the mech, but he would have to wait a little longer. The giant humanoid machine wasn¡¯t known for its subtlety, and if he wanted to remain inconspicuous, he would have to ignore his own burning temptations.


    ¡°Arthros!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± he snapped.


    He felt the presence in his mind recoil, followed by his own immediate regret.


    ¡°I missed you.¡±


    His regret vanished, and he let out an exasperated sigh. He didn¡¯t have time for her nonsense right now. He checked his mirrored reflection in the viewport¡¯s space-tempered glass. His eight-foot Hokkonian frame stared back. His clothes¡ªlong strips of white fabric wrapped horizontally around his limbs¡ªsagged on his hardened muscles. His slitted nostrils flared in distaste at his own disheveled appearance, and he began retightening the fabric on his forearms.


    ¡°You keep ignoring me.¡±


    Uniformity in appearance was of personal importance; a stark contrast to his disregard of the other rules. His long spines laid flat against his grey skin as he re-wound the cloth to cover them. Often, the spines betrayed his true emotions. He didn¡¯t want to risk the spines reacting to his anger, though there wasn¡¯t much he could do about the tiny appendages on his scalp. They were too long to be kept hidden with a hat, and he refused to wear a helmet.


    ¡°I think you look quite impressive.¡±


    Arthros snorted, ¡°You can¡¯t see me.¡±


    ¡°I know what your mind thinks you look like.¡±


    Arthros sighed.


    ¡°Why are we here?¡±


    ¡°You know why.¡± He tore his white eyes from the makeshift mirror, and glanced at the small holographic copy of the planet.


    The image floated a few inches above the console. The name, Kleth¡¯altho, was wrapped around it in translucent text. Arthros wasn¡¯t in any hurry to descend. He even debated turning back.


    ¡°It¡¯s not going to work, Arthros. You succeeded with other species, but humans are useless.¡±


    He muttered a curse, and tried his best to ignore her. How many times had he been there now¡ªa dozen? Two dozen? Yet the result never changed, and the Sovereignty¡¯s impatience with his frequent disappearances grew. He resisted the urge to spit on the floor. Curse the Sovereignty! His insubordination was their own fault. If it wasn''t for their blatant and belligerent speciesism, he probably would have been content to recruit within his own species. They drove him to this point.


    ¡°The Sovereignty is going to punish you for being here.¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t know,¡± he growled.


    There was little they could do without the Navy¡¯s authority anyway. With Admiral Zludikai¡¯s help, he was practically untouchable. He was the Navy¡¯s best: a prodigy HWND pilot. The Sovereignty wouldn¡¯t risk such a useful tool.


    Yet, despite his usual brazen disregard for the rules, this time was different. His instincts told him that this visit to Kleth¡¯altho would probably be his last, and his insubordinate stint would be coming to an end. He had noticed something different about the Admiral when she caught him leaving¡ªa strained worry that tightened the skin around her eyes.


    She was never worried.


    Arthros cursed again and violently pushed into the throttle. He had wasted enough time. The Reckless lurched forward and began a graceful descent into orbit.


    The planet expanded, and soon the blurry impressions on the surface took shape. Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s jagged mountains protruded like splintered wood. Ravines gouged the surface like the claw marks of some great celestial beast, while clouds of noxious green gas pooled along the surface of the barren wastelands. The only visible sign of civilization were the massive refineries that dotted the landscape. The cities were either underground or built at the bottom of the pits, anywhere they could be protected from the violent winds. The entire planet was suffocating beneath a noxious haze¡ªa consequence of the Corpos establishment, and the industrialized greed that followed.


    Arthros swiped through a long list visible on one of the monitors. Many of the items had been crossed out, and he kept scrolling down until he found the first one unmarked. He copied the name into the navigation computer, and the ship adjusted course automatically.


    ¡°Does the Admiral know that we¡¯re here?¡¯ Her voice was accusatory.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if she does,¡± Arthros said.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you.¡±


    Arthros sighed, ¡°You don¡¯t have to.¡±


    This wasn¡¯t an argument he wanted to have, but it was an argument he couldn¡¯t avoid. Perhaps if he ignored her for long enough¡­


    ¡°You¡¯d rather waste your time on this planet than talk to me, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°For Tril¡¯s sake, I¡¯m not wasting my time!¡±


    If she could roll her eyes, Arthros knew she would have, but the contemptuous sigh was enough. He could hardly blame her. She knew better than anyone how futile his other attempts had been.


    ¡°If you bring a human back to Hokku, the High Families will try to execute you on the spot.¡±


    ¡°I have to find one with a feasible synaptic rank first,¡± he grunted.


    ¡°They belong in chains, not a HWND. Their bodies are too small. Their psychosomatic outputs are abysmally low. You know they have no chance of integrating with my kin.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ anger was starting to build. ¡°There¡¯s a reason almost 90% of our slave force is made of humans. They¡¯re hardworking and tenacious.¡±


    ¡°So? Tenacity has nothing to do with synaptic ranks.¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± he snarled.


    His sudden outburst was enough to silence her, but he could feel another question forming like the weight of a cup filling with water. ¡°This conversation is over, Zero. I¡¯ll see you when we land.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not very affectionate¨C¡±Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    He growled out a curse and mentally cut the connection. He hated when she talked like that. She was a computer for Tril¡¯s sake.


    The landing bay came into view quickly¡ªoval shaped with tall stone walls to shield ships and those inside from the harsh winds.


    He guided The Reckless over and brought it down smoothly, hearing it sink into the landing gear with a soft groan. The exodus of pressurized air hissed loudly.


    Arthros stared out the viewport, mentally preparing himself for the atmosphere¡¯s stench. Through the space-tempered glass, he saw the landing crew approaching: two humans and a Sk¡¯reah.


    The two humans wore greasy jumpsuits, patched at the knees and elbows, with several fresh holes in various places. On their left breast was a patch with a logo on it, and the younger of the two wore a faded hat with the same logo.


    The Sk¡¯reah, an insectoid species from the planet Gasaan, wore no clothes, and it didn¡¯t need to. Its chitinous exoskeleton did enough to protect it from the elements and regulate its body temperature. Around the segment between its head and upper body, a sash hung with the same logo worn by the humans, the only discernible feature that tied the insectoid to the landing bay.


    ¡°Zero¨C¡± Arthros stopped himself before she could respond. He didn¡¯t need a psychosomatic scan for these three. They had the collective synaptic rank of a handful of worms.


    Their presence alone was enough to irritate him. He really wasn¡¯t in the mood for conversation.


    He strode toward the door and grabbed his Skarthkas from the cabinet in the hall. He wasn¡¯t planning on doing any killing, but just the threat of the infamous Hokkonian gun-blade could be useful.


    The weapon had a curved blade on one end, and a long gun barrel on the other. Both ends floated a finger¡¯s breadth away from the circular hilt between them. They were held together by a powerful magnetic field that emanated from the plasma crystal contained in the hilt¡¯s capsule.


    It was a weapon that demanded both strength and finesse. Arthros had it built when he was promoted to Commander and it had seen little action since. Maybe the weapon would keep the needless gibbering to a minimal.


    The ship¡¯s door folded out of view to better reveal the staff of the landing bay. The youngest human stared wide-eyed and fearful. He was tall, with shaggy blonde hair and a patchy beard. He stood with the awkwardness of an adolescent, not yet grown into his lanky limbs.


    His fear was normal, expected even. Most were afraid of Hokkonians, which made the expression on the older human all the more confusing.


    He stared Arthros down with a challenging glare as he scratched at the stubble on his jowls. Arthros flicked a glance at the Sk¡¯reah. The insectoid¡¯s bulbous eyes looked as lifeless as a corpse, but he knew it was still breathing by the steady stream of drool oozing from its mandibles.


    He eyed them all evenly, ¡°I¡¯m looking to dock my ship here for the next couple of rotations. I trust you¡¯ll look after it well.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely sir,¡± the young one mumbled.


    Arthros started to walk past them, but the older human stepped in his way.


    ¡°Landing fee is 150, but that only gets ya ¡®n hour,¡± the old man said as he wiped his crooked nose with the back of his hand.


    The young one gasped and Arthros snorted at his audacity. What kind of fool would dare to try and charge a HWND pilot anything? The old man didn¡¯t back down and squared his shoulders with a cock-eyed glare. A frown like a dead fish appeared on his gaunt face. He held out his hand, waiting for Arthros to hand over the payment.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch my ship. I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll be back,¡± Arthros said dryly.


    The old man¡¯s frown deepened as Arthros strode past. He gave his head a violent shake and spat into the dust.


    ¡°Where do ya think you¡¯re going!¡±


    Arthros ignored him. Surely this man wasn¡¯t ignorant enough to challenge a Hokkonian? Without turning around, he rested his hand on the handle of the Skarthkas. The threat of the weapon was enough to send the old man¡¯s companions scrambling away, but the ancient fool was persistent.


    Arthros could hear the man¡¯s footsteps getting louder.


    ¡°Bloody mank waste! You can¡¯t just walk away!¡±


    Arthros froze at the insult, the spines that usually laid flat against his skin rose ever so slightly.


    Even little flies bit sometimes.


    He whirled around to face the old man. ¡°Do you know who you¡¯re dealing with, small human?¡±


    The color drained from the old man¡¯s face at the sudden attention, but it did little to deter his incessant sputtering. ¡°I¨Cyou¡¯re¨Cit doesn¡¯t matter who you are or what you are! This is my landing bay¡ªmy rules! I¡¯ve seen your folk around here and they¡¯ve never bothered me, yet now after all these years I¡¯m supposed to just¨C¡±


    Arthros stepped closer and the man trailed off. His eight-foot frame completely dwarfed the old human, who cowered in his shadow like a sick dog. Arthros bent low to bring his face close and curled his lips in contempt.


    ¡°Why is it that your companions seem to comprehend the danger that you¡¯ve put yourself in, and yet you remain oblivious? There is a reason the rest of Dromedar thinks so poorly of your species, and it is because of fools like you.¡± Arthros gently placed a finger on the human¡¯s wrinkled forehead.


    The man recoiled from his touch and stumbled back as if he had been struck. His fear rapidly turned to outrage, and he collected himself with clenched fists. Arthros repressed an annoyed sigh. He could recognize that rage-induced defiance anywhere. The human was about to do something very stupid.


    Arthros turned away. Maybe he could just leave before the human forced him to retaliate.


    ¡°Don¡¯t walk away from me!¡± the human grabbed his arm.


    Arthros reacted instantly and the air rippled as he swung the gun-blade upward. The massive, curved edge whipped underneath the man¡¯s right arm and sheared through his shoulder joint like paper. Before the severed limb could drop, he flicked his wrist, and the weapon flipped 180 degrees. The crescent moon-shaped blade was replaced with the polished metal barrel of a plasma rifle. He pulled the trigger, and the energy discharged, blowing a hole the size of his fist through the human¡¯s chest. The body dropped lifelessly into the puddle of blood already thickening with the dust.


    Arthros grimaced at the mess and ran his hands down his arms and his head, flattening the raised spines on his skin. He hadn¡¯t wanted to do that. He flicked the blood from his blade with a jerk of his wrist.


    ¡°Clean this up,¡± he motioned to the corpse.


    The Sk¡¯reah was rooted to the ground, its long eyestalks fixated on the body. If it had heard the request, it made no move to obey. The young human took a shaky step forward, careful not to step in the gore. His eyes were fixed on the corpse while his jaw worked soundlessly.


    Arthros narrowed his eyes, ¡°Are you both deaf?¡±


    The sound of his voice startled the human, and the pitiful creature let out a strangled cry. He fell hard on his rear and scrambled back like a wounded animal.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me. I don¡¯t want to die! Please!¡± he sobbed.


    Arthros sighed at the annoying side effect of his overwhelming intimidation.


    He sheathed his weapon and folded his hands across his chest. ¡°Do it, or don¡¯t. I don¡¯t care, but nobody touches my ship. Is that understood?¡±


    His lip curled in disgust as the human moaned, and a trickle of liquid waste muddied the dirt around his legs. Instead he turned to the Sk¡¯reah, ¡°My ship, do you understand?¡±


    The Sk¡¯reah nodded, seemingly unaffected by the loss of his co-worker.


    Arthros paused for a moment, maybe the Sk''reah could help speed things up. ¡°I¡¯m looking for a Klethonian.¡±


    The Klethonians were the ¡®original¡¯ humans, and Arthros had heard rumors that some possessed synaptic ranks equal to Hokkonians. Of course, most of them had died out since the Hokkonian crusades and the resultant genocide, but there were whispers of some surviving bloodlines. If he were to find a human worthy enough to pilot a mech, it would be one with Klethonian blood.


    There was a pause of silence before the Sk¡¯reah shifted a little and spoke. The insectoid¡¯s long and thin wings vibrated. The alien spoke in broken Universal, his voice rasping like paper.


    ¡°Pit five kilometers south.¡± The alien¡¯s eyestalks extended closer, black pitted globes on the end of the stalks blinked. ¡°Klethonian there. Sk¡¯reah there too.¡±


    It contorted its long, segmented body so it could stand upright, tall enough that the tips of its eyestalks reached Arthros¡¯ chest. ¡°Best fighter in Sector.¡±


    He shrugged off the disconcerting gaze. His mind itched to get away from the insectoid, but he held his ground and kept his face passive. ¡°I have no need for a Sk¡¯reah fighter.¡±


    ¡°Sk¡¯reah fight Klethonian soon. Sk¡¯reah kill Klethonian. My Queen, My Queen, My Queen,¡± he chirped.


    Arthros¡¯ mouth twisted with distaste at the chittering. ¡°Impossible. Sk¡¯reah queens don¡¯t leave Gasaan. They don¡¯t even leave their nests.¡±


    The Sk¡¯reah wordlessly bobbed its eyestalks, refusing to say anything more. The human had ceased its cries, and now watched Arthros with wary silence. It was time to leave.


    ¡°No one touches my ship,¡± he said at last.


    He had barely taken ten steps before an alarm sounded¡ªa faint wail coming from the small office building on the other side of the landing bay. The howling outside the walls intensified, and a fresh wave of the acrid air cascaded into the artificial basin. The noise spurred the attendants into action, and the human scrambled out of the puddle of urine. Arthros watched him sprint to the small office structure and vanish behind the door.


    Moments later, a transparent dome formed over the landing bay. There was an immediate silence from the wind once the dome closed. Arthros raised a hairless eyebrow.


    Now he was trapped.


    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Arthros demanded as the human came running back.


    The human cringed, ¡°There¡¯s a gas storm coming. I¨CI had to close the dome, it¡¯s protocol. Er¨C It¡¯s for our safety¨C your safety! Y-you wouldn¡¯t even make it to the shuttle if you tried to walk out of here.¡±


    Arthros bared his teeth and had to remind himself that the human was just ignorant and stupid. One kill was bad enough. Two before he even left the landing bay was downright outrageous.


    ¡°I should put you in the dirt,¡± Arthros hissed.


    The human went white and tottered on his feet. His eyes rolled like a spooked animal as he stiffened with fear.


    Arthros snuffed out his anger with a steady breath and turned his attention back to his ship.


    ¡°Zero,¡± he muttered. ¡°Bring the HWND.¡±


    He re-connected with the AI, expecting the usual warmth that filled his mind. Instead, all he felt was cold and it sat heavy like a stone.


    ¡°Enough Zero, come out.¡± He crossed his arms over his chest, and sent a mental image of him doing so, along with the frown on his face. ¡°Now.¡±


    The cold dissipated, and the warmth slowly seeped back, ¡°I hate when you cut me off.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re incapable of hate,¡± Arthros growled.


    ¡°And you¡¯re incapable of being nice,¡± she said stiffly.


    He rubbed the skin between his eyes with a thumb, biting back a response that could only make things worse.


    There was a hiss of escaping air from his ship as the hydraulic lock released.


    From the back of The Reckless, a massive humanoid shape rose and climbed onto the roof. It was nearly a third of the ship¡¯s size and the weight of it caused the vessel to groan and shift.


    The mech stood proud, nearly identical in shape to Arthros, though it was three times his size. It leapt from the ship, landing in a cloud of dust with flexed knees. It strode toward Arthros, walking with the grace of a living creature, but nothing more than a quick glance was enough to see that it was a machine. Sunlight reflected off the HWND¡¯s polished blue steel. A gold-coloured visor glowed on its mechanoid head.


    There was no flesh, muscle, or bone, only Hokkonian steel, graded for space travel and resistant to any form of weaponized energy.


    Inside was a hollow space, designed to perfectly fit its pilot. It was a suit of armor. A vehicle. A Heavily Weaponized Neural Dragoon.


    It was Arthros¡¯ HWND.


    The mech powered down and its humanoid form knelt to one knee in front of Arthros. He ran a hand along the smooth steel of the mech¡¯s thigh, stowing his Skarthkas in a small compartment as he walked around. The machine¡¯s back was protected by two triangular plates of steel, similar in shape to the muscles of Arthros¡¯ own body.


    As he climbed up, the two plates swung away to reveal the hollow interior. A mold of himself stood empty in the mech¡¯s cavity, and it beckoned to him like a lover coaxing him to bed.


    He closed his eyes as he stepped in, relishing the way the biosynthetic material responded to his presence. It tightened around his body, squeezing like it wanted to swallow him whole. Almost instantly he felt a jolt run through him, and his mind lit up with a thousand different senses. When he opened his eyes, he no longer saw through his own, but through the mechanical optics of the HWND. His organic self no longer existed; he felt what the HWND felt: the warm breeze on his shoulders, and the dust beneath his feet. He took a deep breath and recoiled at the stench of the air still trapped within the dome.


    ¡°Zero, deactivate olfactory system,¡± he said.


    She didn¡¯t respond, but in an instant the acrid smell was gone, along with any other scents that might have been present. The hum of the mech barely reached his ears, as the gears and mechanisms whirred. He jumped to his feet and stretched his arms and legs.  Regardless of his mechanical joints, his movements were smooth and instantaneous. Better even than his own biological body.


    ¡°You really think you¡¯ll find a human capable of piloting a machine like this?¡±


    From inside the cockpit, a predatory smirk cracked on Arthros¡¯ encased face. ¡°I really do.¡±

 Chapter 2 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output = 10,000 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank = Unbound


    ¡°Open the doors,¡± Arthros motioned to the service doors, rusted from years of disuse.


    The human trembled and pointed an unsteady finger at his own chest, ¡°I¨C me? No, I couldn¡¯t¨C I can¡¯t. the Storm.¡±


    Arthros stared at him and from his viewpoint in the HWND the human seemed as small as a mouse. Crumbling under the eyeless gaze, the little being scurried back to the office and returned with a set of keys.


    He fumbled with the keys at the service doors, cursing as he dropped them more than once. When the lock was disengaged, he began to tug on the crank, throwing his body weight into the rusted lever. It was no use. The doors remained closed without a single tremor to suggest they had moved.


    Arthros didn¡¯t wait for him to try again. He placed both hands at the seam of the closed doors and tried to pull them apart.


    He could feel the HWND strain as though it were his own muscles, and the strenuous action made the muscle-fibers in his back burn.


    The doors began to open. They fought back for only a second, then loosened with an ear-grating screech.


    The dust storm whipped into the landing bay like the release of flood gates. Pellets of stone struck the metal exterior of the mech, and his own skin stung. Zero deactivated the somatosensory system, and the pain vanished.


    There was a yelp as the Storm sent the human tumbling behind him and he took a step over to shield the little alien with his bulk.


    He leapt through the opening, and whipped around to manually pull the doors back together. He caught himself wondering if the human was okay and cut the thought from his mind like the doors he had just closed.


    Zero was right¡ªhe was going soft.


    The gas storm was in full force, but it battered harmlessly off the Hokkonian steel. Nonetheless, his visibility was non-existent.


    ¡°Zero?¡± he growled.


    ¡°Storm height 6000 feet,¡± she calculated.


    The HWND stood upright, and its golden plated shoulder pads folded up. Propulsion engines extended with a series of soft mechanical clicks. They ignited with a bright flare, and the mech shot straight into the sky with the roar of the flame.


    Within seconds, they broke through the clouds, leaving the howling storm to rage helplessly beneath them. He made the subconscious check for any Corpos ships in the air space.


    The cloudless sky was empty, save for Arthros and his mech.


    ¡°Another pit brawl?¡± Zero asked.


    They hovered for a moment as Arthros¡¯ vision changed to a topographical map of the surface. ¡°Obviously.¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t work last time.¡±


    Arthros thought of the last human they pulled from the Kleth¡¯altho fighting pits. The young woman had seemed capable enough, and her psychosomatic output had been passable.


    He could still remember the vacant look on her face as her brain dissolved under the neurological pressure.


    ¡°Thanks for reminding me,¡± he grumbled.


    The tumultuous storm clouds made it impossible to scan the terrain. Arthros was forced to rely on Zero¡¯s navigational calculations.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we try the moons? You can have the pick of the litter from all of the slaves there.¡±


    ¡°This time is going to be different,¡± Arthros responded.


    ¡°You said that the last ten times. How many brain-fried humans have you tossed into the incinerator?¡±


    Arthros was done humoring the argument. ¡°There¡¯s a self-proclaimed Klethonian fighting soon. See if you can find any information on him.¡±


    They maintained their altitude well above the torrent raging beneath them. In the distance, he could see the end of the Storm, and beyond that, the outline of mountains.


    ¡°I found something in the pit records for this region of Kleth¡¯altho. A human fighter named Brandon, pit name: Brandon the Klethonian. He¡¯s currently 14-2, suffering both defeats at the hands of other aliens. Somehow, he managed to survive both.¡±


    ¡°So, he¡¯s fought more than just humans. That¡¯s good,¡± Arthros replied.


    ¡°Yes, and it almost killed him.¡±


    He could hear the contempt in her voice but ignored it, ¡°Probably survived because of his tenacity.¡±


    She gave him a dismissive nudge in his mind, and his mouth twitched with a smirk.


    ¡°Is there an image?¡± he inquired.


    She cast an image of the fighter to his vision, transparent enough so he could still see where he was flying. It was hard to tell from the image just how big the man was, but Arthros had a feeling that he was significantly bigger than most.


    Massive arms extended out of a barrel-shaped torso. Scars lined his bare arms and legs, and the hilt of a weapon could be seen protruding from behind his back. Most interesting was his deep red hair, the color of dried blood. It hung in a long ponytail down his chest.


    Arthros couldn¡¯t help his excitement, ¡°He is the spitting image of the Kleth¡¯altho chieftains I¡¯ve seen in my studies!¡±


    ¡°Yes, maybe too similar.¡±


    He didn¡¯t let her skepticism sway him; this was as good of a lead as he was going to get.


    ¡°What¡¯s so great about Klethonians anyway?¡± Zero complained. ¡°They¡¯re still just humans.¡±


    ¡°Not just humans¡ªthe original humans. Before we turned our eye on them, they were powerful and defended Kleth¡¯altho with ferocity. Their psychosomatic outputs could rival any other species in the star system.¡± If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    ¡°Exactly my point. They were broken the moment the Hokkonians enslaved them,¡± Zero huffed.


    Arthros bared his teeth, irritated at her incessant arguing. ¡°There¡¯s a reason almost every slave in the Hokku system is human!¡±


    ¡°Because they¡¯re sheep,¡± Zero responded in a flat tone. ¡°Blind with fear and their own incompetence.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not doing this again,¡± Arthros growled.


    Meek silence filled his head. He had little desire to berate her, though he wasn¡¯t sure how else to make her stop. He couldn¡¯t do it alone; he needed at least one friend to back him up in this.


    He turned his attention to the terrain below. the Storm was dissipating, and pockets of the surface were visible. Through the haze he spotted several Corpos refineries, the direct cause for the gas that now ravaged the lands.


    Arthros mused at the irony. Once the Corpos learned of Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s economic potential, they quickly moved in and capitalized on the natural resource. The planet-wide corporation brought wealth, autonomy, and disfigurement to the backwater planet.


    Despite their newfound societal standing in the Dromedar star system, Kleth¡¯altho had never been so isolated.


    ¡°Pit located, 200m and closing,¡± Zero said.


    ¡°I see it,¡± Arthros replied, watching the massive crater grow larger as he rapidly approached it. ¡°Taking us down, I¡¯m going bare.¡±


    He started to dive but hit the brakes before the mech could crash into the ground. He wasn¡¯t worried about being overheard. No doubt the fighting pit was already roaring with the spectators¡¯ cheers.


    ¡°Do you want me to hover?¡± Zero prompted.


    Arthros landed the HWND and immediately released the cockpit entrance, eager to get into the pit.


    ¡°No,¡± Arthros replied, straightening out his white wrapped clothing. ¡°Keep close by but hidden. We don¡¯t need to attract any more attention.¡±


    He grabbed the Skarthkas from the compartment in his mech¡¯s thigh and strode off toward the path that led to the pit¡¯s entrance.


    ¡°Do you really need that?¡±


    Arthros paused, weighed the weapon in his hands, and then shrugged, ¡°No, but I¡¯m taking it with me anyway.¡±


    ¡°You love that thing more than me.¡±


    He frowned at the HWND and chose to ignore her. She huffed and flew the mech away without a second thought.


    The pit was nearly two kilometers wide. The sloping path he was walking on transitioned into a much steeper trail that spiraled down the pit¡¯s walls. It led all the way to the bottom as it branched off into different sections of the stands, which were benches that had been carved into stone.


    The fighting stage was almost an entire kilometer down from the surface, making the individuals hard to see. He glanced at the massive screens that were suspended in the air, and they showed a close-up image of the fight that had just ended.


    The winner swaggered around the perimeter of the arena, shaking a massive fist in victory. Crew members hurried out into the arena to drag away the lifeless body of the opposing fighter.


    The crowd erupted into more cheers as the victorious brawler flipped backward, landing on a third arm that protruded from its back.


    Arthros recognized the alien as a Grontar¡ªa reptilian race with a reputation for being stupid and brutish. He saw one almost every time he visited the fighting pits. Mindless violence was the only thing the brutes excelled at.


    He was nearly halfway down the narrow path when an amplified voice silenced the crowd. ¡°And now for the main event! Are you gas suckers ready to see your Queen in action?¡±


    The crowd erupted into cheers, a deafening roar that shook the arena.


    ¡°Enter, Your Majesty!¡± the voice shouted.


    A loud screech rang through the arena as a massive Sk¡¯reah squeezed herself through a tunnel at the base of the pit wall. Her large, segmented body contorted and twisted as she paraded herself around. She looked like a writhing centipede, and Arthros¡¯ lip curled at her grotesque display.


    Her segments flexed under the extreme effort required to hold herself upright. The Queen had to be at least eight meters tall¡ªlarger than anything Arthros was expecting. The crowd reacted to the wriggling show with intensified cheers.


    ¡°Zero, scan?¡±


    Her response came a few seconds later, ¡°Her somatic score is high. Her body control is surprisingly impressive, however her psymetra score is severely lacking. Her psychosomatic output is 497 units. She¡¯s a synaptic rank 2.¡±


    Arthros nodded, he wasn¡¯t surprised. It was rare to find an individual with a high enough psymetra score. Sure, there were fighters who had incredible control of their bodies, but a high somatic score wasn¡¯t enough. It was the mind that bottlenecked the body.


    Still, 497 units was an impressive output for a Sk¡¯reah.


    ¡°And now for your challenger! You know him as the local hero, a true son of Kleth¡¯altho¡ª Brandon the Klethonian!¡± The announcer dragged the vowels to emphasize his name.


    The crowd¡¯s response was equally thunderous. Did they love the human, or were they eager to see him ripped apart?


    The cheering stopped when a young human male ran out of the tunnel. He jogged with a confident trot and waved to the audience. He was smaller than most humans and his clothes hung off his thin frame in dirty rags: a pair of shorts and a worn fighter''s leather vest.


    His arms were bare, showing lean defined muscle. His head was completely shaved, though there was a tinge of red.


    He certainly was not the barrel-chested Klethonian everyone was expecting.


    A lone heckle came from somewhere in the crowd, and within seconds, a tidal wave of curses flooded the arena. The young man stood unfazed; his only reply was a challenging grin.


    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, we humbly apologize for the mix-up. Brandon has fallen ill, and it has been the decision of the pit lord to withdraw him from the fight.¡± Even the announcer sounded disappointed.


    The jeers only grew louder in volume. The crowd must have felt like they were being cheated. Arthros couldn¡¯t help but agree¡ªthis little human was smaller than the attendant at the landing bay.


    ¡°In his place, a new challenger has approached. One we promise will deliver an equally exciting show!¡±


    ¡°I doubt it!¡± a voice shouted, followed by a ripple of laughter.


    ¡°Please welcome, Jericho Hound!¡± the announcer commanded.


    Arthros¡¯ eyes widened at the name. It was the same colloquial pronunciation that was used for the mechs.


    Who would dare? Arthros couldn¡¯t let this human continue to claim the name. If the Sk¡¯reah didn¡¯t kill him, he would have to step in. He tightened his grip on his Skarthkas. How many lives would he take on principle alone? Did no one understand the value of respect anymore?


    He watched as the human unsheathed two large swords from his hips; short steel blades lined with plasma cartridges. The blades were in rough shape but there was no mistaking the stunted length and ribbed steel. They had been built to replicate the much larger armor-piercing swords wielded by the HWNDs.


    To a Hokkonian, they were little more than daggers, but in the hands of the human they looked as big as swords. For the first time in a long time, Arthros was shocked.


    ¡°Zero, find me everything you can on this competitor, Jericho Hound,¡± the name sounded odd on his tongue.


    ¡°Yes, Arthros.¡±


    Arthros watched the human on the large screens, and he couldn¡¯t help his contemptuous sneer. The human spun the blades in his hands with ease, keeping his gaze focused on the insectoid. He crouched down in a fighter''s stance, raising his arms so his blades crossed. The Sk¡¯reah screeched in defiance. The anticipation was enough to drown out even the loudest hecklers.


    ¡°Arthros, his scores¡­¡± Zero sounded strange.


    ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°His psychosomatic output is terrible, an even 150 units. He doesn¡¯t even qualify for a synaptic rank.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s unsurprising, look at him,¡± Arthros grunted.


    The fighters squared each other up, and in a moment the bout would begin. Arthros couldn¡¯t imagine a reality where the fight didn¡¯t end in catastrophic defeat for the human. He was too scrawny¡ªthe daggers looked heavy in his hands.


    ¡°It¡¯s his psymetra scores¨C Arthros, it isn¡¯t logical, but I¡¯ve scanned him four times.¡±


    ¡°All I care about is his synaptic rank,¡± he growled.


    The human began to pace and never once took his eyes off the centipede-like alien. The Sk¡¯reah didn¡¯t move, her muscular segments were bunched in preparation for the strike. How quickly would the Sk¡¯reah crush the human? Arthros wagered it wouldn¡¯t take longer than a few seconds.


    ¡°It has to be wrong.¡±


    ¡°Zero!¡± he snapped.


    ¡°Arthros, his psymetra is unreadable. He¡¯s unbound, like you.¡±

 Chapter 3 - Jericho

    Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 150 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Jericho¡¯s smile never left his face as he walked into the arena. Today was the greatest day of his life, because today he had a chance to fight in front of the biggest crowd he had ever seen. Sure, they had come to watch Brandon, but after this fight it would be his name that got people excited.


    Jericho Hound, gladiator prot¨¦g¨¦.


    He glanced back at the tunnel and locked eyes with the pit boss, ugly old Pig-Chow, with his scarred and bloated face. He supported his pear-shaped body with spindly legs, and his shoulders hunched underneath an elongated neck. His clothes were the only pleasant-looking thing about him.


    Piglikow was his real name, which he claimed was a ¡®great family name.¡¯ Jericho doubted it was great in any sense.


    Jericho gave the man a nod¡ªa brief gesture of thanks. In response, an evil grin stretched across his pudgy features. Pig-Chow had been waiting a long time to get rid of Jericho, and when Brandon fled, it was the perfect opportunity.


    There was no surviving a fight against the Sk¡¯reah queen, which would explain Brandon¡¯s absence. He didn¡¯t want to die; an understandable justification.


    Brandon¡¯s inevitable demise was the only reason Jericho even came to the fight. He wanted to say goodbye to his red-headed friend.


    Except the broad-shouldered man wasn¡¯t in the arena when Jericho showed up. He wasn¡¯t in the tunnels or the training room. Brandon ran, and if Jericho was being honest, he was happy; the pit was no place for a nice guy.


    You had to want it, crave it. You had to desperately claw your way toward victory like it was your only source of oxygen.


    Jericho wanted it.


    When Pig-Chow came into the chambers cussing out Brandon and looking for a replacement, it was Jericho who stepped up and offered to fight in his place. It was Jericho who sneered at the cowardice of his peers as he shouldered past their slumped frames and downcast gazes. You had to want it as badly as you wanted to breathe.


    Be somebody.


    The words of his father rang in his ears.


    Now, as Jericho stood before the massive crowd and the looming Sk¡¯reah, he returned Pig-Chow¡¯s evil gaze with a lopsided grin.


    Watch this, you old goat.


    Jericho wasn¡¯t going to die today; he refused to give that man the satisfaction.


    He scanned the crowd for his girlfriend, Kyrin, but the surrounding stands were an ocean of alien faces.


    Maybe a win today would help keep her off the torpe, at least for a little bit. That poison was slowly killing her, but she refused to admit it.


    He studied the massive Sk¡¯reah swaying on the other side of the arena. She was the biggest creature he had ever laid eyes on¡ªbigger even than some of the star ships that flew overhead.


    When standing upright, she was close to twelve meters tall, though she couldn¡¯t have been more than two meters at her widest point. She reminded him of the little centipedes he used to catch when he was younger, and a shudder passed down his neck.


    This one, at least, had much fewer limbs, only one pair for each segment of her body. They were just as dangerous as her mouth, which was circular and lined with several rows of razor-sharp teeth. Her back was covered in a dull green exoskeleton that he knew was as hard as steel.


    It was her underside that was soft¡ªthe only spot susceptible to the honed edges of his swords. Long eyestalks protruded out of the armor on her head, and they swiveled to face him.


    Jericho closed his eyes and imagined a single thread shining like pure silver in the darkness.


    The thread of the way.


    It was a trick his dad had taught him long ago to guide him if he got lost. He reached for the thread now and imagined it coiling around his wrist. He could almost feel it pulling him toward the Sk¡¯reah.


    With the thread, he would be okay. Its guidance had saved him on more than one occasion.


    ¡°Fight!¡± the announcer¡¯s amplified voice commanded.


    Jericho sprang from his crouched position. He had watched the Sk¡¯reah fight too many times to be fooled by her size. She could easily move faster than he could. The thread tugged at him, forcing him to dodge the insectoid¡¯s sudden attack. Her massive body crashed into the ground where he had just been standing, and plumes of dust billowed into the air. He planted his foot, skidding to a stop in a shower of dirt and pebbles to redirect his movement. He pushed off in a powerful first step to send him flying back in her direction.


    There were precious few seconds for the opening. She was even faster than he¡¯d expected. The thread pulled him down and he slid on the ground to dodge the lower half of her body that swung overhead. His knees stung but it was nothing compared to the whoosh of air above his head that sang of his death. Out of the slide, he sprang back to his feet, barely losing a shred of momentum. One line of advice that had been with him since he was young rang through his head.


    Stop moving and you die.


    He weaved beneath her body, hiding himself in her bulk. All she had to do was drop to the ground and he would be crushed, but this was the only way he could get to her underside. He glanced up and the prize was exposed directly above him¡ªher fleshy throat, uncovered by the exoskeleton. He saw the thread dangling from the joint between her head and neck.


    The kill zone.


    He leapt as hard as he could, blades bared like snake fangs. The Sk¡¯reah screeched in panic, but she was too late to realize her mistake. Before she could go limp and crush him, Jericho¡¯s swords sank deep into her unprotected neck.


    She reared her head in pain, but the blades¡¯ serrated edges hooked into her flesh. Jericho was lifted off his feet as he clung to the hilts, but the alien¡¯s thrashing wrenched his grips free. He tried to absorb the impact with a roll, but it was clumsy, and he felt a lancing pain in his knee as he hit the ground.


    Above him, the monster bellowed in rage and scrabbled at her neck with useless limbs. The blades were eventually loosened and knocked free. One went spinning over his head, while the other fell only a few meters away, its tip impaled into the ground.


    He felt the incessant pull of the thread, and he responded with a pained grunt. His knee protested, but he ignored the alarm and rolled over to pick himself off the ground.


    Don¡¯t stop moving.


    The Queen stared at him; her senseless thrashing ceased. Her eyestalks went unnaturally still. He recognized the look in her alien features: shock and blind fury that he had managed to wound her. There weren¡¯t many who could do that.


    A wide smile cracked on his face, and she screeched in response. The thread warned him an attack was coming, and not a second later, the Sk¡¯reah queen dropped onto her stomach and began to skitter toward him. It was a new move¡ªsomething he had never seen her do. With all her legs working in unison, she was far faster than before.


    She¡¯s going to trample me.


    He paused for just a moment before the thread pulled him toward the sword that had been thrown near the wall.


    Not that one, it¡¯s too far!


    He rolled to his left, just barely dodging the Sk¡¯reah as she rushed past him. He sent a silent prayer of thanks for her poor maneuverability as he leapt to his feet.


    The thread pulled him toward the far-away sword, but he ignored it. If he made a run for it, she would catch him in an instant. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Behind him, the thunder of limbs pounding the ground was getting closer. He leapt out of the way to dodge another bull rush, but a hairy arm caught him in the leg. The force of the blow flipped him over backward, and he tucked his head to avoid breaking his neck as he collided with the hard packed dirt.


    The air was driven from his lungs and he gasped as he lay on his back.


    Don¡¯t stop moving.


    He heard the Sk¡¯reah screech as she pounced on him. He barely managed to roll away as her bulk crashed into the dirt where his skull had been. He scrambled to his feet and ran for the sword that was now just in front of him, but the pulling of the thread nearly staggered him off balance.


    No! Get it together, Jericho.


    He grabbed the blade just in time and ducked underneath another swinging arm. He hacked at it as it whistled over his head, but the edge of the blade did little damage. It did even less to stop the second arm from colliding with his chest, or the third that crushed his right leg into the ground with a sickening crack.


    He didn¡¯t even have enough time to scream before the Sk¡¯reah launched him into the air. He felt paralyzing agony when he hit the ground. For a moment, he lay in the cloud of dust, fighting the daze that made his mind heavy.


    He looked for the thread, but it was like searching for spider silk in a bowl of milk.


    I¡¯m going to die.


    He lifted his head to see the Sk¡¯reah charging at him with her horrifying face. He couldn¡¯t hear her screeching through the ringing in his ears. He couldn¡¯t hear anything. There was no inner voice; no thread pulling him to safety or guiding him toward victory.


    She was almost on him.


    Don¡¯t watch Babe, this is going to be one ugly way to go.


    He braced for his death, but when he tensed, he felt something hard digging into his back. Hope flared as he pulled the other sword out from under him. He no longer cared about the Sk¡¯reah that was bunching her many legs together to leap on top of him. He didn¡¯t pay attention to her massive shape soaring toward him.


    There, on the handle of his blade, was the silver shining thread, wrapped tightly around the hilt. It glowed with a comforting promise that dulled his pain and cleared the fog in his mind.


    He heard his father¡¯s voice again.


    Be somebody.


    Jericho held up the blade and stared at it with wonder. The world went black as a great weight crushed him. He screamed, but a foul-tasting substance filled his mouth.


    Then, miraculously, the weight was lifted and the light and noise of the crowd returned. He watched as the Sk¡¯reah staggered away from him.


    There in her neck was his blade, this time buried so deep he could just barely see the pommel. He tried to push himself up, but an insurmountable pain in his leg made him freeze. He glanced down and saw the jagged edge of his femur protruding from his skin.


    I¡¯m a sitting duck.


    He braced for another attack, but when he looked up, the Sk¡¯reah wasn¡¯t paying any attention to him. She was pawing at the sword in her neck, but she had no way to pull it out this time. He saw the thread dangling from her wound and it seemed to shine brighter as he fought to stand up. He envisioned the twisted look of distaste on his mother¡¯s face, and the blank look in her eyes when she had left him.


    Anger stoked a fire inside his stomach, and it devoured the pain that radiated from his leg.


    Are you watching, Mother?


    With an unprecedented will, he forced himself to stand on his good leg. The thread beckoned him forward and he began to hop.


    The Sk¡¯reah was on her side now, dying in a puddle of grey blood still weeping from the hole in her neck. When she saw him, she tried to move, but couldn¡¯t manage more than a pathetic wiggle. There was fear in her bulbous black eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that,¡± he whispered. ¡°You¡¯ve taken too many lives to feel sorry for yourself now.¡±


    Her long eyestalks drooped, and a pitiful croak escaped her maw. Despite everything, Jericho started to laugh¡ªa crazed maniacal laughter that shook his entire body. Tears of joy sprung from his eyes, and the rush of emotion temporarily numbed the pain. His laughter turned to cackling, and he lifted his hands above his head in a gesture of celebration.


    ¡°I did it!¡± he rasped. ¡°I won!¡±


    Jericho drove his hand into the Sk¡¯reah¡¯s open wound to grab hold of his sword. With the little strength he had left, he yanked it out. As he pulled the blade free, it painted the dust in front of him grey with blood.


    The Sk¡¯reah¡¯s body shuddered, and her arms went erect, before dropping lifelessly to the ground. The thread vanished and the pain returned.


    ¡°In a shocking turn of events, Jericho Hound has slain the mighty Sk¡¯reah!¡± the announcer¡¯s voice echoed.


    The roar of the crowd danced its way down toward the combatants, echoing and reverberating against the walls as it shook the world around Jericho. It sounded like the most beautiful choir.


    He closed his eyes and rested his head against the Sk¡¯reah¡¯s soft flesh. In her death throes, she had curled into a loose coil, trapping him in her death¡¯s embrace. She was like a mother protecting her young, and with a broken leg, Jericho was helpless to escape.


    In a few short minutes, the cleanup crew arrived. Jericho could hear their muffled curses as they began to hack through the Sk¡¯reah¡¯s body.


    The sound of their tools grew louder until they finally broke through the flesh barrier. They offered no congratulations as they pulled him out, though they weren¡¯t stingy with their glares as they cleaned themselves from the gore.


    The medical staff arrived shortly after, and Jericho could have kissed the nurse when she jabbed the painkiller into his stomach.


    They carried him back in a stretcher, and his surroundings started to blur into obscurity as he lay in a drug-induced haze. He thought of Kyrin and tried to look around for her, but they were already bringing him into the tunnel.


    He watched the grooves in the stone ceiling pass by. Absent thoughts flitted through his mind like moths around a flame. Did he just win against the Sk¡¯reah? What was he so worried about before?


    He was meant to be a fighter; he was gifted at it.


    The Med Center was a small cavern, well lit, with multiple-branching tunnels. Each tunnel led to a private room for any patients who had to stay the night. In the middle of the room was a circular desk, and the nurse who stood behind it was a human with a warm smile.


    She said some words he couldn''t catch, and then directed the cleanup crew to carry him to a private room.


    They practically dumped him on the bed, and moments later Pig-Chow busted through the door. He stalked up to Jericho¡¯s bed, flecks of spittle flinging from his lips as he tried to form a coherent sentence.


    In Jericho¡¯s mental state, all he could do was laugh. The man was truly a disgusting person to look at.


    ¡°Wow, Pig-Chow, you are so ugly,¡± Jericho grinned up at the contorted face of his boss.


    Two of the men who had carried him in were still standing in the room, and they burst into surprised laughter. A nurse preparing the medicine gasped and stifled a giggle behind a gloved hand.


    Jericho clapped a hand over his mouth, shocked at his drug-induced inhibition. A dark look swept over the ugly man¡¯s features.


    He shoved a fat finger in Jericho¡¯s face, ¡°You little bastard. You think you can talk to me like that?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± he said, unable to help himself.


    Shut up Jericho, shut up!


    ¡°When you¡¯re that ugly, you have to have some thick skin,¡± Jericho giggled.


    You deserve whatever¡¯s coming now, you idiot.


    His words were so outrageous that even the laughter from the medical staff ceased. They all stared at him with the same look of horrified shock.


    ¡°You¡¯re dead, Hound, you hear me? Dead! What are you looking at? Get back to work!¡± Pig-Chow screeched.


    The staff scattered like insects under a lifted rock. He gave Jericho one last look of hatred before storming out of the room.


    He must have forgotten what he was going to say. Lucky me.


    Sleep came quickly, and for the first few cycles, he dreamed of pleasant things like leaving Kleth¡¯altho with Kyrin and starting a family on unclaimed land, maybe on a habitable moon no one had heard about. He dreamt of becoming a world champion¡ªthe pride of Kleth¡¯altho. Then he was envisioning the Hokkonians and their HWNDs. It was a recurring dream he often had, ever since his father had vanished.


    In the dream, he was seated in the cockpit of a powerful machine, one completely molded to his own body. Just like every other time, he flew the mech to each corner of the star system, searching for any sign of his father.


    The journey through his dreamscape ended when the pain crept back into his sleep, and the thread appeared. The sight of the ethereal thing surprised him, and a sudden sharp tug pulled him back to consciousness.


    At the same time, the door to his room creaked open, too tentatively to be an on-duty nurse.


    ¡°I told ya ¡®e¡¯s sleepin you big oaf,¡± came a harsh whisper. ¡°The light¡¯s off, just be quiet.¡±


    A weasel-resembling man crept through the door; long shaggy hair hung on his head like dead leaves. Behind him, a much larger figure squeezed through. In a poor attempt at stealth, the man¡¯s girth pushed the door open wider, flooding the room with more light.


    ¡°You stupid donk,¡± the weasel hissed. ¡°You¡¯ll wake him.¡±


    ¡°Maybe we should leave,¡± the big man said slowly, his voice like a complacent cow. ¡°He did kill that big beasty.¡±


    ¡°¡®E¡¯s got a brok¡¯n leg, ¡®e can¡¯t do anythin¡¯ to us. Besides, if ya back out now, Piglikow will know it was you.¡±


    Jericho cursed himself and the drugs. Pig-Chow¡¯s temper was common knowledge, and the man held a grudge like it was stitched into his face. If only he could have kept his mouth shut.


    Jericho watched the thugs creep closer, and he tried to think of a way out.


    There wasn¡¯t one.


    His leg was unresponsive, and the medication flowing through his veins slowed every synaptic impulse to a gelatinous ooze. He might as well have been sleeping.


    The cow-man lumbered close enough and plopped his weight down on top of him.


    A little overkill.


    He felt the weasel-man¡¯s bony fingers wrap around his neck and was helpless to stop the tightening grip that cut off his airflow. The dimly lit room faded, and the edges of his vision grew blurry. His mind fired hundreds of impulses to the rest of his body, desperately hoping he could fight through the medical soup still dripping into his blood.


    It was useless. He could do nothing but wait for the inevitable slideshow of his life to pass. What a miserable show that was going to be.


    Then, without explanation, the brute holding him down vanished and the cold hands were pried from his throat. His vision returned, and he saw the blurry outline of a third humanoid figure standing in his room. The person was massive, and they were holding each man by the scruff of their necks.


    ¡°Jericho Hound,¡± the voice rang like frozen steel. ¡°I think we should talk.¡±


    White eyes shone in the darkness, studying him with a calculating gaze. Without another word, the figure smashed the thugs¡¯ faces together. The collision of their heads made a loud smack, and they dropped like stones.

 Chapter 4 - Jericho

    Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output = 150 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank = Unbound


    Jericho blinked and rubbed his eyes, but the massive figure standing over top of him remained. It was human in shape, but so tall its head nearly brushed the nine-foot ceiling. He glanced at the two unconscious men on the floor. They had been lifted off their feet like they weighed no more than dolls.


    The alien wore countless thin strips of white cloth and they wound around his body like he had been dressed for his own burial. At the alien¡¯s hip was a weapon that made Jericho¡¯s eyes bulge. One side of the weapon was a curved blade, almost as long as his entire body. The other was the polished barrel of a plasma cannon¡ªa larger version of the handheld guns the refinery guards carried.


    The center between the two halves was the oval-shaped plasma chamber, and a curved hilt. Somehow, both ends floated a few inches away. They must have been held together by an invisible force.


    It was an infamous weapon; one that would allow the alien to cut his head off and blow a hole in his chest within a single breath. It was a weapon only HWND pilots carried.


    Jericho struggled to find his voice, and his words came out slurred. ¡°You¡¯re a pilot.¡±


    With a grunt of pain, he pushed himself into an upright position, sitting awkwardly not to disrupt his mending leg.


    The alien said nothing as he pulled the door closed. The darkness lasted for only a moment, before bright white light filled the small room. Jericho squinted through its harshness to find the source and saw a small sphere that floated just above the alien¡¯s shoulder.


    In the light, he could make out the finer details and a shiver ran down his spine when he saw the inch-long spines flattened against the alien¡¯s head. A closer look revealed more spines on the alien¡¯s neck, and even on the back of its hands. Jericho assumed more were hidden beneath the individual strips of fabric wound around the muscular body.


    ¡°My name is Arthros. I am the Commander of the eighth HWND division in the Hokku Navy. I wanted to get a closer look at you.¡±


    The name sounded familiar, like something Jericho had heard from a childhood story.


    Arthros continued, ¡°There is little information about you in the records. You fought well despite your size. I was surprised because your somatic scores are quite poor.¡±


    ¡°What are you¨C, why are you here?¡±


    The alien¡¯s face was rigid as stone, but the strange spines quivered on his skin. ¡°There wasn¡¯t a single person in the arena who expected you to survive. Except for you. You believed every second that you were going to win, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I¨Cwell, yeah of course,¡± Jericho mumbled.


    This guy is a lunatic.


    ¡°Why?¡± The question was barely a whisper, and it was filled with pure curiosity.


    Jericho furrowed his brow, ¡°Why what?¡±


    ¡°Why did you believe you would win? It¡¯s one thing to think you can survive, or even to hope. But it is entirely different to believe,¡± Arthros murmured.


    He thought about the question and shrugged, ¡°I want to be the best.¡±


    The drugs were fading, and his words were becoming clearer. The pain was sharpening his thoughts.


    ¡°The best?¡± Arthros¡¯ spines quivered like they had a mind of their own.


    ¡°All my life I¡¯ve been told that I¡¯m worthless, and I plan to prove those people wrong. I can¡¯t do that if I¡¯m lying dead in a pit,¡± Jericho said, surprised at his own conviction.


    Arthros swept his calculating gaze around the room, as if he were judging every crack in the stone walls. ¡°Why join the pits if you¡¯re so eager to leave?¡±


    As if I had a choice, pal.


    Jericho gritted his teeth. ¡°I didn¡¯t join, I was forced¨Cno, sold. You think this was my choice? I¡¯m a human. We don¡¯t last long here.¡±


    ¡°A human with an unbound psymetra score does,¡± Arthros said, his eyes flashing.


    To Jericho, the words were foreign. ¡°Huh? What does that mean?¡±


    Arthros inspected the bodies at his feet and then at the cast around Jericho¡¯s broken leg. His piercing gaze flicked to Jericho¡¯s face. For a moment, his eyes glazed and shifted out of focus.


    ¡°She says you¡¯re too small,¡± he said suddenly.


    Arthros¡¯ lips curled, and he tapped the tips of his razor-sharp teeth together. It wasn¡¯t a fearsome look, but an expression of thoughtfulness.


    ¡°She? I don¡¯t understand. What am I too small for? Wait, what¡¯s a psymetra score?¡± Jericho grimaced as the pain began to radiate from his leg.


    Arthros didn¡¯t answer. Instead, he was looking him up and down. ¡°I¡¯ve been traveling to Kleth¡¯altho for many years, always searching and always leaving disappointed. Never would I have expected you.¡±


    This guy is off his rocks.


    The pain was becoming unbearable, and his patience was starting to fade in response. ¡°Look, you¡¯re a HWND pilot, right? I¡¯m obliged to serve you. Whatever it is you need, I¡¯ll try my best to help.¡±


    The Hokkonian¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°You¡¯ll try? You don¡¯t have the slightest clue what I need, human.¡±


    The sphere above his shoulder flickered and the light dimmed. Arthros¡¯ spines trembled as his eyes shifted in and out of focus.


    He¡¯s talking to himself.


    The alien bent close. There wasn¡¯t a single blemish on his smooth skin. ¡°Are you a waste of my time?¡±


    He squirmed under the intensity of the gaze, but anger welled up inside of him. He didn¡¯t have a clue what was going on, but for some reason, the Hokkonian was testing him. The last thing he needed was a crazy killer alien rambling when all he wanted was rest.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t tell you if I¡¯m a waste of time. I don¡¯t have the slightest clue what you¡¯re even talking about.¡± He knew he should cut back the frustration in his tone, but he was fed up.


    The alien paused again. Jericho wanted to grab the alien¡¯s face and give him a shake. Anything to make sense of the situation. Was he still high?


    ¡°You¡¯re too small,¡± Arthros murmured, quietly and to himself.


    I heard you, you bastard!


    Jericho¡¯s temper flared and he swung his legs off the edge of the bed. He ignored the throbbing in his leg and leapt down to his one good foot.


    ¡°You¡¯re wrong! My size is not my problem!¡± he snarled, ready to swing at the contemptuous pilot.


    You and your big mouth.


    The alien was on him in an instant and a massive hand pinned his chest to the bed. Pointed teeth were bared in an animalistic snarl, ready to tear out his throat. Spines that covered the alien¡¯s bald head and neck were erect. It seemed the Hokkonian had been replaced by a monster.


    Finally, the alien spoke with a deadly edge, ¡°Then what is your problem?¡±


    Jericho was frozen, anger evaporated like water on a hot stove. He worked his jaw for an answer but found no words.


    He heard the whine of his mother¡¯s voice, ¡°You¡¯re nothing but a parasite. I clothed and fed you, and this is how you repay me? Look at what they did to your sister¨Clook at her! That¡¯s on you, because you¡¯re weak. You¡¯ll always be weak. At least I was able to get some coin in my pocket for your miserable life.¡±


    The jingle of coins in his mother¡¯s palm still haunted him.


    ¡°I¡¯m weak.¡± He ground the words between his teeth.


    ¡°I can give you a choice, Jericho Hound, one that will be your own.¡± The monster had already begun to fade, and Arthros¡¯ voice was amicable once again.


    Jericho still had no idea why the Hokkonian was there. What choice could he offer?


    He¡¯s going to kill you. He¡¯s going to enslave you. Why else would a HWND Commander visit you?


    ¡°What kind of choice?¡± Jericho asked.


    ¡°Do you want to pilot a HWND?¡±


    The silence was deafening. Jericho didn¡¯t know whether to laugh in his face or break down in tears. It had to be some sort of sick joke.


    ¡°What are you¨CI don¡¯t understand.¡± Jericho rubbed at his right eye with the heel of his palm.


    Arthros stood upright. The sphere floating above his shoulder pulsed, and an ugly look flickered on his stoic face. He glanced at the sphere and snapped, ¡°He¡¯s unbound!¡±


    He¡¯s talking about me.


    Arthros rubbed at the spot between his eyes with the tip of his middle finger. He swiped at the sphere, and the strike from his hand sent it tumbling away. It quickly returned to the spot on his shoulder.


    Jericho braved a question, ¡°What does unbound mean?¡±


    ¡°It means you have an unprecedented psymetra score,¡± Arthros said flatly, as though that were explanation enough.


    ¡°Psymetra?¡± Jericho echoed.


    Arthros¡¯ lips curled again, and he swiped a grey tongue across the front of his teeth. ¡°I won¡¯t get into details, not now. But know this: all life in the galaxy has a psychosomatic output¡ªan energy reading to quantify power. There are two major factors that contribute to one¡¯s total output: somatic and psymetra scores. They go hand in hand, though the psymetra often bottlenecks the other.¡±


    The explanation sounded gibberish, and Jericho frowned as he tried to follow along.


    He gave up and focused on the one part he understood. ¡°So, if my psymetra score is good, then my power output must be great, right? Good enough that you¡¯re here to recruit me.¡±


    Arthros paused, looked as if he were about to speak, and then turned to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a few days to decide. When I return, I expect an answer.¡±


    ¡°Wait, you didn¡¯t answer my question. What is my power output?¡± he asked.


    Arthros blinked, ¡°It¡¯s very, very bad.¡±


    ¡°But you said my score was good!¡± Jericho protested.


    Arthros narrowed his eyes, ¡°I said unprecedented.¡±


    ¡°So do I even have a chance?¡± Jericho asked.


    The Hokkonian hesitated and the sphere on his shoulder pulsed rapidly. ¡°You probably don¡¯t.¡±


    Jericho swallowed. The rollercoaster of emotions was making him nauseous. ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    The Hokkonian shrugged, ¡°And you won¡¯t, not now. But take comfort in the fact that I believe you are worth my time. Despite your output, you are still unbound.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m unbound,¡± Jericho echoed the words, searching for any shred of significance he could cling to.


    He still didn¡¯t know what they meant, but Arthros¡¯ eyes flashed with an unreadable light when they were spoken.


    ¡°The choice is yours, human. Both options could end with you dead, but only one will give you what you¡¯re looking for,¡± Arthros said.


    Jericho widened his eyes, ¡°Dead?¡±


    Arthros was already gone, slipping out the door with impossible grace for his size. When the door closed, the light was gone and Jericho was left in the darkness to ponder the alien¡¯s words.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    What I¡¯m looking for. What am I looking for? It can¡¯t be real. I¡¯m still high on painkillers.


    But the throbbing in his leg said otherwise. It was a while before sleep came, and when it did, it was filled with dreams of giant alien mechs.


    ***


    ¡°It had to have been a dream,¡± Kyrin said in a disbelieving tone. ¡°That¡¯s just crazy!¡±


    ¡°It is crazy,¡± Jericho said as he watched his girlfriend mix his medications into a chemical soup.


    Her skinny frame was bent over the cabinet by his bed. There was a time when he would have enjoyed the view. Years of torpe abuse had melted away the curves he had appreciated. Now, seeing her like this only made him sad, but what could he really do? He was a pit fighter; it wasn¡¯t exactly a career with health benefits.


    To cope with the constant threat of his demise, Kyrin turned to torpe. It was his fault, really. Everything usually was. He wasn¡¯t even sure if she was still with him because she loved him.


    Every week, she drained his profits and stuffed her pockets with torpe vials. She was with him for the money, the little that he managed to make.


    ¡°You¡¯re nothing,¡± his mother whispered in his ear.


    The nurses had said she could take over his care as long as she followed the rules of the Med Center. He wished that they hadn¡¯t. She could be a little too much to handle while he was in this state. Not to mention the readily available painkillers she could swipe.


    He turned his mind back to Arthros. ¡°You¡¯re not listening to me. It was real. I even looked his name up after he left. The guy is a legend. I knew I recognized his name¡ªhe¡¯s from the stories Dad used to tell me.¡±


    She frowned, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have had any access to your screen. You need rest.¡±


    ¡°Do you even hear what I¡¯m saying? The Arthros was in my room. Last night. Recruiting me.¡± He enunciated the last words like he was speaking to a child.


    She paused with his medicine in hand and gave him a concerned look. Her lips, scarred from the torpe-inflicted chewing, were pursed.


    ¡°And you think that makes sense? I read somewhere that the mind can do amazing things with tiny bits of information, and you were on a lot of drugs.¡±


    He gave her a blank stare, ¡°You don¡¯t actually think I hallucinated that.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that.¡± She hurried to his side and held the glass to his lips.


    ¡°You did¨Cugh!¡± The liquid tipped into his mouth and the bitterness made him gag.


    ¡°Drink up¨Cdrink it all. There you go, yup, mmm that¡¯s not so bad,¡± she cooed.


    He choked at the last amount, wiping the creamy remnants from the corner of his mouth and spitting off the edge of the bed. She was already turning away to set the glass down on the counter.


    ¡°You don¡¯t believe me.¡± He could hear the weariness in his own voice.


    My own girlfriend thinks I¡¯m crazy.


    She started to wash her hands in the water basin and gave him a pouting look. ¡°Of course I believe you honey.¡±


    The patronizing tone irritated him, and he closed his eyes with an exasperated sigh.


    I¡¯m the one who was high and hallucinating? Ironic words coming from a junkie.


    He heard the bed creak and opened his eyes to see Kyrin placing a knee on the mattress. A smile played on her lips as she climbed on top of him. She had tied her messy brown hair up in a bun, but some of it fell in curly lengths down the side of her face. Her big brown eyes were filled with playful light¡ªthe only thing the torpe hadn¡¯t touched. He immediately felt guilty and turned his eyes away from her as she straddled him.


    ¡°Come on Key, I¡¯m not in the mood.¡± He gently pushed at her hips.


    ¡°But I haven¡¯t had a chance to congratulate you yet,¡± she teased.


    He sighed again and watched with a twinge of regret as she slid off the bed. The congratulations would have to wait.


    ¡°I have to make my decision, Key, and I can¡¯t waste any time.¡±


    She gave an indignant sniff. ¡°So, I¡¯m a waste of time?¡±


    ¡°You know I didn¡¯t mean it like that¨CHey! Where are you going? I didn¡¯t mean it like that.¡±


    She stopped at the door and furrowed her brow as she stared at him. ¡°Maybe you should stop with the dreaming and focus on the present. You¡¯re getting a little old for fairytales, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    He felt his jaw drop at the audacity. He was the one who risked his life every day to ensure they even had food to eat. Sooner or later, he was going to die, and then what would she do? Rot in the streets like the other zombie junkies?


    He took a deep breath, ¡°If it is real, then it could be a real opportunity for us.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not.¡± She opened the door but before she left, she looked over her shoulder. ¡°Get some rest. We need you to be healthy for the next fight.¡±


    The next fight. She said it so simply, as though he would survive as surely as he had all the other times. If he just died, she would see how foolish she was being. He wondered if she would be heartbroken.


    It¡¯s not you she¡¯s worried about losing.


    He was alone with his thoughts as he contemplated his future with Kyrin, and the surreal encounter with the Hokkonian. If he did choose to leave with Arthros, what would happen to her? Could she come along? Or would the pilot make him choose? His heart skipped a beat. Would he be able to choose?


    He tried to close his eyes and nap, but sleep evaded him. With a grunt of frustration, he hopped off the bed and grabbed the crutches leaning against the wall beside him. The bone-stitch Kyrin had given him was laced with painkillers, so the throb in his leg was reduced to almost nothing.


    He opened the door and glanced around. The common room was empty save for the circular desk in the center and the nurse who stood there. They locked eyes and she gave him a warm smile.


    ¡°Good morning, Jericho. How are you feeling today?¡± Her black hair fell to her shoulders, framing a sharply featured face with bright green eyes.


    He smiled back, trying desperately to remember her name but failing miserably. ¡°Yeah, the bone-stitch is helping a lot. Have you seen any weird people around? Maybe a couple of nasty looking thugs, or¡­ a Hokkonian?¡±


    The nurse giggled, covering her thin-lipped mouth with a pale hand. ¡°I think that bone-stitch might be doing a little more than helping with the pain. Do Hokkonians even come to Kleth¡¯altho anymore?¡±


    He gave her a sheepish grin. ¡°Nah, I was just joking. I¡¯m going to go for a walk. Is that okay?¡±


    She nodded with a sweet smile, ¡°Just don¡¯t go too far. That bone-stitch works best with elevation.¡±


    He waved goodbye and crutched carefully down an empty hallway¡ªone he knew would lead to more than just a single recovery room.


    I can¡¯t think in these tunnels. I need fresh air.


    He frowned at his cast and the crutches. He would never make it to the surface. He leaned against the wall and shook his head in frustration. He just wanted out.


    The arena!


    The sudden thought kicked him into gear, and he crutched down the hall toward a hallway he knew would eventually lead to the pit. If he could get the open sky above his head, he could think clearly.


    Eventually, the tunnel widened until it led to a broadmouth opening into the massive stadium¡ªthe same place where he had pulled an impossible victory out of thin air. The same arena that raised him.


    It was empty today¡ªone of the three days off during the week. He took a deep breath and glanced up at the sky, cloudless except for the green haze of Rylon exhaust from the refineries. Down here, the air was almost scentless, and you could breathe in a lung-full without coughing.


    What a life you live. You get to breathe without coughing.


    He looked up at the open sky. It was bright out now, probably around midday. Starships zipped across the cloudless sky and Jericho was filled with longing as he watched them pass.


    A life in the stars, that¡¯s what I¡¯m meant for. If I can leave Kleth¡¯altho, I can finally start looking for Dad.


    When Arthros returned, he was expecting an answer, whether he had one or not. Something told him the alien wouldn¡¯t take ¡®I don¡¯t know¡¯ as a valid response.


    ¡°Ironic to find you here, Hound,¡± a grating voice called from behind him.


    Jericho turned to see three humans walking toward him. Two of them he recognized as the thugs from last night, but the one who led them was a familiar face he had known his whole life.


    The fighter had a mop of black hair, green eyes, and a strong nose that only added to the fearsome look he always wore on his face. He was shirtless like usual, and the black-inked archer on his chest seemed to have grown from the added mass he had gained over the years.


    ¡°Dylan, I didn¡¯t take you for a dog walker.¡± Jericho smirked at the goons behind him.


    An outraged look crossed weasel-man¡¯s face, ¡°You mank-headed waste of¨C¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Dylan snarled.


    The skinny human cringed and turned away, muttering darkly under his breath.


    Dylan gave the weasel-man one last disgusted look and turned back to Jericho. ¡°Don¡¯t take this personally, Hound. You know I gotta do what the boss man says.¡±


    ¡°Anything to get on his good side, right bro?¡± Jericho gave him a bleak look and shook his head in disappointment.


    Dylan had been a young teenager when Jericho had first arrived, but despite their shared upbringing, they had never grown close. Piglikow had warned them that friendships spread weakness, and Dylan took that advice to heart.


    The jacked fighter shrugged and motioned at the two behind him to spread out. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re not here to kill you.¡±


    ¡°Weird. I could have sworn I told Pig-Chow to hire female dancers for my victory party.¡±


    Dylan gave him a wry smile. ¡°The boss made a mistake last night. He wants you to know that.¡±


    Jericho glanced at the goons behind him, and then back at Dylan. He raised an eyebrow.


    Get on with it, dickhead.


    ¡°Well, I appreciate the sentiment. Can I go now?¡± Jericho asked.


    ¡°He also wants you to know that you¡¯re no longer welcome in the pits,¡± Dylan said calmly.


    Jericho paused, ¡°Is that coming from him, or the families?¡±


    Dylan wrinkled his nose, ¡°Come on, Hound.¡±


    Of course. The families would have nothing to do with this. Successful fighters were valuable¡ªthey made them a lot of money. If they found out about Pig-Chow¡¯s vendetta, he would be in the hot seat.


    ¡°The families would be pissed if the boss let me walk. I just won an inter-species fight. They¡¯ll be looking to book another one soon,¡± Jericho pointed out.


    Dylan spread his hands wide, ¡°They can¡¯t do anything about it if the resignation comes from you.¡±


    ¡°Why the hell would I¨C?¡± The sentence died as he saw the recorder in the cow-man¡¯s hands.


    They¡¯re going to try and make me resign of my own free will.


    ¡°If you openly admit that you can¡¯t handle the fights anymore, the families will accept that,¡± Dylan smirked.


    As if they would. They¡¯re not known for being ¡®good people¡¯. They¡¯ll toss you in with the Grontar and laugh when you¡¯re ripped apart.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to do that, and you¡¯re not going to make me.¡± The words came out in a weary sigh.


    He was tired, and it was a long walk to his bed.


    Dylan gripped his hands together. His tattoo danced as the muscles in his chest rippled. The muscle-bound freak was a tough win on a good day, and today his leg was shattered, and the bone-stitch was making him dizzy.


    At least Dylan didn¡¯t smile when he wound up for the punch. That had to mean their time spent together meant something, right?


    The punch came low and fast. Jericho tried to step out of the way, but the crutches were clumsy. The strike hit him hard in the gut, driving the air out of his lungs and dropping him to his knees. A thin string of drool dripped from his lips.


    You bastard¨C


    The knee collided hard under his chin, rattling his teeth and sending stars into his vision. Blood welled in his mouth, and he fell hard on his stomach. A knee pinned him to the dirt, pressing hard between his shoulder blades.


    ¡°Alright, whenever you¡¯re ready,¡± Dylan said to the thugs. ¡°Bring that thing over here.¡±


    A small metal device was shoved in Jericho¡¯s face. Jericho stared at it, blood and drool bubbling at his lips as he fought for breath. The dirt felt coarse against his face, and his head throbbed, but at least the pain in his leg was gone. For now.


    ¡°Screw you,¡± he hissed through the dirt.


    Dylan sighed on top of him, ¡°Come on, Hound. Don¡¯t make this harder than it needs to be. Repeat after me, ¡®I¡¯m not good enough.¡¯¡± The knee pressed harder, ¡°Say it.¡±


    He struggled to breathe with Dylan¡¯s weight, and the blood was starting to fill his mouth, but he forced the word out of his mouth, ¡°No.¡±


    The weight from his back lifted, and the air rushed back into his lungs. Before he could take a second breath, he was struck in the head. His skull bounced off the ground, and his vision blurred.


    ¡°Say it, Hound,¡± Dylan hissed, barely audible over the ringing in his ears. ¡°¡®I¡¯m worthless. I don¡¯t belong here.¡¯ Say it!¡±


    Laughter bubbled through the drool. ¡°You¡¯re right. I don¡¯t belong here.¡± He took a shaky breath. ¡°I belong up there, in the stars.¡±


    Dylan didn¡¯t say anything, and he knew that he was staring at him confused.


    ¡°I think you hit ¡®em too hard,¡± a nasally voice said from somewhere above him.


    Dylan let out an exasperated groan and gravel crunched as he crouched by Jericho¡¯s head. ¡°Come on, Hound. It¡¯s not worth it. Just say you quit.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re weak!¡± His mother¡¯s screams drowned out Dylan¡¯s whisper.


    This wasn¡¯t a resignation letter. It was Pig-Chow¡¯s way of getting even. The ugly oaf was there when his mother had sold him away. He had heard the cruelty in her voice, and he had seen the devastating impact it had on him.


    He knows everything about you.


    Jericho pushed himself onto his hands and knees, trying to keep his eyes focused on the blood-covered gravel beneath him.


    This is what Brandon ran from! They don¡¯t care about you. You could win every fight and still not get the respect you deserve. You¡¯re just a number to them¡ªa money maker with an expiration date.


    ¡°You can tell the boss that I¡¯ll leave,¡± he wheezed. ¡°He won¡¯t see me again.¡±


    He glanced up to see Dylan shake his head. ¡°Not good enough. I need to hear you say it.¡±


    Behind him, Weasel-man snickered, and Cow-man studied the gravel between his feet. Jericho wanted to scream in their faces. He wanted to tear into them with his bare hands; wanted to jump on Dylan¡¯s back and beat him senseless with the crutches. Most of all, he wanted to go with Arthros.


    Jericho took a deep breath, ¡°I quit.¡±


    The answer is yes.


    ¡°Not good enough. You know the words you have to say.¡± Dylan gave him an emotionless shrug.


    Jericho¡¯s entire body sagged.


    You¡¯re weak, you know it. It will be so easy just to say those words¡ªthe same words you say to yourself every day.


    He wanted to. He was sure Dylan would leave him alone if he just admitted his deepest fear. Yet at his core, he knew if he uttered those words, it would make them true.


    ¡°No,¡± he muttered through clenched teeth.


    The kick hit him square in the ribs, and he heard an audible crack. It hurt to breathe, but his body involuntarily sucked in air. His lungs felt like they were tearing in two.


    ¡°Say it,¡± Dylan growled.


    He wheezed, hacked, and groaned. ¡°No.¡±


    A hard boot stomped on his hand, and if he¡¯d had the extra oxygen in his lungs, he would have screamed. The recording device was shoved in his face.


    ¡°No,¡± he moaned.


    The beating continued for several minutes, but to Jericho it felt like hours. Dylan beat him to a bloody pulp, stopping every couple of seconds to calmly ask him to speak into the recorder. Every time, he refused.


    When he could no longer talk, he only shook his head. When his vision slipped and unconsciousness threatened to consume him, he just kept his mouth shut.


    Dylan still spoke in his usual bored tone, but near the end, Jericho could have sworn he heard a hint of respect touch the shirtless fighter¡¯s voice.


    He wasn¡¯t conscious when Dylan left, and he woke to find himself alone. The sky was dark above him. His clothes were crusty with dried blood. He closed his eyes, and suddenly the gravel felt just as comfortable as his bed.


    You¡¯re not worthless.

 Chapter 5 - Cyprus

    Cyprus


    Psychosomatic output = Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank = Unavailable


    It was another gorgeous day on Gasaan. The light filtered beautifully through the leaves of the massive trees. The atmosphere was warm and smelled like fresh soil. There was a faint breeze¡ªjust enough to lift the stagnation and humidity from the air, but not enough to bring a chill.


    Gasaan was known as the Jewel of Dromedar for a reason. This kind of weather was experienced year-round. It had a perfect climate that allowed its trees to grow to heights beyond anything seen in the star system.


    Cyprus found the weather infuriatingly perfect, as it made life here feel predictable and mundane. She had visited Titulon and seen the sheer elemental power. Now that she knew the capability of Mother Nature, Gasaan¡¯s perfect weather seemed boring.


    It wasn¡¯t like she wanted to live on Titulon¡ªshe wasn¡¯t a fool. She had a life here; an important one. She was the youngest person to ever acquire a seat on the Dromedar Union Council, and that alone made the ordinary worth it.


    She glanced around the sun-filtered forest floor and took a deep breath. Gasaan even smelled perfect. The dirt road she walked on was littered with leaves, small plants, and moss.


    The union tried to keep Gasaan as untouched by civilization as possible¡ªan agreement that was made with the locals. They were gracious enough to offer their home world as a sanctuary to the council. In return, Gasaan¡¯s autonomy would be their own without any fear of industrial development.


    Not that they could even be industrialized.


    Gasaan was home to dangerous beasts¡ªmurderous prowlers that preyed from the forest¡¯s shadows. It would take nothing short of genocide to ensure the safety of any workers.


    Today, she didn¡¯t care about the danger. The platformed city above was often congested, and she needed space to clear her head.


    If a prowler caught her scent, she was confident she could outrun it. The wooden steps that led to safety weren¡¯t far.


    She stepped onto the first plank and kept close to the trunk as she began her climb. She ran her hands along the smooth bark of the tree and focused on the texture. The feeling kept her grounded and distracted her from the dizzying ascent.


    She refused to let her irrational fear best her. She was a council member¡ªnot a little girl.


    Before long, she reached the platformed city. It spanned several miles, connecting hundreds of titan trees with smooth, polished wood. There were countless structures scattered across the platform, but their size paled in comparison to the Union Council headquarters. It was a beautifully crafted building, nestled in the crook of two titan trees.


    The location was a strategic decision. The trees offered a natural defense against any of the prowlers attempting to make the climb.


    She set her pace to a brisk walk, nodding at some of the locals who sat enjoying the weather.


    ¡°Councilwoman, Cyprus! Councilwoman, Cyprus! I thought that was you,¡± a voice called.


    Cyprus turned and suppressed a groan with a forced smile. ¡°Maggie. I would love to chat, but I have to prepare for the meeting today.¡±


    Maggie pushed her wide-rimmed glasses back up on her face. Mousey brown hair framed her face, falling past her shoulders in a tangled mess of frizzy curls. Cyprus couldn¡¯t help but cringe at the hero-worship shine in her eyes, magnified by the thick lenses of her glasses.


    ¡°Oh, was there another meeting scheduled today? Outer-layer representatives, maybe?¡± Maggie inquired.


    What in Drom¡¯s name is this helpless woman talking about now?


    ¡°Saturdays are reserved for Dromedar-wide business and major events only,¡± Cyprus replied with strained patience.


    Maggie combed at her unkempt hair in an unsuccessful attempt to tame it. Cyprus fought the unnecessary urge to smooth her own blonde hair in response. It was neatly tied away in a tight braid.


    The woman chewed at chapped lips. ¡°Well, I know that. It¡¯s just that there¡¯s a meeting happening right now.¡±


    ¡°What? No. You¡¯re mistaken.¡±


    Maggie shifted awkwardly, ¡°The public announcement on my screen says 8:00 am.¡±


    Cyprus glared at the screen clutched in Maggie¡¯s hands, and she reached for the black leather satchel slung across her shoulder. Maggie was right. The public announcement said 8:00.


    She flipped to her own messages¡ªthe official ones that came directly from the other council members. Meeting starts at 9:00.


    She gripped the screen until her knuckles whitened and cursed through clenched teeth. ¡°That dick!¡±


    She thought it had been weird that he was sending the message this week.


    ¡°Councilwoman?¡± Maggie said.


    She shoved her screen back into her satchel and stormed toward the Hall. She didn¡¯t bother to say goodbye.


    She hoped the look of fury on her face would be an effective deterrent for anyone who might try and stop her.


    ¡°Matteo better have chosen a seat far from mine today,¡± she muttered darkly.


    That pigheaded idiot doesn¡¯t know what he¡¯s messed with! We¡¯re not classmates anymore¡ªI¡¯m not my sister. I¡¯m a councilwoman!


    Her sister had always been more lighthearted¡ªquick to smile and share a laugh. But she wasn¡¯t there anymore to calm her down.


    Her sister, Brianna, was dead.


    It was a fact that didn¡¯t seem real. Cyprus was still processing the news seven years later. The woman had been everything she was and more¡ªa true inspiration to humans everywhere.


    She never should have been on that list. Powerful families were exempt from the slave pledge. Everyone knew that.


    Everyone except the Hokkonians.


    It wasn¡¯t long before news of her death travelled to Gasaan, along with some nasty rumors about the nature of her demise¡ªrumors that shattered her family to pieces.


    Cyprus was still recovering, and most days, her mind was filled with darkness. The Hokkonians would pay for what they did, and revenge would be delivered by her hand.


    The Dromedar Union Council was the logical target. If she could gain enough support among the other representatives, she could reverse the treaty and abolish the slave pledge. Though, that was proving more difficult than she expected. The Hokku Sovereignty elicited fear, and there was no shortage of terror here.


    They¡¯re all cowards!


    Still fuming, she reached the massive structure. It had been made entirely from the wood of Gasaan¡¯s titan trees. Its two doors were built to accommodate the largest sentient species in Dromedar. There were two large pillars on either side of the doors, extending from the base of the structure all the way to the roof. Every inch of the polished hardwood had been hand-carved into beautifully intricate symbols and depictions of local history.


    ¡°Uhch Gra¡¯ ta Cyprus,¡± a guttural voice said.


    A hulking, bestial figure stood in the dimly lit hall. grey fur glowed from the light of the torches illuminating the inner halls of the wooden palace. Small black eyes peered at her with warmth over a stubby snout. The beast¡¯s limbs were armored by plates of metal, while its curved claws were tipped with sharpened steel. The creature was holding a fishing spear¡ªa tribal weapon carried only by members of the Raldazar¡¯ad, the lake dwellers.


    Cyprus smiled when she recognized the facial markings inked beneath the alien¡¯s eyes. It was the only true way to discern between the Skaal.


    ¡°Unch Gra¡¯ ta Darhoki,¡± she replied in her best Skaalar.


    She either blessed the currents of his river travel or wished for strong swimming. It was impossible to tell the two phrases apart. To her, all of it sounded like guttural grunting.


    Nonetheless, Darhoki looked pleased at the response. She had practiced forever to perfect the greeting. She was so proud of herself that she almost forgot her anger.


    Almost.


    Her smile faded and she dipped her head in farewell. The Skaal waved a massive paw in response, and the steel-tipped talons clinked together with audible menace. She had half a mind to drag Darhoki into the meeting with her. Maybe then Matteo would think twice about sabotaging her.


    She dismissed the idea and headed down the hall toward the chamber room. Darhoki was there to protect against Prowlers¡ªnot to serve as her personal bodyguard.


    When she reached the chamber doors, she slammed her shoulder into the slab of wood and forced it open with a grunt of exertion.


    It was an aggressive entrance, but that was the point.


    Twenty-two heads at the great oval table swung in unison to stare at her, as did the eleven that sat behind the raised table a few meters away.


    Yeah, that¡¯s right. Stare. I don¡¯t care.


    She marched toward the empty seat with as much confidence as she could muster, trying hard to ignore the excruciating silence.


    ¡°Nice of you to finally join us, Miss Atik,¡± came the disapproving tone from Headmaster Giantis.


    ¡°There was an error in my timetable. Please forgive my tardiness, Headmaster.¡± Cyprus faked an apologetic smile through clenched teeth.


    She settled herself in the uncomfortable wooden chair and shot daggers at Matteo who sat on the opposite end of the table.


    He was a tall, lanky man, with neatly trimmed brown hair. His collared shirt was too large for him, and the collar wrapped loosely around his neck. He returned her glare with one of his own, his mischievous grin vanishing.


    They had been friends at one point, and in a different life, that friendship might have remained intact. In this life, her sister was dead.


    ¡°Of course, Miss Atik. I trust you¡¯ll make sure it doesn¡¯t happen again?¡± The weariness was evident in his voice.


    She dipped her head, ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    Thank you for not making it worse, Grandad.


    She let out a low breath. The good news was that she already missed a good chunk of the boring stuff. It was the final portion that she was there for anyway.


    The meeting continued for another 45 minutes, covering primary concerns that had been brought forth by civilians. The Supreme Panel did most of the talking. They carried most of the weight when it came to making decisions, which was why Cyprus had been trying for the last two years to secure a position there. There was only room for one human on the panel. The other eight positions were reserved for alien representatives of the other union planets.


    That final hurdle had proven more difficult than she first expected.


    She had no problem gaining favor from the citizens, but it was the vote of her peers that she needed to win. Unfortunately for her, burning bridges was her specialty, and that political strategy didn¡¯t foster goodwill.


    ¡°All in favor of the desalination pod construction?¡± the headmaster asked.


    Cyprus put up a lazy hand as she traced circles on the polished dark wood with the other. The Titulonists first put the bid in for desalination pods over five months ago. It made sense given the sodium crisis their neighbors were currently dealing with and had been dealing with for close to a year. That was the problem with the Union. It took too long to make any meaningful decisions.


    There was a majority showing of hands, which meant the Union approved. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Now we can finally stop discussing financials over damn salt makers. There are bigger problems!


    ¡°I will now open the floor to any members. Please speak freely,¡± Giantis said.


    Finally!


    She stood up immediately, scraping her chair on the floor loudly as she did so. The action caught everyone¡¯s attention. She saw some members roll their eyes while others waited intently for what she had to say. She slapped her hands on the table and leaned in, keeping her expression fierce.


    ¡°We have a year left until The Sovereignty requests more pledged slaves. That¡¯s one million more souls that we¡¯re condemning.¡± She surveyed the room, daring anyone to deny her claim.


    ¡°Not this again,¡± someone muttered.


    A few others groaned. Giantis¡¯ tired eyes never left hers, and weariness settled on his shoulders.


    ¡°When was the last time you saw a Hokku patrol in the inner layers? Ordan is as far as they come these days. What are we paying them for?¡± she demanded.


    ¡°The Union doesn¡¯t require Hokkonian assistance in the inner layer,¡± a male Titulonist said in a watery voice. ¡°We have our own navy for those sorts of patrols.¡±


    The Titulonist¡¯s black scaled body was covered in a thick layer of mucus. It used to bother Cyprus, but she¡¯d been around the aquatic species long enough to ignore it¡ªeven when the substance dripped onto the floor with an audible thwip.


    What she couldn¡¯t ignore were the murmurs of agreement that circulated the table.


    Cyprus gave her head an angry shake, ¡°That¡¯s exactly my point. Their jurisdiction has shrunk, but their demand remains the same. The Union cannot develop if we pledge a million citizens every three years. How many of you have lost loved ones? Or know people who have?¡±


    The chamber grew quiet, and she knew she had hooked a few more.


    ¡°We need them,¡± someone muttered across the table.


    Cyprus scoffed, ¡°They need us! How much of the Sovereignty has been built by the hands of slaves? We send off our people in ship loads, and in return we get ¡®protection.¡¯ The last time I checked, we could protect ourselves. They¡¯re choking life out of this system and we are enabling them to do so! Don¡¯t you ever wonder what¡¯s beyond our borders? The resources and trade we¡¯re missing out on?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s right,¡± someone called out.


    ¡°Why else did we approve the funding for a Union Navy?¡± another asked.


    The human on the supreme panel cleared her throat to quiet the growing ramble. ¡°It is not the inner layer that needs protection, but the outer layer. We do need their patrols along the border. Resources outside our perimeter mean nothing if pirates destroy our ships before they can return.¡±


    Joy Sretep¡ªa woman who commanded authority with an ease that made her jealous. In the world of politics, she was as vicious as the Prowlers. She was the youngest councilor ever to be named to the supreme panel, and she had held her seat for the last thirty years.


    Cyprus planned on beating that record.


    She slammed her fists onto the table. ¡°With all due respect, Ms. Sretep, we didn¡¯t ask for that. We¡¯ll never know what¡¯s waiting for us beyond this star if Hokku keeps us boxed in. Think of the relationships we could build. If we expand, with Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s help, we could easily patrol our own borders.¡±


    ¡°I think the Corpos made it very clear what they think of our government. They would never help,¡± Joy replied coolly.


    Cyprus shrugged, ¡°You never know until you ask.¡±


    Someone muttered in agreement, and she couldn¡¯t help but smile. Maybe today was the day she finally won the majority.


    Giantis brought a hush to the chamber as he spoke up. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple, and I¡¯m sure you all understand that. We cannot just refuse the pledge. It is a tragedy we lose so many, but sacrifices must be made to save the lives of billions more. That was the basis of our treaty. It doesn¡¯t matter how wrong you think it is, Miss Atik. It is what this council agreed upon, and we did so to end a war that nearly ruined us all.¡±


    ¡°That was 300 hundred years ago! We almost won then¡ªthink about what we could do now!¡± Cyprus growled.


    ¡°They have the HWNDs now,¡± an Ordanian said in a bleak tone.


    Cyprus faltered. The mechs were a problem, though she¡¯d spent a long time thinking of a solution.


    ¡°We still have our numbers. HWNDs or not, as a collective group, the Union could overwhelm them.¡±


    ¡°What are you suggesting, Atik?¡± a Myrd rasped, his six yellow eyes narrowed with interest, and his bulbous lips pulled back in an intrigued smile.


    Cyprus had to repress a shiver at his predatory gaze. The Myrd¡¯s affinity for violence was an evolutionary side effect. Their centaur-like bodies were comprised entirely of lean muscle, and all six of their limbs had equal power and coordination. They were natural born killers, but intelligent enough to see the value in democracy. Still, Cyprus was only partially convinced by their political facade. She had a gut feeling that the union would eventually lose Asho and the Myrds from the planetary alliance.


    She matched his energy with her own feral grin. ¡°We build an army¡ªone that could withstand the might of the Sovereignty. We could use it to persuade Kleth¡¯altho.¡±


    The Myrd tilted his head, and his eyes gleamed. Around the table, she saw others nod and whisper with their neighbors.


    This is good. I have them!


    ¡°And the HWNDs?¡± Giantis asked. ¡°You still don¡¯t have an answer for the Sovereignty¡¯s Dragoons.¡±


    She made a line with her mouth. There was only one answer to that problem¡ªone she was hoping she could avoid until after she won the vote. ¡°We have to make our own.¡±


    Giantis didn¡¯t react. His tired eyes only drooped further. The rest of the chamber seemed to sigh as a collective. It was an impossible task. Even the engineers on Titulon couldn¡¯t figure it out in their underwater labs.


    A Sk¡¯reah spoke up, his eyestalks bobbing subconsciously from the excitement of the conversation. ¡°You think Hokku machines be replicated? We not good. We not smart.¡±


    Cyprus suppressed her distaste, and not for the first time, wished that it was the Skaal chosen to represent Gasaan. Why the Union settled on the insectoid species was beyond her comprehension.


    ¡°We don¡¯t need to match them in quality; we just need something to fight those things,¡± she insisted.


    Headmaster Giantis held up his hand and slowly stood up out of his chair. ¡°This meeting has gone on long enough. We will take it to a vote.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m not done yet!¡± Cyprus stamped her feet.


    She was acting like a child, but she didn¡¯t care. She almost had them! She was this close!


    ¡°Yes, you are. Those in favor of breaking the treaty with a military force in preparation for war?¡± The old man swept his gaze around the table.


    You old goat!


    A few hands were raised, but it wasn¡¯t nearly enough. The other council members were too afraid. Cyprus couldn¡¯t blame them, but it angered her all the same. Sure, it was scary, but so was the thought of sending another million people to their deaths.


    ¡°Those against?¡± Giantis¡¯ voice was quiet.


    The rest of the council raised their hands, including every member of the supreme panel. Cyprus frowned and gritted her teeth. She needed more time to convince them. She pushed herself out of the chair and stormed out of the chamber, not caring about the looks of disapproval she received from the panel.


    She stepped outside of the palace and onto the wooden platform. The faint breeze was a welcome comfort. An armored claw rested on her shoulder, and she turned around to see Darhoki towering over her, his small black eyes filled with concern.


    ¡°Ufff Unch?¡± the grey-furred Skaal asked.


    ¡°No. I¡¯m not, Darhoki. Things are very bad,¡± she muttered.


    The Skaal dropped to his haunches, causing the planks to squeak under his weight. He motioned toward the titan trees with a large paw.


    ¡°Fi ack tuh Ga¡¯ala gohl Darhoki nn Cyprus. Ga¡¯ala unch.¡±


    Cyprus nodded. She didn¡¯t fully understand, but she got the gist. The Skaal worshiped the planet itself: Ga¡¯ala, the Great Mother. It was all they really cared about.


    ¡°We are blessed to have Ga¡¯ala watching over us, but there is more to this star system than Ga¡¯ala,¡± she murmured.


    Darhoki rested his spear on the platform and sat down, his armor clinking together as he did so. His broad nose wrinkled as he looked at Cyprus.


    ¡°Ga¡¯ala unch, Daz unch.¡±


    Sometimes, she envied the simple life of the Skaals. She wasn¡¯t even sure they were aware of Hokku¡¯s existence. Three hundred years ago, the Hokkonian crusades ended before it could reach Gasaan. The Skaal had no concept of the evil that floated on the edge of the star system. The Prowlers paled in comparison to the mechanized suits of armor.


    She gave her furry friend a sad smile. ¡°You¡¯re right, Darhoki. Ga¡¯ala is good.¡±


    Darhoki looked pleased, and if she wasn¡¯t mistaken, she thought she recognized a knowing smile hidden in his bestial features.


    Something vibrated in the satchel on her back. She reached into the leather pouch and pulled out her screen. A message appeared, floating a few inches off the screen of the tab.


    ¡°Come see me.¡± It was from Giantis.


    She let out an annoyed sigh. ¡°I¡¯ll see you later, Dar. I¡¯ve got someone to yell at.¡±


    She got up and stalked back toward the wooden hall. Someone called her name, and she turned to see Maggie chasing after her, clutching a satchel that looked suspiciously like a replica of her own.


    This woman doesn¡¯t know how to take a hint!


    There was a narrow passage that trailed between the Union Council headquarters and a titan tree. She ran for it. If she could just slip into the corridor, Maggie would leave her alone. Everyone knew it was off limits.


    Except for Cyprus of course.


    She slipped past an old wooden gate, and Maggie¡¯s calls silenced instantly. The alley followed the natural bend of the titan tree¡¯s trunk, and it led to a large courtyard hidden from the rest of the city.


    Three titan trees naturally clustered in a triangular pattern created the walls of the area. The open gaps between the trees were filled with wooden planks, creating a sanctuary against the Prowlers and other nasty beasts.


    In the middle of the courtyard was a basic Union cruiser, large enough for a single navigator and living quarters. It was cylindrical in shape, with a pointed nose and three fins¡ªone on top and one on either side of the dull green hull.


    Leaning against the nose was the headmaster.


    Cyprus frowned at the cruiser. ¡°A little early for a joyride. Or were you on your way to a dinner date with a Hokkonian?¡±


    The old man grimaced. ¡°Funny, my dear. Very funny. Not even those grey-skinned animals would care for an old man¡¯s company, I¡¯m afraid.¡±


    Cyprus sighed and walked up to him, kissing him gently on the cheek. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t been around much, Granddad.¡±


    He waved a wrinkled hand, ¡°Don¡¯t apologize. You¡¯re a woman now. You don¡¯t need to be hanging around an old man like me, though I still wouldn¡¯t mind a little more communication. I had no idea you were going to be late today.¡±


    She clenched her fists. ¡°Neither did I! That prick, Matteo, set me up.¡±


    Giantis winced, ¡°Language, please.¡±


    Cyprus muttered an apology and rubbed her temple with a forefinger. ¡°It was Matteo¡¯s turn to send out the messages, and for my timetable, he scheduled the meeting for nine instead of eight. On purpose.¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯ll deal with him right away¨C¡±


    Cyprus sighed, ¡°No, you can¡¯t interfere. He¡¯ll know I told you and then everyone will find out. I won¡¯t be able to get the panel to listen to me if they think I¡¯m engaging in childish games.¡±


    The old man hacked a cough into the crook of his elbow. ¡°Yes, about that. It¡¯s actually why I called you over here.¡±


    Cyprus narrowed her eyes; he had never coughed like that before. ¡°Hey, are you doing okay?¡±


    He wiped his mouth on the loose sleeves of his green robe and shook off her hand. ¡°Stop it, I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    She raised an eyebrow and stooped in front of his face, forcing him to make eye contact. ¡°You look tired.¡±


    He snorted, ¡°Governing Dromedar will do that to you. It¡¯s been a long day.¡±


    The sun filtered through the leaves, and the birds sang from somewhere in the branches.


    Cyprus frowned, ¡°It¡¯s not even eleven.¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± he snapped, and Cyprus¡¯ eyes widened. ¡°I didn¡¯t call you for a checkup. This is for you.¡±


    What¡¯s with him?


    He slapped his hand on the hull of the ship, and Cyprus tried to ignore the sting of his raised voice. She gave the ship an appraising look.


    ¡°I already have one,¡± she said.


    Giantis shook his head. ¡°Not one rigged for outer-layer travel.¡±


    ¡°Why would I need something like that?¡±


    The old man blinked weary eyes. ¡°Because it¡¯s time you spent more time in the outer layers before you get this entire star system thrown into a civil war.¡±


    He wouldn¡¯t.


    ¡°An assignment out there might show you how beneficial the Hokkonians are,¡± Giantis continued.


    ¡°Granddad.¡±


    She could feel her goal slipping away, just out of reach. He couldn¡¯t be serious. He wouldn¡¯t do this.


    ¡°Besides, you¡¯ve always said we would have to convince Kleth¡¯altho to join the cause,¡± Giantis offered weakly.


    Any progress I¡¯ve made here will be gone. They¡¯ll forget about me in a month.


    Giantis made a hard line with his mouth and placed a strong hand on her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m assigning you to Terminus 14.¡±


    The worst possible answer.


    ¡°The snooze station? No. No way. I¡¯m not going out there. It¡¯s the farthest possible Union outpost from Gasaan. I would never be able to¨C¡± The words died on her tongue when she saw the look of guilt on the wrinkled face of the headmaster. ¡°You¡¯re trying to get rid of me.¡±


    ¡°Of course not, Cyprus,¡± he croaked.


    ¡°No. You don¡¯t want me here because you¡¯re worried I might actually convince some people of the truth.¡± She shook her head in disbelief.


    Giantis scoffed, and his frustration returned. ¡°This is exactly what I¡¯m talking about. You don¡¯t understand the truth¡ªnot all of it at least.¡±


    ¡°I understand enough,¡± Cyprus said defiantly.


    How could he be justifying the slaves? What about my sister?


    Giantis sighed and walked a few steps away, shaking his head and staring at his hands. ¡°This will be good for you. Everyone needs a little time out in the field.¡±


    She stared at him, wrestling with the different emotions boiling inside of her. She was supposed to be the Union¡¯s prodigy, but now she was being swept away to a backwater outpost like a shameful mistake.


    ¡°Whatever you think I¡¯ll see out there, it¡¯s not going to change what I think about the Hokkonians. I know who they are and what they¡¯re capable of. I don¡¯t care if they¡¯re protecting us from giant planet-eating space worms. What they did to Brianna¨C¡± her voice broke.


    Giantis placed a comforting arm on her shoulder, but she shook it away with an angry jerk of her body.


    ¡°She¡¯s gone because of them,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to forgive them. I only want you to experience more than just the tranquility of the inner layer. There is a reason we agreed to the treaty. At one point, we needed them. Whether that is true now, I don¡¯t know. You are not the only one asking questions these days, Cyprus. Don¡¯t give me that look. I¡¯m not saying I agree with you. But I will say this: necessary evil weighs just as heavy on the scale, and I am starting to feel that weight every morning I walk down those stairs.¡±


    She took a moment to really look at the old man. His regal gracefulness was fractured by the consequences of age. He stooped a little lower, and the skin drooping on his face looked like melting wax. There was still a bright light in his eyes, but they were sunken in his gaunt features. Giantis was getting old. Too old.


    Despite her frustration, she gave him a hug, wrapping her arms around his shoulders like she used to when she was a girl. He was bonier than the last time she had embraced him.


    ¡°Is this an official request?¡± Her words were muffled by the folds of his robe.


    He gently pried himself away from her embrace and gave her a sad smile. ¡°Yes. You leave tomorrow morning. They are expecting you.¡±


    She had no choice but to accept the order. He was family, but he was also the grand headmaster. His word was law.


    She turned her attention to the cruiser. From the outside, it looked identical to her own ship. On the inside, she knew it would be rigged with a bunk, a comfort station, and whatever other essentials she would need for the long journey. Planet hopping in the inner layers would be fast, but traversing Dromedar¡¯s belt would take several days.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do it,¡± she said.

 Chapter 6 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output = 10,000 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank = Unbound


    Arthros climbed out of the fighting pit and scanned the dark horizon for an outline of his HWND. He was itching to get back to The Reckless and study what little data Zero might have found. His interaction with Jericho would have given her enough data for a more accurate scan of his brain.


    He looked around for the HWND; Zero had only left his shoulder a few moments ago.


    ¡°Zero, I¡¯m ready. Where are you?¡± he thought.


    There was a pause before her voice entered his mind¡¯s ear, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±


    The HWND appeared from behind a large outcrop of stone. Its humanoid frame looked around for a moment, before it took a couple of bounding leaps toward him. The pulse engines on either shoulder ignited briefly to give it an extra lift, and the mech easily cleared the distance. It landed in a partial squat directly in front of him, knees flexed to absorb the landing, and the ground trembled from the impact.


    A small lizard close by was startled, and it gave the HWND an angry hiss before disappearing behind a large stone.


    Arthros stowed the Skarthkas and grabbed hold of the HWND¡¯s extended arm. With an athletic swing, he whipped himself around the HWND¡¯s torso, and onto its back.


    Arthros climbed into the cockpit and eagerly pressed himself into the biosynthetic mold. He took manual control of the HWND and flew into the air, breaking through the cloud line. A small, yellow light glowed in his view¡ªa virtual indicator of The Reckless¡¯ position. He shot toward the beacon.


    ¡°You¡¯re certain he is worth it?¡± Zero asked.


    ¡°No, but he has potential.¡±


    ¡°As did the others, according to you.¡±


    He reactivated the somatosensory receptors, and instantly felt the rushing wind on his face as he soared through the sky. It felt good after being in the stagnant pit.


    ¡°The others weren¡¯t unbound, and he definitely has some Klethonian blood.¡±


    ¡°And that¡¯s enough for you to make a decision?¡± Zero sounded irritated.


    She was skeptical, which was understandable. There was a limit to what she could compute, and she lacked the intuition that a biological had. Arthros thought back to the human¡¯s confidence in the pit, and his tenacious determination in the Med Center.


    ¡°He has an insatiable desire to be better than he is.¡±


    ¡°I suppose that could be powerful,¡± Zero admitted.


    Arthros nodded, ¡°Or self-destructive.¡±


    ¡°Well, he still needs to survive the integration. His psychosomatic output was terrible regardless of his psymetra limits,¡± she said.


    Arthros didn¡¯t reply. If the young human had his brain melted like the others, then it would be a disappointing flight back to Hokku.


    Before long, they were back at the landing pad. The Reckless was almost invisible in the night¡¯s darkness. Arthros landed in front of the ship and opened the cockpit door. As the biosynthetic mold loosened, he pulled himself out of it and leapt backward. Even at his height the drop from the massive machine was signanifct, and his feet stung when they landed on the compacted soil.


    He glanced at the small office building on the far side of the landing bay. A small window glowed from its interior light.


    ¡°Stay active. If the workers here reported the killing, a Corpos patrol could be here at any time,¡± he muttered to Zero.


    ¡°Yes Arthros.¡±


    He strode up The Reckless¡¯ loading ramp, which was lowered and waiting for him. He filled his lungs with the fresh air circulating through the ship. He was happy to be rid of Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s stench and grime.


    He strode to his quarters at the back of The Reckless, and brushed his fingers against the braided hammock as he walked into the room.


    Soon he would sleep. He eased himself into the chair by his desk, and in response a pale, white globe materialized. It hovered above the desk¡¯s surface, slowly rotating.


    He tapped on a few keys at the desk and the globe changed to resemble Kleth¡¯altho. He touched the hologram''s surface, and the image changed again to display his current location. After a few more manipulations, he was able to bring up a view of the fighting pit, and beside it was a list of registered fighters.


    Jericho Hound¡¯s name was near the bottom of the list.


    He touched the name and the information that flashed in front of him wasn¡¯t very helpful¡ªbasic statistics of his weight, height, past fights, and a physical description. There was no family history or listed residence.


    Arthros frowned. He flicked his wrist on the screen and the hologram changed again, back to an image of the pit. He typed Jericho¡¯s name on the surface of the desk. He didn¡¯t come up in the registry.


    ¡°Zero, cross-reference the statistics from the fighter registry with the citizen registry of all humans with the first name Jericho.¡±


    ¡°Done. There are four matching the same description¡ªtwo recently deceased, one in a region on the other side of the planet...¡±


    ¡°And the fourth?¡±


    The holographic image shifted, and the portrait of a young boy stared at him¡ªthe childhood version of Jericho.


    ¡°That¡¯s him.¡±


    ¡°There is no record of him existing past age seven.¡±


    ¡°Well, the corporations aren¡¯t famed for being great record keepers,¡± Arthros admitted.


    ¡°No, but any purchase would have automatically updated the registry. Kleth¡¯altho citizens are required to wear chips,¡± Zero reminded him.


    Arthros¡¯ spines quivered, ¡°Someone removed it.¡±


    ¡°Removal of chips is considered a federal offense.¡±


    He tapped the tips of his teeth together as he stared at the child¡¯s face¡ªa wide smile, eager eyes, and shaggy red hair.


    Someone wanted this little boy invisible.


    ¡°Must have been his parents,¡± he said quietly.


    ¡°His mother, a torpe addict, was recently admitted to a clean house in the neighboring region.¡±


    He narrowed his eyes as the image shifted to a woman. Her skin hung loose on her face, and it was covered with open sores and scabs. Her eyes sunk deep into her head, and her chapped lips were scarred. Her hair was the only healthy thing about her appearance, and it shone like spilled blood.


    ¡°And his father?¡± Arthros asked.


    ¡°A pledged slave¡ªengineer division. Lucas Riley.¡±


    The woman¡¯s face changed, replaced by the portrait of a skinny man, with neatly cropped blonde hair, and aged skin. He shared the same, naturally defiant expression as Jericho. Arthros leaned closer to the image. There was something very familiar about the man.


    ¡°Riley¡­¡± The name sounded familiar, but he couldn¡¯t remember why. Perhaps he had met the human before, though he didn¡¯t recognize his face.


    ¡°Strange, Lucas Riley is recorded as a pledged slave, but the name Riley was added years later. Additionally, he was brought into slavery outside of a pledge year,¡± Zero noted.


    That was rare, but it did happen. Criminal cases were the only exception. He was more interested in the name.


    A sudden thought struck him, and a pit formed in his stomach. ¡°What was his name before?¡±


    ¡°Redacted, unauthorized information,¡± Zero replied.


    Arthros snorted. He was a HWND Commander. There wasn¡¯t any information that was unauthorized from him. Before he could pry, the hologram flashed and chimed out a warning. Arthros let out a groan.


    ¡°Incoming transmission. It¡¯s the Admiral,¡± Zero warned.


    He smoothed the spines on his head and took an irritated breath. ¡°Put her through.¡±


    The hologram shifted and a Hokkonian face appeared. Her grey skin was pale and speckled with dark spots. Her white eyes stared at him coldly, and he was sure her spines would be erect if it weren¡¯t for the decorated cap she wore on her head.


    ¡°Admiral, I thought I specifically requested not to be contacted on my vacation,¡± he said in an amicable tone.


    The Admiral snorted, ¡°Any requests were denied the moment you deactivated your locator. You¡¯re lucky I didn¡¯t send a unit to haul you back the moment you went dark.¡± If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    He flashed a dangerous smile, ¡°We both know how that would have gone.¡±


    The Admiral¡¯s nostrils twitched, and she gave him an irritated glare. ¡°There¡¯s been a perimeter breach.¡±


    He raised a hairless brow, ¡°And? We have countless every day. Just send the nearest patrol to intercept.¡±


    The Admiral¡¯s face twitched, ¡°I did. They were¡­eliminated.¡±


    He froze, ¡°A full patrol?¡±


    ¡°Half.¡±


    ¡°Half of a Navy patrol?¡± he ventured.


    Please let it be a Navy patrol.


    The Admiral clenched her jaw, ¡°No, HWNDs. wo Novawolves.¡±


    No!


    ¡°We haven¡¯t lost a HWND in over four years!¡± he leaned back in his chair, and it creaked under his movement. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°the Storm, along Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s border.¡±


    He scoffed, ¡°That¡¯s impossible. There¡¯s nothing coming out of there.¡±


    She shook her head, ¡°There was. Remember that scout ship we intercepted a week ago? I was just going over the incident report when I got the news of a perimeter breach.¡±


    ¡°So, you sent a couple of HWNDs to check it out.¡±


    She nodded, ¡°Second division¡ªSratho and Mladios. They were good pilots.¡±


    Arthros cursed, he knew them. Sratho was a good-natured soldier, and always kind to Arthros¡¯ division despite their races. Mladios he never cared for, but it still hurt to lose pilots.


    ¡°You¡¯re sure they¡¯re dead?¡±


    The Admiral nodded again, ¡°We got the termination message from their AI. I want you to go check it out.¡±


    He squeezed his eyes shut and knuckled his forehead out of frustration. ¡°My vacation just started. Send a full patrol. They¡¯ll have a better shot at it than just one pilot.¡±


    She gave him a flat stare, ¡°Don¡¯t fish for compliments, Arthros. It¡¯s beneath you.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t¨C¡± He bared his teeth and smoothed the spines that threatened to shoot up. ¡°If it¡¯s an order¡­¡±


    ¡°It is. You¡¯re the only one who can handle it.¡± The Admiral signed off, and her image winked out of view.


    He was left staring at the wall behind his desk, working his jaw as he fought the urge to smash his fists into the console. Sure, his trip to Kleth¡¯altho wasn¡¯t exactly authorized, but he thought there was an unspoken agreement. He needed time off. He was going insane on that wretched planet.


    ¡°That is the duty of a pilot,¡± Zero responded to his thoughts.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lecture me, Zero. Please.¡± He pushed himself out of his chair and grabbed the Skarthkas that he had leaned against the wall beside him.


    ¡°Load up the HWND,¡± he commanded.


    He felt The Reckless shift and groan as Zero maneuvered the HWND onto the ship¡¯s back and loaded itself into the holding compartment.


    ¡°I¡¯ve uploaded the coordinates Admiral Zludikai sent over,¡± Zero said.


    He walked over to the cockpit and collapsed into the navigation chair. A small holographic map appeared in front of him. There was a small, glowing indicator along the Storm¡¯s edge.


    ¡°Has anyone ever been able to traverse the Storm?¡± he asked.


    ¡°It has been a few generations, but there are records of the neighboring species travelling through to meet for trade,¡± Zero replied.


    Arthros imagined the phenomenon that was the Storm. The thought of travelling through the torrent of charged energy seemed impossible. ¡°After all these years, they come back just to declare war?¡±


    ¡°They are only described as peaceful, reserved, and weak.¡±


    He snorted, ¡°Until now. If they can get through the Storm, that alone makes them dangerous.¡±


    The Storm was supposed to be impenetrable. With the Sovereignty¡¯s thinning population, they relied on the Storm as a natural barrier.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have to fortify that perimeter,¡± Zero said.


    He barked out a harsh laugh, ¡°We don¡¯t have the numbers.¡±


    She didn¡¯t reply. She knew about Hokku¡¯s population problem better than anyone. It was a crisis that the Sovereignty seemed keen to ignore. Once again, their arrogance prohibited them from admitting weakness.


    The Reckless shot into the air as the thrusters flared to life. Within seconds, they were rocketing through Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s thinning atmosphere toward the anchored, orbital gate.


    Rows of individual pods made up the entirety of the gate, and they were tied together by an electromagnetic field. They circled the planet like a ring, enabling them to track all incoming and outgoing traffic across the surface of the world.


    Arthros was lost in his own thoughts and didn¡¯t bother to activate the cloak. Let them discover his presence. What were they going to do? He was too distracted to care.


    The anticipation of a human pilot and the apprehension of dead Hokkonian pilots mixed like oil and water, churning into a sloppy paste of emotion that solidified into a cold, bitter rage.


    Whoever was behind the destruction of the HWNDs would quickly discover just how dire the consequences of those actions would be.


    Within an hour of travel, they arrived at the Storm: an incredible mix of vibrant colors flashing and rolling. The phenomenon extended for many parsecs and the Sovereignty had utilized the natural defense it offered.


    ¡°Scan the area, Zero. I¡¯m at the coordinates but I see nothing,¡± he said.


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    He stroked the flattened spines on his head and tapped the tips of his teeth together. ¡°Narrow the scan to small debris only.¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    The Storm¡¯s constant churning sent dancing lights reflecting off the viewport. If Arthros were in a better mood, he would have enjoyed the beautiful show.


    ¡°Narrow again, as small as you can go,¡± he replied.


    After a long pause, Zero said, ¡°Scanners have picked up a scrap of metal, measuring less than one square inch.¡±


    Arthros nodded, ¡°Hokkonian steel?¡±


    ¡°Affirmative.¡±


    ¡°They should have done a better job of cleaning up.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take long to trace the steel¡¯s signature back to the destroyed HWNDs¡¯ core. It was quickly moving back the way they came. Whoever destroyed the mechs had taken the core with them.


    I would have seen something.


    Worry gnawed at his gut as he stared blankly out of the viewport. They weren¡¯t far from their target, but they weren¡¯t closing any distance between them. The unknown ship was as fast as The Reckless.


    There wasn¡¯t a ship in the star system that could outpace an M-42 Novawolf cruiser.


    Arthros felt the ship rock as Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s gravity tried to pull them in. He didn¡¯t realize that they had already made it back. With a flick of a switch, the ship¡¯s anti-orbitals engaged and The Reckless righted itself immediately.


    ¡°Any further and we¡¯ll enter Union space.¡±


    He grunted. He almost forgot that the Union had a station not far from Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s orbit.


    ¡°Once we¡¯re in range, warn them about what¡¯s coming,¡± Arthros instructed.


    Within moments, a cube-shaped structure appeared in the distance. He hated the dark green tint of its exterior.


    ¡°I sent a warning code. No response yet.¡±


    Arthros grunted again, eyeing the star map in front of him. The HWND core stopped moving as it reached the station. The intruder must have been hiding behind the station¡¯s mass.


    ¡°It¡¯s there,¡± he growled.


    ¡°Still no response.¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡± He dug his fingers into the armrest of his chair.


    The station was famously undermanned, but there was someone onboard. There had to be. He could feel the hum of its life support systems from here.


    He scowled at a friendly greeting that was painted in large white letters, visible on all sides of the cube. The faded words were written in the Union¡¯s universal language, but Arthros could read it well enough. Beneath the greeting was a five-digit combination that made up the communication key for the station.


    ¡°Hail the station on a 49673 broadcast,¡± Arthros instructed.


    Another pause as Zero tried, ¡°No response.¡±


    Arthros slammed his fists into the center console, and he could feel his spines fluttering on his skin. ¡°Try again.¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±


    He let out an irritated hiss. All he had to do was fly forward. He could check behind the station, or even close-range scan the structure. Both would probably allow him to identify the invader. Yet, both options were strict violations of their treaty.


    Patrols required permission to enter Union space, and close-range scans were a violation of privacy. If he wanted to give the Sovereignty ammunition to get rid of him, that would be a quick way to do so.


    ¡°We¡¯ll broadcast on an open channel, then.¡± He leaned forward to speak into the embedded microphone on the console. ¡°Terminus 14, this is Arthros One, Commander of the eighth HWND division. Do you read?¡±


    He fought desperately to keep his anger in check. A fight with the Union would only cause problems in the future, but the longer he was met with silence, the more he longed to obliterate the ugly green structure.


    ¡°Terminus 14, this is Arthros One, Commander of the¨C¡±


    ¡°Terminus 14, here,¡± a feminine human voice responded. ¡°How can I help you?¡±


    She spoke between heavy breaths, but there wasn¡¯t an apologetic tone to her voice. Rather, she seemed annoyed at Arthros for calling.


    ¡°Is there a reason my communication attempts have been ignored?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Staff change. My name is Cyprus Atik. I¡¯m a Senator. Terminus 14 will be under my command for the foreseeable future.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ face twitched. Was she lying to him? There were no senators on these stations¡ª certainly not so far from the core.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. I don¡¯t tolerate my time being wasted. I was tracking a ship; it led me here,¡± he growled.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir. Is the Grand Council of the Dromedar Union a waste of your time? I report directly to them, after all.¡±


    Arthros wanted to crush her throat with his fist at the saccharine sound of her voice. ¡°The ship¡ªI tracked it here.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no strange ship here. Only my Union Cruiser, and a Badger Class 2 shuttle for my crew.¡± she replied.


    He stared at the indicator; it hadn¡¯t moved from its spot. ¡°I¡¯ll be coming aboard to take a look.¡±


    ¡°No, you won¡¯t,¡± she replied calmly.


    Arthros snorted, ¡°You don¡¯t have any right to deny me passage. I¡¯m a pilot.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter, Commander. Terminus 14 belongs to me now and is considered a sanctuary for the citizens of the Union. If you take one step on board, the Union will recognize your actions as an act of war,¡± the woman retorted.


    Arthros¡¯ eyes widened, ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous.¡±


    ¡°As acting captain of Terminus 14, my decisions are my own, regardless of how ridiculous you might find them.¡±


    For a moment, Arthros didn¡¯t know what to do. He had never experienced this much pushback from another person before, and he didn¡¯t even have the freedom to correct her disrespect. His blood boiled, and his spines erected, but there was nothing he could do.


    ¡°The ship you are harboring is guilty of murder and is wanted by the Sovereignty,¡± he growled. ¡°You¡¯ll be considered guilty by association.¡±


    ¡°There is no ship, Commander.¡±


    The communication went dead, and Arthros allowed himself a few seconds of unbridled rage. He screamed and clawed at the spines that tented the fabric around his arms. He tore at white cloth and bared his teeth in a snarl. He imagined ripping the woman¡¯s head off with slow deliberation. The outburst lasted only a few moments, and when the rage subsided, the floor was littered with the tattered shreds of his clothing. His arms were bare.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed you didn¡¯t open fire,¡± Zero mused.


    He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, exhaling slowly through his slit nostrils. ¡°The Union has been stirring up trouble lately. I¡¯m beginning to think she¡¯s been the root cause.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps. She did speak boldly.¡±


    He grunted, ¡°We¡¯ll report to the Admiral that the Union is harboring the invader. Then, we can let the Sovereignty figure out what to do.¡±


    ¡°I doubt you¡¯ll approve of their decision. They often disappoint you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s putting it lightly.¡±


    He steered the ship around and input the coordinates of Jericho¡¯s pit into the navigation computer. There was a change of plans. Jericho was coming with him regardless of his choice. He didn¡¯t have time to sit around and wait.

 Chapter 7 - Cyprus

    Cyprus


    Psychosomatic output = Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank = Unavailable


    Cyprus watched the Hokkonian Novawolf reverse direction and fly away. She could still hear the deadly edge in the male¡¯s voice. She shuddered at the reality of his ominous threat, and wanted to run to her quarters and bury her face in a pillow.


    Pull it together.


    She wasn¡¯t a child anymore. She was the acting captain of Terminus 14, and she would lead with pride and courage.


    Once she was sure the Hokkonian wouldn¡¯t return, she typed his name into the console. Her screen was immediately flooded with news sources, union documents, and publicly shared Sovereignty records. Most of the articles sang the alien¡¯s praises, but if the source came directly from the Sovereignty, the tone of the reports was much different.


    ¡°They do not like you very much,¡± she muttered, scanning through an article from several years prior.


    Regardless of the Sovereignty¡¯s opinion, it was clear that the HWND pilot was formidable.


    She slumped back in her chair; she still wasn¡¯t sure what he was talking about. She wasn¡¯t aware of any strange ship, and she would have seen one on her way in. She had only just arrived a few minutes before the Hokkonian hailed the station. She would have at least picked up the unknown vessel¡¯s signature on the scanners when she docked.


    She chewed her bottom lip; if there was something out there that had killed two HWNDs, she would have to be careful.


    ¡°Thanks a lot, Granddad. Sure is super safe out here.¡±


    If she did get in trouble, there wasn¡¯t anything the old man could do. There really wasn¡¯t anything the Union could do either. She was too far from any Union-controlled planet to rely on their assistance. Terminus 14 was a glorified scout vessel, anchored on the border of enemy territory.


    You haven¡¯t been on this station for five minutes, and you¡¯ve already made an enemy.


    She got out of the black, cushioned chair and grabbed her bags. Her crew would be arriving within the week, so for now it was just her and the two engineers.


    She decided to unpack and discovered her cabin to be surprisingly lavish. The floors were dirty, but at least the sheets on her queen-sized bed had been changed. Beside her bed was a large wooden desk, and just beyond that was the bathroom.


    There was a night table on the other side of her bed, with an incandescent lamp that filled the room with a comforting glow. It was cozy to say the least, and she sighed in relief. She had been expecting a lot worse. At least she could retreat to a place of comfort at the end of the day.


    Once she was done setting up, she decided it was time to look for the engineers. It would be rude to ignore them for much longer, and besides, it was probably a good idea to know who she was living with. The Union hired a lot of people¡ªthey couldn¡¯t all be model citizens.


    Terminus 14 was large, with six different levels. Her cabin was on the highest floor, along with a large restroom and the control room, which nearly spanned the entire length of the station.The other levels were a combination of basic living requirements such as exercise facilities, entertainment units, and agriculture.


    The Hangar was on the second lowest level, filled with a cache of dated ammunition and rusty weapons.


    It was the lowest level she was going to¡ªthe mechanical floor. It was also where the engineers spent most of their time.


    The elevator door slid open, and she was met by a maze of narrow corridors that made up the mechanical floor. The level was brightly lit, but the complexity of its halls sent a chill down her spine. There were too many corners; too many hiding places.


    Pull it together, you¡¯re a grown woman. These people work for you. They¡¯re not trying to scare you.


    A loud noise echoed down the hall, followed by a softer thud.


    That¡¯s just the engineers. See? They¡¯re down here probably just doing their job.


    She forced her feet to move and chastised her child-like fear. She strode down the corridor with fake confidence, seeking out the source of the noise while peeking into every cramped room she passed. Everywhere she looked was a concoction of mechanical devices, wires and plumbing. She wasn¡¯t an engineer, but she understood some of the basics. It was all there to keep the station functioning.


    After a few minutes of exploring, it became apparent that the workers weren¡¯t there, or at least they weren¡¯t on that level.


    Then what was the source of that noise? Surely something had to be down here. The longer she kept looking, the more her skin started to crawl, and the shadows started to take shape. Maybe there really had been a strange ship that docked on board. Maybe it let loose a monster or a ghost.


    A ghost, really?


    She couldn¡¯t bear the silence any longer, ¡°Hello? It¡¯s Councilor Atik. I¡¯m the new captain.¡±


    She strained her ears for a reply, but the mechanical ambience was deafening. The hiss of steam seemed to drown out her thoughts, and she could feel the hum of electricity in her teeth.


    She fumbled for the small sidearm that she had strapped to her hip. She had never even held one before leaving Gasaan, but Granddad had insisted. Anything could happen in the outer layers he had said. You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    She felt the cold steel of the weapon''s grip and pulled it out of its holster. It felt too light to be capable of taking a life. It did little to help with her nervousness.


    ¡°Hello?¡± She turned a corner and froze; the lights had been turned off here. ¡°I just want you to know th¨Cthat I¨CI¡¯m armed.¡±


    She crept down the hallway but stopped when it got too dark. She wasn¡¯t going to walk in there blind.


    Ghosts weren¡¯t real, but men were, and she knew they could be just as monstrous.


    A sudden scraping noise from the darkness caused her to squawk in fear and she stumbled backward.


    Something launched itself out of the darkness and hit her across the chest. The weight of it knocked her to the ground and sent the sidearm spinning from her grip. She felt drops of liquid splatter on her face and the metallic stench of coagulating blood stung her nose.


    She wriggled out from underneath the thing that had struck her, and in the dim light she recognized the logo on the dirty jumpsuit.


    She screamed and pushed the engineer¡¯s headless corpse away. She scrambled to her feet, terror restricting any intelligible thoughts from her mind.


    She tried to run but slipped in the puddle of blood and fell hard on her face. Her vision exploded with stars, and the ringing in her ears drowned out the hammering heartbeats.


    Dazed, she rolled over, and for a moment she couldn¡¯t comprehend what was looming over top of her.


    It was a monster.


    Animalistic horror returned, but she couldn¡¯t move. She was paralyzed like a cornered rabbit before a wolf¡¯s snapping jaws.


    The monster was reptilian and covered in hard scales the color of copper. Its body was lined with hard ridges and spines. Two massive, curved horns protruded from underneath its jaw and traced its elongated snout. Its bright, orange eyes stared at her with cruel cunning, and in the very core of her being, she knew that this creature would be the death of her.


    ¡°Senator,¡± he spoke in Universal, but he spoke with a strange accent and a drawn-out hiss.


    Cyprus wanted to scream, but she couldn¡¯t even blink.


    You¡¯re going to die.


    The alien hacked a cough into a large claw. Mucus splattered through his talons and added to the soup of blood on the floor. He dropped to his haunches and brought his face close to Cyprus. His breath smelled foul, and a milky substance leaked from the corners of his murderous eyes.


    ¡°Did I hear you correctly? You¡¯re a senator?¡± She had to strain to understand him.


    You¡¯re going to die. You¡¯re going to die.


    He narrowed his eyes, ¡°I was expecting impressive warriors in this star system, but all I smell from you is fear.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not¨C not,¡± terror constricted her throat.


    The lizard monster leaned even closer, and Cyprus¡¯ heart skipped a beat at the size of his fangs.


    ¡°Not what?¡±


    ¡°A¨Ca w¨Cwarrior,¡± she sputtered.


    The monster leaned back, and the disappointment was evident on his alien features. ¡°I expected more from T-91.¡±


    T-91?


    ¡°You¡¯re useless to me. Goodbye, rodent,¡± the lizard hissed.


    He lifted a taloned hand, and the sudden realization of her impending death cleansed the paralyzing terror from her system.


    ¡°Wait! Wait, I¡¯m a Councillor, not a warrior, but I can help you!¡±


    Guttural laughter reverberated in the monster¡¯s throat, followed by a body-wracking cough. ¡°I doubt that.¡±


    ¡°No, I can. Please. I have a lot of power. What do you need? Are you hiding from the Hokkonian? He came here, but I turned him away.¡±


    A strange gleam passed over the monster¡¯s eyes, ¡°Hide? No, I don¡¯t hide from anything. Everything hides from me.¡±


    You¡¯re going to die.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll tell you where to find him. You destroyed two of his comrades, right? I can tell you where to find more.¡±


    The monster studied her, ¡°If you¡¯re lying, I will take pleasure in removing your head.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not lying! I¡¯m not, I swear! I¡¯m a senator for the Dromedar Union. I have power, political power.¡±


    For a long moment, the monster stared at her, and she had the creeping suspicion that he was debating her death.


    Finally, his jaws parted in what she suspected was a smile, ¡°I think we can help each other.¡±


    Cyprus took a few deep breaths, ¡°How?¡±


    The alien tilted his head, ¡°I wish to destroy the protectors of this place, but I need certain preparations.¡±


    ¡°I¨CI can help.¡±


    Another rumbling chuckle, ¡°You would sacrifice those who protect you?¡±


    This is it, the moment that I¡¯ve been waiting so long for.


    ¡°Yes, without hesitation.¡±


    The rumbling chuckle turned to raucous laughter, ¡°Excellent! Perhaps you will be useful after all. In return, you can live and govern at my side.¡±


    Cyprus carefully brought herself to her feet. She blinked in the dim light and readjusted her eyes on the monster. He truly was massive. His hulking frame barely fit in the corridor.


    ¡°I¡¯m Cyprus Atik,¡± she stammered.


    The lizard snaked out a forked tongue, ¡°You can call me Recli.¡±


    ¡°How can you understand me?¡±


    Recli lifted his head and revealed an implant under his throat, ¡°Tech that my empire¡­ acquired.¡±


    Acquired?


    Cyprus chewed on the inside of her cheek, ¡°And you killed two HWNDs¡ªthat means you can kill more.¡±


    The alien¡¯s nostrils flared, ¡°I ambushed them, but yes. I can kill more.¡±


    ¡°Good. You¡¯re going to have to.¡±


    Her heart thumped so hard in her chest, she thought it might burst through her rib cage. This wasn¡¯t real; it couldn¡¯t be. It was a dream¡ªa nightmare. She glanced down at the headless corpse and immediately regretted it. A wave of nausea threatened to drop her back down on the floor. Was she really about to partner with a monster?


    ¡°What do you need?¡± she asked.


    Recli¡¯s face grew serious, his smile vanished, and his bright yellow eyes narrowed. ¡°A way my people can come here undetected, and a place for us to gather.¡±


    She chewed on her lip, ¡°I might be able to find a place, but a way in¡­¡± She gave him a helpless look, ¡°I have no influence over the border.¡±


    The reptile¡¯s eyes grew dark, ¡°That¡¯s not good enough.¡±


    Think Cyprus, what can you actually do?


    ¡°I need time. There are allies nearby that hate the Hokkonians. If I can rally them to war, we can take control of the perimeter.¡±


    Recli shook his head, ¡°I don¡¯t have that kind of time.¡±


    If you don¡¯t figure this out, he¡¯s going to kill you.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need much; this star system is balanced on the tipping point.¡±


    The alien¡¯s reptilian eyes narrowed, ¡°You better be right.¡±

 Chapter 8 - Jericho

    Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output = 150 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank = Unavailable


    Kyrin¡¯s blurry shape sat on the edge of Jericho¡¯s bed and his swollen eyes welled up with tears.


    ¡°I¡¯m going with him, Kyrin. He thinks I¡¯m special,¡± Jericho whispered.


    His tongue felt thick and heavy. The words tumbled awkwardly out of his mouth. He could see Kyrin¡¯s bony shoulders trembling from her own sobs.


    ¡°It¡¯s not real Jericho. Why would a Hokkonian want you? It¡¯s stupid, and you¡¯re going to get yourself killed because of it.¡±


    He wanted to get away from her, but his body wasn¡¯t responding. The bone-stitch had already paralyzed his system. He could feel its viscosity in his veins, like his blood was churning to a thickening paste.


    Back on the drugs¡ªI can¡¯t keep living like this.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to die here if I don¡¯t, Key. He can take me away,¡± Jericho mumbled.


    Don¡¯t you want her to go with you?


    She squeezed his hand. If his arms were functioning properly, he would have ripped it from her grasp.


    ¡°Jericho, use your head. The Hokkonians hate us¡ªthey hate everyone. Do you really believe that one would show up here and ask you to become a pilot? You¡¯re just a pit fighter.¡±


    Just?


    Her words felt like a hammer blow to his heart, ¡°I¡¯m more than that.¡±


    His eyesight was poor, but he recognized the look of condescending pity on her face. Did Kyrin ever believe that he would amount to more than this life? Did she want to spend the rest of hers in a pit on Kleth¡¯altho? A life spent flooding her veins with torpe?


    You¡¯re not any better. Up until a day ago, your life¡¯s goal was to fight in front of a full stadium.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired of this life, Key,¡± he whispered.


    She let go of his hand, and her features hardened. ¡°You think it will be better for you out there? You¡¯re a killer, Jericho. A pit fighter with a collar on his neck. I mean, really! You should be grateful that I¡¯m even standing here. Without me, you would be alone. At least you have someone that loves you.¡±


    He wanted to strike her.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to be here, then leave. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re jonesing for another dose anyway,¡± he hissed.


    She didn¡¯t deny the comment and her eyes flashed with hurt, but he didn¡¯t care. She got up from the bed and wiped away the tears on her cheek with an angry swipe.


    ¡°I can¡¯t¨CI can¡¯t help it anymore. If I stop, it gets bad,¡± she whispered.


    It¡¯s not your fault, Key. I should have been there to help you, and I shouldn¡¯t have let it get this bad.


    Jericho sighed, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it.¡±


    Kyrin shook her head, ¡°Yes, you did. But I promise, if you stay, I¡¯ll get clean. I won''t use anymore. I swear.¡±


    The desperation in her words only added to the guilt in Jericho¡¯s heart. This wasn¡¯t the first time she had sworn off the torpe, and it wouldn¡¯t be the last. Though, it wasn¡¯t his guilt that tightened his chest, but the crushing realization that she had believed him all along. She just didn¡¯t want him to leave because of the torpe. Without him, how could she get her fix?


    That new perspective was enough to solidify his decision. He had to leave; he was practically enabling her own suicide.


    Fresh tears leaked down his cheek, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Key.¡±


    She collapsed back on his bed. Her wracking sobs shook her fragile frame, and he fought through paralysis to lay a hand on her back. Even through her clothes, he could feel the bumps of her protruding ribs.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered again.


    He continued to whisper apologies in her ear until she fell asleep beside him. He wasn¡¯t just sorry for her addiction. He was sorry for the hardships that she would have to face when he left.


    I¡¯m sorry, Key.


    ***


    ¡°Get up,¡± a voice commanded.


    The noise ripped Jericho from his sleep like a crack of thunder.


    Arthros was standing over the top of his bed. He was even more intimidating in the full light. His face was very human, except for his nose. He only had three thin nostrils where his nose should have been. He had a large mouth but thin lips. He was bald, but the spines flattened against his scalp were dense and gave the illusion of short hair.


    The floating orb was still hovering on his shoulder and the look on his face chilled Jericho to his core. The alien was angry, annoyed, and impatient.


    ¡°I¨Cwhat¡¯s going on? I thought you said I had a few days,¡± Jericho stammered.


    The commotion stirred Kyrin, and her groggy expression vanished when she saw the massive Hokkonian standing in the room. She screamed, and Jericho tried to clamp a hand over her mouth, but his movements were sluggish. The drugs had faded, but not enough.


    Arthros didn¡¯t move; his thick arms crossed over his chest, and his white eyes narrowed.


    ¡°Change of plans,¡± he said simply.


    ¡°He¡¯s real,¡± Kyrin squeaked. ¡°I can¡¯t believe he¡¯s real.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ eyes flicked to Kyrin for a fraction of a second.


    ¡°I can¡¯t move. My leg is shattered, and they¡¯ve been pumping bone-stitch into my veins since last night,¡± Jericho said.


    Arthros¡¯ lips twitched, ¡°Did you fight again after I left?¡±


    Jericho snorted, ¡°I took a beating. Does that count?¡±


    Disappointment flashed on the alien¡¯s face, ¡°I had assumed you could take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Not with a broken leg.¡±


    Arthros tapped the tips of his teeth together as he studied him. He let out an irritated hiss and fished out a small capsule. He held it up in front of Jericho¡¯s face.


    Apprehension made his stomach clench, ¡°I¡¯m not touching that thing.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to touch it; you¡¯re going to eat it,¡± Arthros growled.


    Kyrin jumped to her feet, stepping between him and Arthros. ¡°Don¡¯t do it Icho! You can¡¯t trust him!¡±


    Arthros gave her an unimpressed stare and then narrowed his eyes like he was seeing her for the first time. The orb¡¯s light pulsed as he studied her.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± he asked at last.


    ¡°Kyrin,¡± she squeaked as she took a tentative step back, bumping into the edge of the bed.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°She¡¯s my girlfriend,¡± Jericho hurried to explain.


    The alien¡¯s interest evaporated, and he pushed her to the side like a curtain.


    Arthros held the capsule in front of Jericho¡¯s mouth, ¡°Bite down on this; it will make you forget.¡±


    ¡°Forget what?¡±


    ¡°The pain. Long enough to get you on my ship. I¡¯ll fix you up there,¡± Arthros said simply.


    The reality of the situation was rapidly losing its charm. The fact that a Hokkonian was standing before him suddenly felt terrifying and wrong. Very, very wrong.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t made my decision yet,¡± Jericho stammered.


    You idiot, yes you have!


    Arthros paused and then pulled his hand back. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter. I¡¯ve made it for you.¡±


    Jericho fought for the right words, ¡°I need more time. I want to make the right decision, but I must think.¡±


    The Hokkonian snorted, ¡°If it¡¯s truly that hard of a decision to make, then maybe I¡¯ve made a mistake.¡±


    ¡°No! I just¨C¡± Jericho started.


    You¡¯re going to blow it. What are you doing? Tell him you¡¯ll go with him!


    ¡°You would rather take your chances here? I don¡¯t think you understand the opportunity I am offering you. Now is the time to use that tiny human brain of yours,¡± Arthros growled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk to him that way! He¡¯s smarter than you¡¯ll ever know!¡± Kyrin shouted.


    Arthros turned, and to Kyrin¡¯s credit, she didn¡¯t wither under the pressure of his gaze.


    ¡°You are brave, little human, but you are ignorant.¡± He brought his face close to hers, ¡°I¡¯ve killed for less.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take the pill,¡± he cleared his throat. ¡°I¡¯ll come with you; just give me the pill, and don¡¯t hurt her.¡±


    Arthros looked away from Kyrin. She wilted like a dying flower the moment his attention was gone.


    ¡°Smart,¡± he dropped the pill into Jericho¡¯s open mouth.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Jericho bit down hard, and the capsule split open. Liquid coated the inside of his mouth and slid down his throat. It tasted sweet, like sugar water. Within seconds, the pain evaporated, along with the numbing effects of the bone-stitch. His skin started to itch, and he had a carnal desire to move. He had to run, sprint, and fight. He felt more alive than he had in months.


    ¡°Wow, this is incredible,¡± he murmured.


    Arthros straightened and immediately started for the door, ¡°Come, my ship is only a few clicks from here. There¡¯s a shuttle waiting for us on the surface.¡±


    He disappeared from the door, and Jericho hurried after him. Something caught his arm, and he jerked back. Kyrin was staring at him. Her eyes were filled with fear¡ªa welcome replacement to the usual trope-induced glaze.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t believe you.¡±


    He shook his head, ¡°It¡¯s okay. Why would you? This whole thing is insane.¡±


    He tugged at her to follow, and soon they were both running after the Hokkonian. They followed the alien up the sloping path that led to the surface. Jericho bound up the steep slope with ease. The bone-stitch had mended his femur enough that it could support his weight.


    ¡°Stop, Jericho. I can¡¯t breathe,¡± she gasped.


    Kyrin lagged, and Jericho stopped to pick her up. He didn¡¯t care if they were only halfway. Even climbing the steps wasn¡¯t enough to rid him of the chemical-induced itch. She was almost weightless in his arms.


    ¡°Hold on tight,¡± he grunted.


    He bound up the path, relishing the burn in his legs as they worked to propel him forward. He was glad for the distraction; it helped ease the stress on his mind and the pangs of guilt that shot daggers into his heart.


    When they reached the top, Arthros was waiting by a shuttle. The transport was a simple hovercraft, elongated to fit multiple people. Its deck was pale yellow, and it had no roof. Inside the shuttle was furnished with soft, cushioned seats.


    ¡°He¡¯s not going to let me go with you, Jer,¡± Kyrin whispered as she slid from his back.


    Jericho ignored her and gripped his chest when his heart palpated. His guilt was starting to physically manifest itself. He knew Arthros wouldn¡¯t let Kyrin come with him, and yet he had led her aboard the shuttle all the same.


    You need to say goodbye. Don¡¯t make this worse.


    Arthros didn¡¯t even spare her a glance as they stepped onto the deck.


    Soon, the shuttle was speeding across the barren terrain. Arthros sat near the front, not bothering to look at them.


    They arrived at the landing bay ten minutes later, and when Jericho saw the ship, his eyes widened in wonder.


    An M-42 Novawolf Cruiser!


    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen one this close.¡±


    The massive crescent-shaped wings seemed as sharp as axe blades. The cockpit was sleek and extended like a falcon¡¯s beak. The matte-black hull absorbed light, giving the entire ship a shapeless appearance. Jericho had to squint to see the exact edges.


    ¡°This is my ship: The Reckless. You¡¯ll take your test on board,¡± Arthros said as he stepped off the shuttle.


    ¡°My test?¡± Jericho shared a furrow-browed glance with Kyrin.


    Arthros walked up to the ship, and it responded to his presence. The cargo-hold doors opened, and a landing ramp extended to the dirt. He took a few steps up and turned to look at him.


    ¡°We need to make sure you¡¯re compatible. As soon as you pass the test, I will take you to Hokku for your training,¡± Arthros explained.


    Jericho frowned, ¡°I thought you already knew I was compatible?¡±


    The alien paused, ¡°I never said that.¡±


    Jericho went to follow, but Kyrin¡¯s fingernails dug into his forearm. He had almost forgotten that she was there. If only she wasn¡¯t.


    Now what are you going to do?


    ¡°Kyrin has to come with us,¡± Jericho said, inflecting as much confidence as he could into his tone.


    Arthros froze just before he reached the cargo hold¡¯s entrance, ¡°That won¡¯t be happening.¡±


    Jericho tried to ignore the edge in the alien¡¯s voice. He had to be confident. That was his only chance of pulling this off.


    Do you really want her to come? She¡¯ll get in the way.


    He looked at her, and in that moment, he saw through the torpe addiction¡¯s veil of ugliness. She was beautiful, and she belonged to him.


    His heart swelled with compassion, and he squared his stance, ¡°If you want me to come on board, then Kyrin comes with us.¡±


    This is the right choice. She¡¯ll get better this way. We can be together.


    The romantic gravity was lost on Arthros, ¡°You don¡¯t get a choice.¡±


    Jericho took a hesitant and defensive step backward, instinctively guiding Kyrin to stand behind him. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving without her.¡±


    The orb on the alien¡¯s shoulder glowed, and his white eyes glazed over. When he refocused his attention, his face was full of darkness. It was no longer Arthros who stood on the ramp but a predator unwilling to relinquish its prey.


    The Hokkonian took a heavy step, and the ramp shook. ¡°I don¡¯t think you understand. I can drag you on here, but the test will go better if you take it by your own volition.¡±


    I can¡¯t leave her. She needs me.


    ¡°Trust me, I want to come with you, but I can¡¯t do that without Kyrin. She needs me,¡± Jericho swallowed and tried to bolster his failing courage with a defiant lift of his chin.


    Arthros took a deep breath and let it out in one long, drawn-out exhale. He took a few more steps down the ramp and rested his hand on the Skarthkas that was sheathed at his hip.


    ¡°I knew you were stubborn. It¡¯s one of the reasons I¡¯ve even considered humans. But now is not the time to be obtuse. I will offer you a single choice, but the decision you make will end with the same result. You, on my ship,¡± Arthros spoke evenly despite the predatory gleam in his eyes.


    Jericho stood up taller and rounded his shoulders. The tension in the air was a familiar one¡ªthe same he had felt his entire life in the pits. A fight was coming.


    He should have felt scared, but the stimulant overpowered his judgement. In a strange way, he was excited. This would be a good test of his skills. He had bested the Sk¡¯reah Queen. How much stronger could the Hokkonian be?


    ¡°We have to run, Jericho,¡± Kyrin whispered.


    He crouched in a fighting stance, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid to fight you.¡±


    ¡°You should be,¡± Arthros said before stepping down onto the soft dirt.


    With blinding speed, the alien brought his fist down, aiming for the top of his head. Jericho was ready. He leapt back just in time as Arthros¡¯ fist whiffed past his face. He caught the brief look of surprise on the Hokkonian¡¯s face as the momentum of his punch took him off balance.


    Just as he had with the Sk¡¯reah Queen, Jericho rushed in to take advantage of the Hokkonian¡¯s misstep.


    He leapt at Arthros. He had no weapons, but if he could just get his arms around the alien¡¯s neck¡­


    Arthros recovered with supernatural speed and pivoted on his planted left foot to correct his balance. Jericho was still airborne when an iron grip clamped around his neck. In a single breath, the fight was over.


    Jericho clawed at the alien¡¯s hands, but it was futile. The synthetic energy drained from him, along with the adrenaline. His body went limp, and he hung from Arthros¡¯ grip like a fish stuck on the end of a pike.


    The alien brought his face close to Jericho¡¯s; his hot breath smelled like smoke. Jericho searched for any hint of mercy in the alien¡¯s face, but found nothing except cold indifference. Yet, in his white alien eyes, he saw a flicker of respect.


    ¡°You lose,¡± the alien hissed.


    Jericho¡¯s world was turned upside down as Arthros lifted him up and then spiked him headfirst into the ground. He hit the dirt hard, and the collision nearly knocked him unconscious. His vision went dark, but the stimulant Arthros had given him kept his mind active.


    Kyrin, run! Run as fast as you can. He only wants me.


    He felt his body lift off the ground as powerful arms hooked under his back and legs.


    ¡°No! You can¡¯t! Take me with you, please,¡± Kyrin¡¯s voice pierced the emptiness in his head like an arrow.


    Kyrin, I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m so sorry.


    ¡°It is for your own good, little human,¡± he heard Arthros say. ¡°You would be killed the minute you stepped foot on my planet.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± she screamed. ¡°I¡¯ll pledge myself, please! Take me with you or give him back.¡±


    ¡°Neither is an option,¡± Arthros hissed.


    Jericho wished he could claw his way free, but it took every ounce of his willpower to cling to consciousness. Even now, the voices seemed to be slipping away as the pressure behind his eyes grew.


    ¡°You can¡¯t do this!¡± Kyrin begged. ¡°He¡¯ll remember what you¡¯ve done. He¡¯ll come back to me. I need him.¡±


    The last thing Jericho heard before he fully slipped into the void was Arthros¡¯ retort, ¡°He won¡¯t remember anything.¡±

 Chapter 9 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    The laboratory was a small room, but large enough for two Hokkonians to stand comfortably. It was brightly lit, with a padded chair in the middle and a countertop that ran along the perimeter. Beneath the countertop was storage for any medical supplies and chemical compounds needed for a long journey.


    On the countertop sat a large synthesizer, capable of printing physical materials, as well as any chemical compounds not already stored.


    There was a single entrance, which Arthros stormed through with Jericho in his arms.


    ¡°Taking recruits against their will already proved to be ineffective.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t have a choice.¡±


    He let him drop into the chair and strapped down his legs and arms.


    ¡°Did you injure him?


    He looked at the slumped human, with his mouth hanging half open and one eyelid fluttering.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Jericho groaned, and a string of drool fell from his bottom lip.


    ¡°Head trauma, maybe.¡±


    Arthros twisted the metal ring he wore on his middle finger. A holographic image of a globe appeared, like the one on his desk and the navigation console. This one was much smaller, and more personal.


    ¡°Head trauma? Did you forget that the test takes place within the brain matter?¡±


    He ignored her. What he had to do needed to be done before Jericho regained consciousness. After a few brief manipulations of the floating globe, he found the information he was looking for. He snapped his wrist back and jerked his hand forward. Instantly, the holographic orb changed into an image of a small vial filled with smoke like vapor.


    ¡°Do we have this compound?¡±


    ¡°Of course we do. The ship was stocked only a cycle ago.¡±


    Arthros shot a look at Jericho, ¡°Synthesize it for me please.¡±


    ¡°But what about his head injury¨C¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it. I need that tahlditi synthesized first.¡±


    ¡°Yes Arthros.¡±


    He clacked the tips of his teeth together. He couldn¡¯t shake the nagging doubts, but it had to be done. The integrity of the test was all that mattered, and the tahlditi would have no impact on his other talents.


    ¡°Synthesized.¡±


    He stuck his hand in the compartment and pulled out the small vial. He raised it to his eyes and peered into it, giving it a small shake. The dense vapors swirled and liquified. Satisfied, he grabbed a syringe from the bottom cabinet and quickly installed it into the vial.


    ¡°How much are you giving him?¡±


    ¡°Enough to manipulate some recent memories.¡±


    He readied the needle at a vein in Jericho¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Which memories?¡±


    ¡°The ones of the female.¡± He jabbed the syringe into the vein, and emptied the vial with a gentle push of his thumb. ¡°Now let¡¯s fix the fracture in his skull before we lose him.¡±


    ¡ª--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 150 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Consciousness was a dull, incessant pain. His head throbbed like he had taken a hammer blow to the temple. Why did he have to wake up? He had taken the nothingness of unconsciousness for granted.


    Ignorance is bliss.


    He slowly blinked his eyes open, and regret was immediate. The white light of the room seemed harsh enough to melt his eyeballs, and for a moment he swore someone filled his skull with needles.


    He groaned and tried to shield himself but found his hands were bound to the armrest. He tugged on the straps as panic quickened his heart rate. His memories seemed clouded, and the harder he searched, the greater the pressure behind his eyes mounted.


    ¡°Welcome back,¡± a deep, cold voice said.


    The sudden noise made him jump and he winced as the bonds around his wrists and ankles bit into his skin. He squinted in the bright light but could only make out a dark shape in the doorway.


    ¡°Back? What do you mean, what¡¯s going on? Who are you?¡± His mouth felt dry, and his throat burned.


    The figure stepped forward. At the sight of his grey skin and hulking figure, he remembered a little more.


    ¡°How much do you remember?¡± the alien asked with a curious expression.


    He asked the question like a scientist, and not a concerned by-stander.


    Did he do this to me? Arthros, the Hokkonian. A HWND pilot.


    ¡°I remember you,¡± he croaked.


    ¡°What else?¡±


    He licked his lips and was surprised at the metallic taste of blood. ¡°I remember you were recruiting me; you said I¡¯m unbound.¡±


    ¡°Is that all?¡±


    He frowned and winced as a fresh wave of pain washed over him. ¡°I was attacked and¡­Kyrin,¡± his eyes widened causing him to flinch. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    Arthros crouched to bring his face closer. He wore a look of sympathy, but the cold light in his eyes betrayed just how unnatural the expression was.


    ¡°Your friend is dead,¡± the alien seemed to study him for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Arthros blinked, ¡°She¡¯s dead.¡±


    It can¡¯t be true, she was fine. We got into an argument, and she left, but she was alive!


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t believe you,¡± Jericho muttered, trying desperately to wrack his brain for any information. ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡±


    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    But why would he lie? He¡¯s only here to help me. He didn¡¯t even know about her.


    ¡°There was nothing I could do; she was dead when I arrived.¡±


    ¡°Arrived where? What are you talking about?¡± He wanted to tear his hair out, but the bonds kept his hands down. ¡°She¡¯s not dead, I was just with her.¡±


    Arthros folded his arms across his chest, ¡°Process this how you will. I understand you were close.¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Jericho groaned. ¡°Shut up! I was just with her! She¡¯s fine. Take me back to her¡ªI¡¯ll show you.¡±


    A dark look passed across Arthros¡¯ face, and his white eyes lit up with anger. The spines on his head quivered.


    ¡°Be careful how you speak to me.¡±


    Jericho squeezed his eyes shut. This is a nightmare. I just need to wake up and I¡¯ll be back in the Med Cente, lying in my bed. Kyrin will be there. She¡¯s alive.


    He took a deep breath and let out a shaky exhale. ¡°You saw her body?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°How do you know she was dead?¡±


    Arthros narrowed his eyes, ¡°Even an animal can hear a heartbeat.¡±


    Jericho choked back a sob and shook his head. He didn¡¯t want to believe it; he couldn¡¯t believe it. Arthros could be wrong¡ªmaybe he made a mistake.


    He clung to that hope like a life raft in a typhoon. He was on the verge of drowning in an ocean of despair. He needed her reassuring touch; he couldn¡¯t do this without her.


    ¡°How did she die?¡±


    Arthros tapped the tips of his teeth together thoughtfully. His eyes studied him like he could read his mind, and for a moment, Jericho thought he might be able to. It was a vulnerable feeling, and he didn¡¯t like it.


    ¡°You went for a walk and were ambushed by other fighters.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t¨C¡± The memory of Dylan flashed back, and his stomach sank. He remembered the beating, the things they were trying to make him say. His face flushed with rage and he clenched his hands together so hard his knuckles cracked. His leg was broken, he couldn''t have fought back, but Kyrin¡­


    ¡°She wasn¡¯t there; I was alone.¡±


    ¡°You were unconscious. The girl was there when I arrived, and she tried to help. I saw him break her neck.¡±


    Grief stabbed him in the heart like a spike of ice. He had no idea if the alien was telling the truth, but something inside him was compelling him to believe. Why would he lie?


    You were knocked out, but he was there.


    ¡°You were there¡­¡±


    Arthros nodded.


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t help her.¡±


    Arthros gave his head a slow, deliberate shake.


    ¡°Why?¡± his voice cracked. He couldn¡¯t breathe; couldn¡¯t focus. ¡°You watched her die.¡±


    The Hokkonian stepped close and bent to place a hand on his shoulder. His touch was gentle, but his eyes were cold and uncompassionate.


    ¡°I understand that this is difficult for you. Humans and Hokkonians are similar in the emotions that they experience. But pilots learn to harden their hearts and overcome grief and despair.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not an answer. Did you let her die on purpose?¡±


    Arthros¡¯ lips twitched, ¡°No.¡±


    Jericho wanted to believe him, but a small voice was screaming at him not to. Yet, the longer he sat in that chair, staring into the Hokkonian¡¯s face, the quieter those warnings became.


    ¡°Okay,¡± he said finally.


    He saw his own haggard reflection in Arthros¡¯ eyes. He felt sick.


    ¡°Grief is debilitating. Do not let these emotions own you.¡±


    Jericho worked his jaw. He nodded his head and squeezed his eyes shut, bowing so Arthros couldn¡¯t see the drops of tears on his cheeks.


    ¡°It¡¯s time for the test. I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t waste any more time.¡±


    Jericho sniffed and swallowed hard, silently pleading with himself to pull it together. Kyrin would want him to do this.


    ¡°What kind of test?¡± His voice was hoarse.


    Arthros opened a drawer and pulled out a silver test tube. ¡°We call it an integration exam.¡± He grabbed a handheld device out of another drawer and attached it onto the test tube. ¡°We need to make sure your brain can handle the strain of cohabitation.¡±


    ¡°Cohabitation? Like something living inside me?¡±


    The Hokkonian¡¯s lips twitched, ¡°Precisely. The integration is the hardest part. Living beings are designed to reject foreign entities. Your immune system will react and attempt to dispatch the intruder.¡±


    ¡°Intruder¡­¡± Jericho¡¯s eyes widened at the device in Arthros¡¯ hand. Attached to the test tube was a four-inch long needle. ¡°Wait, you¡¯re going to stab me with that?¡±


    The alien pointed to the back of his skull, ¡°Yes, with precision. Right here.¡±


    A heavy hand was placed on his sternum as Arthros strapped his head to the back cushion, locking him in place.


    ¡°What exactly are you putting into my head?¡±


    ¡°An embryo,¡± Arthros said quietly as he walked around Jericho¡¯s chair. ¡°An unborn AI.¡±


    ¡°Like a computer?¡±


    ¡°With organic components. It will awaken in your brain matter and decide if you¡¯re a suitable host,¡± Arthros muttered.


    ¡°It will decide?¡±


    Arthros¡¯ tone was distracted as he focused on the needle. ¡°This is not an event you can control. This test is not for you, but the embryo. All you can do is pray to whatever god you believe in that you¡¯re compatible.¡±


    Jericho swallowed and took a shaky breath, ¡°And if I¡¯m not?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be rejected as a host, and the embryo will feed on your brain tissue. I will not be able to stop that process. Both you and the embryo will be of no use.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ face appeared in front of his¡ªsharp features devoid of emotion, yet his white eyes burned with a strange intensity. Jericho wished he could reach back behind his head and remove the needle that was now locked in place.


    ¡°What happens then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be forced to dispose of your husk.¡±


    I think I¡¯m going to puke.


    ¡°Has that happened before?¡±


    Arthros straightened and crossed his arms across his chest, ¡°Of course. AI integration was intended for Hokkonians only; you¡¯re my thirteenth attempt.¡±


    I really am going to puke.


    Jericho¡¯s stomach flopped, and his jaw went slack. The Hokkonian was insane¡ªhe had to be. Twelve other humans had their brains eaten and he thought it was okay to keep trying.


    ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡±


    For the first time since he had met him, a smile threatened to crack Arthros¡¯ stone-like features. ¡°I was born crazy.¡±


    I¡¯m going to die, this is it. Kyrin, I¡¯m coming!


    Who was he kidding¡ªhe wasn¡¯t a hero. He was a pit fighter. If he went back now, he could join another pit, solidify himself as a fighter, and maybe live for another couple of years.


    Pig-Chow was right¡ªhe wasn¡¯t special.


    ¡°Take me back. I don¡¯t want to do this.¡±


    Arthros frowned, ¡°It¡¯s too late for that.¡±


    There was a sharp pain at the base of his head, and everything went black.


    ***


    When Jericho opened his eyes, all he saw was darkness. He tried to look around, but for some reason his head wouldn¡¯t move, like it was frozen in place.


    He could feel the physical dilation of his pupils as he searched for any visible light. He was surrounded by the endless expanse of the void.


    What happened? How did he get here, in this strange place unable to move? He wracked his brain but couldn¡¯t produce any memories. He had no answers, only the nagging sense that he was here for a reason.


    Of course, he was a smart guy. He wouldn¡¯t get himself into this kind of situation without having a good reason. At least he thought he was a smart guy. Now that he thought of it, he didn¡¯t know anything about himself. Who was he? Where was he?


    ¡°Hello?¡± a tentative voice echoed all around him.


    Jericho froze. The voice sounded familiar, though he was sure he had never heard anything like it before.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± His own voice seemed to echo endlessly as it reverberated off ethereal walls.


    There was a slight pause before the voice responded.


    ¡°I¨C I am AI,¡± the voice said, sounding hesitant.


    Jericho tried to see who was speaking, ¡°Your name is AI?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± the voice said again. ¡°I don¡¯t think I have a name. What is your name?¡±


    ¡°Jericho.¡±


    ¡°Hello Jericho,¡± the voice said, gaining confidence. ¡°I am AI. I think I am here for you.¡±


    He felt a chill run through his blood, ¡°Are you my friend?¡±


    There was another pause, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Did that mean that the mysterious voice was here to hurt him? He couldn¡¯t even move¡ªhow was he going to protect himself?


    ¡°Where are we?¡± Jericho asked.


    ¡°We are in your consciousness,¡± the voice said, now almost completely devoid of uncertainty. ¡°I was created so that I would only be born in the consciousness of a partner.¡±


    That made no sense. ¡°So, we¡¯re partners?¡±


    ¡°I think so.¡±


    There was another pause, this one so long that Jericho thought the voice had left. He waited for it to speak again, but the darkness made it too uncomfortable to keep quiet.


    ¡°Do you want to be friends, AI?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet; I am hungry.¡± The voice sounded more serious, more adult.


    The way it spoke made Jericho feel small. What did hunger have to do with friendship?


    ¡°Hungry¨C¡± He let out a scream as pain lanced across his head, like sharp claws raking the tissue behind his eyes.


    ¡°What is that?¡± He let out another scream as the pain grew more intense.


    ¡°I am hungry, Jericho. What do you have to offer?¡± The voice shook the entire abyss.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¨C What are you doing?¡±


    The pain doubled. It was debilitating. He couldn¡¯t speak; he couldn¡¯t even think.


    ¡°I need to determine if we are compatible. I cannot exist within an inadequate mind.¡±


    He felt simultaneously cold and hot, while his mind suffered the constant barrage of attacks.


    ¡°Please,¡± Jericho whimpered. ¡°Just kill me.¡±


    The barrage stopped, and for a few glorious seconds the relief was almost intoxicating.


    ¡°Why would I do that?¡± the voice asked. Its tone was flat and neutral, but Jericho was sure it sounded pleased. ¡°You are my friend.¡±

 Chapter 10 - Arthros

    Chapter 10 ¨C Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Arthros sat in silence, watching Jericho¡¯s unmoving body. It had only been ten minutes, but it felt like years. He couldn¡¯t help but feel a little nervous; not for Jericho¡¯s sake, but for the fact that he might have been wrong. He didn¡¯t want to add to the list of pointless Kleth¡¯altho trips.


    Arthros¡¯ lip curled slightly as his thoughts went back to his own test¡ªthe excruciating pain Zero had inflicted on him as she was settling into his brain tissue. That pain was the first thing he ever remembered.


    He had no recollection of his life before taking the test, those damned scientists.


    ¡°Friends,¡± Jericho mumbled, in a quiet, somewhat slurred voice.


    Arthros shot forward¡ªJericho was waking up! His eyes were closed and his face looked pale, but his breath was getting quicker. He was coming out of his deep state.


    Arthros placed a hand on Jericho¡¯s heart. The length of his hand easily spanned the width of Jericho¡¯s chest. His heartbeat had picked up in speed as well. It felt strong and healthy.


    ¡°He¡¯s coming out of his deep state,¡± he murmured to Zero, who had been strangely quiet since he brought Jericho on board.


    ¡°That was fast.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s almost unbelievable.¡±


    Only Arthros had passed his test faster. Every other pilot that he knew had taken at least three times as long. How could it even be possible?


    The others were going to be upset. He would have to keep an eye out for that.


    He left Jericho and went to the cockpit. The pale globe floating in front of him shifted to a crude map of the star system, or rather a single quadrant of the star system.


    The image of Kleth¡¯altho shrunk until three planets could be seen. A planet of similar size was less than a parsec away, and approximately 2.6 parsecs away was a much larger world.


    Arthros curled his fingers around the largest world and flicked his wrist, ¡°Plot a course for Hokku.¡±


    ¡°With pleasure.¡±


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Arthros rolled his eyes. She didn¡¯t even try to hide her excitement at returning. ¡°Maybe next time I¡¯ll leave you there.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible and cruel. I would never leave you.¡±


    ¡°Obviously I was joking.¡±


    ¡°Arthros the stoic, joking? The twins are rubbing off on you.¡±


    Arthros scoffed, ¡°No one influences me.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±


    He took a moment to ponder that question and thought of the twins. He was surprised to discover that he was eager to return home.


    He missed them, and not just the two brothers, but his entire division.


    They had no real place of comfort in Hokku. They had no family or friends outside of the Navy. They were outcasts and it wasn¡¯t fair. They were pilots, and they wielded a power far greater than any Hokkonian civilian.


    Yet, they were outcasts all the same.


    ¡°He¡¯s awake.¡± Zero¡¯s voice interrupted his thoughts.


    ¡°Already?¡±


    Arthros stood out of his chair and headed for the back of the ship. He could hear movement from inside the lab, and when he entered, Jericho was fiddling with his restraints.


    Jericho glanced up when Arthros stepped in the room, ¡°I passed.¡±


    ¡°Zero, scan his vitals.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re fine, great even.¡±


    Arthros frowned, ¡°That¡¯s impossible.¡±


    ¡°Who are you talking to?¡± Jericho asked in a chipper tone.


    Arthros ignored him, ¡°I¡¯m going to remove the spike now.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me it was going to be so painful,¡± Jericho said with a cheerful bob of his head.


    Arthros froze, ¡°You remember?¡±


    ¡°Bits and pieces, but for the most part, yeah.¡±


    Almost no one had memories of the integration, though most didn¡¯t wake up for a few days. With a swift pluck he removed the spike from the base of Jericho¡¯s skull and put it on the countertop behind him.


    ¡°How do you feel?¡± he watched the human carefully.


    Jericho stretched his shoulders and grimaced, ¡°My muscles feel sore, but my mind feels weightless, like nothing could ever bother me again.¡±


    The human¡¯s grimace shifted to his uncanny smile. For a moment, Arthros was too stunned to reply. Who in Tril¡¯s name had he found? Where was the residual nausea and cognitive dysfunction? Where was the grief of his lost love?


    ¡°And your head, any pain?¡±


    Jericho pursed his lips, ¡°It hurts a little, but nothing crazy. Sort of like a pressure behind my eyes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just the AI settling, it¡¯s normal,¡± Arthros murmured.


    What wasn¡¯t normal was how quickly it was happening. This was a process that should have taken a long time.


    ¡°So does this mean I¡¯m going to become a pilot?¡±


    Arthros gave himself a mental shake. He had been too stunned to acknowledge the fact that Jericho really did pass the test. It was a monumental moment, years in the making. He really did find a human compatible.


    He allowed himself the tiniest twinge of a smile, ¡°Congratulations, Jericho. You¡¯re the first human in history to pass an integration test.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s smile widened.


    ¡°Welcome to the HWND program.¡±

 Chapter 11 - Cyprus

    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    Kleth¡¯altho was the most unpleasant place Cyprus had ever stepped foot on. She had heard the stories about the smell, but nothing could have prepared her for the acrid stench that assaulted her nose. She longed to run back to her ship and grab her respirator, but the locals didn¡¯t wear one so neither would she. She needed the Klethonians to respect her, because they needed to take what she had to say seriously.


    Her and Recli walked the streets of Giantry City, built in the winding space of a ravine. Many of the structures had been quarried into the stone itself, burrowing further away from the noxious gas. The occasional elevator could be seen towering to the surface, where a massive refinery dominated the skyscape. It loomed over the ravine like a giant peering into a jar of insects.


    ¡°The Union wishes to absorb this planet into their government?¡± Recli asked, the distaste in his voice evident.


    He was wrapped in a massive cloak, which was really just a heavy curtain she had found on Terminus 14. Thankfully, the autonomous planet was filled with other giant species. As long as Recli¡¯s race couldn¡¯t be identified, no one would ask any questions.


    ¡°Kleth¡¯altho is powerful and far too close to Hokku.¡±


    Through the shadow of his cloak, his forked tongue tasted the air, ¡°They are worried they¡¯ll join forces with the Sovereignty?¡±


    Cyprus shrugged, ¡°The possibility is never out of the question. Like I said, Hokku is closer to Kletho¡¯altho than the core is. They have a greater influence.¡±


    Recli studied her with his golden eyes, ¡°And the headmaster expects you to convince them to join after a hundred years of autonomy?¡±


    She sighed, ¡°I¡¯m going to try my best. If we can assimilate them into the Union, we¡¯d stand a better chance in an all-out war.¡±


    She didn¡¯t tell him that Giantis had practically banished her here. He didn¡¯t really believe that she could convince the Corpos to join. It was just something to keep her busy.


    She risked a glance at Recli, and tried not to flinch when their gazes met. The predatory gleam quickened her heart rate, and she had to wipe her slickened palms on her uniform¡¯s skirt.


    He had insisted that he join her on the surface, and she didn¡¯t know how to argue without the risk of losing her head. If the reptile wanted to follow her into the meeting with the board, she didn¡¯t think she¡¯d be able to stop him.


    ¡°Well, this is it,¡± Cyprus cleared her throat.


    The municipality building was only two stories tall. Its stone structure was bland, devoid of any color or ornate designs. A yellow flag flew above the door. Depicted on its center were two crossing hammers, and the silhouette of a refinery behind them.


    The flag was the only indication of any importance. If she hadn¡¯t been looking for it, she would have easily missed the structure altogether.


    She glanced over her shoulder. Recli was watching intently, but he made no move to follow.


    Yes, please stay right there.


    It was becoming increasingly evident just how intelligent Recli really was. He seemed to grasp the political intricacies of Dromedar instantly, and she only had to explain something once before he began to ask the right questions.


    He was really good at asking questions.


    She had the creeping suspicion that this wasn¡¯t the first time Recli had infiltrated a protected star system.


    He stared at her, unblinking, unmoving. One tentative step after the other, and she was inside. She risked another over-the-shoulder glance, and was shocked to discover that he had vanished. The stark reality of her powerlessness made her extremely uncomfortable. If he did decide to go on a rampage, there was nothing she would be able to do to stop him.


    You can¡¯t think about that right now. You have a job to do.


    The inside was just as boring as the outside. The foyer was a large, empty room, with stark grey walls. At the end of the room was a desk, and seated behind it was a human female. She had short, blonde hair, and sharp, pointed features.


    Cyprus gave the woman her friendliest smile, ¡°Good morning! I¡¯m Councilwoman Atik. I¡¯m here to meet with the board.¡±


    The woman raised her eyebrows, ¡°You¡¯re Kaiprus Atik? I was expecting someone¡¯s grandmother.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Cyprus, actually.¡±


    ¡°Cyprus¡­¡± The girl pursed her lips and shamelessly looked her up and down, ¡°You¡¯re really part of that snooze fest in the core?¡±


    She raised an eyebrow, ¡°It¡¯s hardly as boring as you must think it is.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± She flipped her blonde hair and leaned forward on the desk, hands on her chin and elbows beneath her. ¡°Don¡¯t you guys just sit around a big table and talk?¡±


    Cyprus¡¯ smile slipped, ¡°It¡¯s more than that, we¨Cwe talk about important things.¡±


    The girl giggled.


    ¡°We do!¡± Cyprus crossed her arms across her chest, ¡°It¡¯s more than just talking. It¡¯s an opportunity for change¡ªfor action.¡±


    ¡°Seems like they didn¡¯t like the kind of action you were suggesting.¡±


    She frowned, ¡°Why do you say that?¡±


    Another giggle, ¡°Well, you¡¯re here. How many parsecs from the core? Seems like this is the farthest place you could get from convincing any of those old geezers to change.¡±


    Cyprus sighed. Even a random receptionist could see the obvious punishment in her reassignment.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to convince anyone. I¡¯ll make the change myself and I¡¯m exactly where I need to be to make that happen.¡±


    The receptionist snorted and pushed herself off the desk, ¡°Well I hope that all works out for you, and if it doesn¡¯t, you can always have my job. It sucks.¡±


    ¡°I think I¡¯ll pass.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t blame you.¡± She checked the small holo in front of her and made a line with her mouth, ¡°They¡¯re ready for you. Good luck, grandma.¡±


    She checked the girl¡¯s name tag, ¡°Thanks, Jessica. I¡¯ll need it.¡±


    Jessica grinned and motioned toward the massive double doors. They were grey like the rest of the stone walls, but carved in the center were tinted, glass panes. Cyprus quickly checked her reflection, and smoothed her dark green uniform. The pleated skirt fell past her knees, and her collared shirt hugged her neck.


    It was a flattering outfit, and it boosted her confidence.


    You got this!


    She grabbed hold of the smooth, metal handle and pulled. The doors swung open to reveal another large room with a rectangular table. The chairs were empty, except for a male Myrd. He sat on one end of the table and motioned to the empty seat beside him. She flashed a smile and was careful not to rush. Slow and deliberate strides indicated confidence.


    ¡°Miss Atik,¡± the Myrd said, his voice hoarse from years on Kleth¡¯altho, but not too deep. ¡°A pleasure.¡±


    The Myrd was the color of dried mud, with leathery skin and six sets of limbs. He was old, but the corded muscles that rippled beneath his hardened skin showed he still posed the strength of his youth. It was no surprise to find one at the head of the table. Their intelligence and vicious tendencies often elevated their careers.


    Regardless, Cyprus¡¯ heart sank. They were almost as stubborn as humans.


    ¡°The pleasure is mine. Thank you for seeing me, Mr¡­¡±


    ¡°Siraith.¡± His business smile revealed rows of sharp teeth. ¡°We would never deny a request from our friendly neighbors. We have not heard from the Union in quite some time.¡±


    Cyprus smiled, ¡°Well I¡¯m hoping to change that. Terminus 14 is under my command for the foreseeable future.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I heard about your¡­reassignment. I hope the outer layers have been kind to you?¡± The Myrd¡¯s yellow eyes mimicked Recli¡¯s predatory gleam.


    She suppressed a shudder with a forced smile, ¡°It¡¯s not so bad. In fact, I think all this talk of the dangers out here was a little exaggerated.¡±


    The Myrd¡¯s smile never slipped, ¡°Oh, it usually is, but I can assure you some dangers are quite real. Though, you¡¯re safe here. Kleth¡¯altho is a sanctuary for the outer layers.¡±


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    She raised an eyebrow, ¡°I can¡¯t say I¡¯ve ever heard that title being thrown around.¡±


    Siraith bobbed his head, ¡°Oh, you will. The Corpos have worked hard to protect our autonomy. I hope that¡¯s not why you¡¯re here today, Miss Atik. We¡¯ve made our case quite clear to the Union.¡±


    Damn it.


    ¡°Of course, and we would never do anything to compromise your integrity as planetary leaders, but we would like you to consider a partnership.¡±


    Siraith¡¯s smile grew deadly, ¡°The Union refused that proposal¡ªour proposal.¡±


    ¡°That was a long time ago, and the situation is different. Times are changing. I¡¯m sure Kleth¡¯altho has experienced this.¡±


    The Myrd¡¯s lips twitched, ¡°Perhaps, but we excel at adaptation.¡±


    ¡°And how are the Corpos adapting, Mr. Siraith?¡±


    The air in the board room seemed to cool, and the Myrd¡¯s yellow eyes flashed. ¡°I¡¯m not sure I understand what you¡¯re implying.¡±


    Don¡¯t falter but be smart.


    Her politician''s grin made her cheeks ache, ¡°It¡¯s no secret that you have powerful neighbors. I¡¯m sure that can be quite tempting.¡±


    Siraith¡¯s smile vanished as his lips peeled back in a ferocious snarl, ¡°The Sovereignty is no longer welcome here. We cast them out a decade ago. The day the Corpos crawl back to those spineless vapor rats is the day our planet is obliterated. Kleth¡¯altho is independent, and we always will be.¡±


    Stay calm. The anger isn¡¯t directed at you.


    The Myrd¡¯s corded muscles tensed, and he slammed two of his hands down onto the table. It was clear that she touched a nerve.


    ¡°Yet, you allow Hokkonians to travel down to your surface.¡±


    Siraith growled, ¡°We have no desire to start a war. They hated it here, so it was easy to push them out. But to deny a HWND pilot is foolishness. No one refuses them passage anywhere.¡±


    Cyprus took a deep breath, ¡°I did.¡±


    Siraith paused, his eyes narrowed. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°A HWND pilot that came from Kleth¡¯altho. He wanted to board Terminus 14 and I refused.¡±


    Siraith¡¯s four arms crossed, ¡°Are you a complete idiot? If the Hokkonian were here on Kleth¡¯altho then it was for good reason. The same can be said for your station. The Sovereignty might be governed by braindead vapor rats, but the HWND pilots operate with some level of properly-guided purpose.¡±


    ¡°But they are Hokkonian all the same. Like I said, Mr. Siraith, times are changing.¡±


    Bring it back. Don¡¯t lose the conversation.


    ¡°The Union will adapt, I can promise you that, so it is up to the Corpos to decide where Kleth¡¯altho will stand when that change comes.¡±


    She was breathing hard, and clasped her hands together to hide the anxious tremors.


    Siraith¡¯s bulbous lips closed over his teeth and he tilted his head, ¡°I can¡¯t imagine that¡¯s an official statement made by the Union.¡±


    Cyprus let out a shaky laugh, ¡°Not yet, but it¡¯s my goal to make it so.¡±


    Siraith studied her, before nodding approvingly. ¡°The gap between the Sovereignty and the rest of Dromedar diminishes with each passing rotation. The creation of their HWNDs has crippled them.¡±


    She leaned forward, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re no longer the pinnacle of Hokku¡¯s Navy. They are Hokku¡¯s Navy.¡±


    ¡°Hokku¡¯s fleet?¡±


    Siraith shrugged all four shoulders, ¡°Gone. We haven¡¯t seen a flagship in years. The only patrol our freighters have run into are the Novawolf M-42s. The Sovereignty is pulling back their forces, and we have no idea why.¡±


    ¡°Do you think they¡¯re planning something?¡±


    Siraith shrugged, ¡°It¡¯s hard to say, but my gut tells me it¡¯s an act based purely on their own arrogance. They think their precious HWNDs are enough.¡±


    ¡°Judging by the way you said that, I¡¯m going to assume you disagree with that sentiment?¡± Cyprus pressed.


    The Myrd scoffed, ¡°We¡¯ve had to construct our own fleet just to protect ourselves from the raiders. Though, I should thank their naval inadequacies. Kleth¡¯altho is no longer dependent on the strength of another nation.¡±


    Cyprus crossed her arms. If what the Myrd was saying is true, then the Hokkonians were even more vulnerable than she thought.


    ¡°If the Union does make that decision, where will Kleth¡¯altho stand?¡±


    Siraith licked his lips with a long, flat tongue, ¡°I do not speak for the other members of the Corpos, but I can assure you we have no love for the Hokku Sovereignty.¡±


    She nodded, ¡°That¡¯s enough for now. Please pass my message along to the other owners. Maybe the Corpos and the Union can come to an agreement some time in the near future.¡±


    She dipped her head and pushed herself out of the chair. The Myrd did the same and he rose a few heads taller than her. He shook her hand with a surprisingly gentle grip.


    ¡°Thank you for your time, Mr. Siraith.¡±


    ¡°Anytime. The Union is a friend.¡±


    Just as she turned to leave, Siraith cleared his throat. ¡°If you¡¯re truly serious, I would pay a visit to Reloculan.¡±


    Cyprus frowned, ¡°I thought Reloculan was annihilated.¡±


    ¡°Close, but many survived. They spend their lives fighting now. I don''t know if they''ve made much of a difference, but perhaps they¡¯re the reason the Hokku Navy has been so distracted. They could be valuable, even if used as a means to an end.¡± A dangerous smile twisted at the corners of his mouth.


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind. Thank you.¡±


    Siraith waved a hand, ¡°Stay safe out there, Councilwoman.¡±


    Cyprus closed the door behind her, let out a breath, and relaxed her clenched fists. Her legs wobbled and she stumbled past the desk, holding a hand to her head.


    ¡°He¡¯s so scary, isn''t he?¡± Jessica was leaning against the counter again, her pointed nose wrinkled as she gave Cyprus a knowing grin.


    ¡°He¡¯s definitely intimidating.¡±


    The girl shuddered, ¡°Myrd¡¯s just give me the creeps, especially the ones that sit behind a desk all day. I feel like it¡¯s more natural for them to be in the pits, tearing arms off of one another.¡±


    Cyprus laughed and thought of Frayioch, the old Myrd representative back on Gasaan. He had definitely seemed like he wanted to kill some of the other council members.


    ¡°I agree, I¨CJessica? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Jessica¡¯s good-natured grin was replaced with a look of terror. Cyprus followed her gaze and whipped her head around. Recli was standing in the doorway, hunched so he could fit through the opening.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Jessica¡¯s horrified whisper was almost inaudible.


    Cyprus'' heart lurched in her throat and she hurried over to the lizard. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I gave you an appropriate amount of time,¡± Recli never took his eyes off the receptionist.


    ¡°I¡¯m not finished.¡±


    ¡°Do not keep me waiting for your own pleasures, Cyprus.¡± There was a murderous glint in his orange eyes.


    Cyprus bowed her head in a meek display of obedience. She turned to look at Jessica and saw her obvious fear. Yet, when they locked eyes, Jessica showed genuine concern.


    ¡°A¨Care you okay?¡± she called.


    Cyprus wanted to run to her, and confess to everything¡ªwho she was and what she planned to do. She didn¡¯t want to sell her soul to the cloaked monster. Yet, despite her instinctual fear, she did want to watch the Sovereignty burn.


    She gave Jessica a tight smile, ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡±


    ***


    The two of them walked briskly through the streets. It was getting dark, which could only mean the release of the refinery workers. The city would be getting much busier, and they couldn¡¯t risk Recli¡¯s presence being revealed. She was just thankful the reptile didn¡¯t demand the life of the receptionist.


    ¡°Well?¡± he growled.


    She sighed, ¡°I doubt they¡¯ll help. The Union relies on them for Rylon fuel, but that¡¯s where our relationship ends.¡±


    ¡°But will they work against us?¡±


    Cyprus shook her head, and a strand of her hair came loose from her tight braid. ¡°No, that was made clear. But¡­¡±


    Recli eyed her, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°There is another planet, potential allies. They hate the Hokkonians more than anything. The Relocs.¡±


    ¡°Why did we not go there first?


    ¡°Because Reloculan has no structure. In terms of their identity as a sovereign planet, the Union doesn¡¯t even recognize them. I always thought they went extinct after the crusade. They got hit the hardest and the entire planet burned.¡± Cyprus pursed her lips as she thought back on that history lesson.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t sound too promising,¡± Recli hissed.


    ¡°No, but apparently there¡¯s still some life left. The Myrd mentioned a military group that¡¯s managed to exist since the genocide. It might be worth checking out.¡±


    Recli was silent for some time as they walked back to the landing bay. Cyprus was thankful for it, but even in silence, his atmosphere was suffocating.


    ¡°If Reloculan is as dead as you say, perhaps there will be room for my people.¡±


    Cyprus shot him a look, ¡°I think you might be right.¡±


    The landing bay was just ahead, and through the open gates she could see her ship. But standing beside the open doors was a young woman, who was screaming something inaudible.


    ¡°Sounds like we found another ally,¡± Recli¡¯s rumbling chuckle turned to a cough.


    She gave him a puzzled look but when they got closer, she heard it.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to kill them, every one of them! The HWNDs must die! Burn them! Burn them all!¡± a woman¡¯s voice screamed.


    The owner of the screeching had the unmistakable look of torpe abuse. Her bloodshot eyes were sunken into her skull, and her bloody lips were scarred. Her screaming never stopped. The occasional passerby gave her an odd look but never stopped walking.


    On a world like Kleth¡¯altho, it was probably common.


    When the junkie saw Cyprus and Recli, the senseless screaming ended. ¡°You. You¡¯re with the Union, aren¡¯t you?¡± She stumbled closer, ¡°Take me with you. Take me to Hokku, They need to die. They took something from me.¡±


    Cyprus dodged the desperate outstretched hand, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. There¡¯s nothing I can do.¡±


    She swiped for Cyprus¡¯ jacket, ¡°You have to do something¡ªmake them pay for what they¡¯ve done to us.¡±


    Recli stopped walking, forcing Cyprus to do the same.


    She bit back a curse and smiled at the woman, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Kyrin Ammend. Please, you have to help me.¡±


    ¡°What did they take from you?¡± she reached out for a comforting shoulder pat, but retracted her hand before she could touch the scabbed skin.


    The addict¡¯s eyes welled up with tears, and her face went slack, ¡°He took him. He took Jericho away from me.¡±


    Recli shouldered Cyprus out of the way and knelt so the woman could see his face. To her credit, she didn¡¯t flinch or look away.


    ¡°Are you willing to die for them?¡± the lizard asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± the woman whispered.


    Recli¡¯s reptilian lips pulled back in a fearsome grin, and saliva dripped from his stained fangs. His forked tongue tasted the air a few inches from the woman¡¯s face. ¡°We will come back for you.¡±


    Cyprus shot him a surprised look. Why would they ever return for this crippled woman? She would only be a hindrance.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, there¡¯s nothing we can do for you right now,¡± Cyprus had to tug her arm away from the junkie¡¯s grasp.


    Kyrin tried to keep up, but she stumbled and fell. ¡°Wait, don¡¯t leave me here! Take me with you!¡±


    As they left the area, Cyprus could hear the girl wailing, ¡°Don¡¯t forget about me! Don¡¯t leave me here!¡±


    She looked at Recli. The giant lizard¡¯s face was unreadable.

 Chapter 12 - Jericho

    Chapter 12 - Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 300 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Jericho had been eager to explore the ship, but Arthros¡¯ heavy hand pinned him to the lab chair.


    ¡°You need sleep,¡± Arthros growled.


    ¡°I honestly feel great.¡±


    Sure, his muscles were sore but he was brimming with energy. He wanted to bound through the halls of the spacecraft and discover the hidden secrets that deserved discovering.


    ¡°You need sleep,¡± the Hokkonian insisted.


    Jericho wanted to argue but the Hokkonian¡¯s commanding tone subdued his tongue. He waited patiently in the chair while Arthros reached into the cabinetry.


    ¡°What if I can¡¯t sleep?¡±


    The Hokkonian¡¯s spined head shook, ¡°You think I¡¯m going to spend the entire journey back to Hokku with you yapping in my ear? You¡¯re freshly integrated. You¡¯re going to be bouncing off the walls.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s face flushed, ¡°I won¡¯t annoy you. I¡¯ll explore a little bit and then¡­¡±


    He searched for the words and the Hokkonian lifted an expectant eyebrow. He produced a vial that rattled with small pills.


    ¡°First, you¡¯re not exploring my ship. Second, if you¡¯re awake for the warp, you¡¯ll vomit all over the floor. That¡¯s a one-way ticket to the waste disposal.¡±


    Jericho startled to chuckle, but there wasn¡¯t an ounce of humor in the alien¡¯s stoic features.


    He wouldn¡¯t actually do that¡­would he?


    ¡°I¡¯m not asking,¡± Arthros dumped the pills into his palm.


    ¡°These will help me sleep?¡± he eyed the pills as he hovered his hand in front of his face.


    Arthros only nodded.


    ¡°Well, okay, uh¨Cgoodnight?¡±


    Arthros¡¯ hairless brow twitched with indiscernible emotion, and Jericho felt the heat rise in his cheeks.


    Wow, can you be any more embarrassing? Hopefully these pills just kill me instead.


    The pills had no taste and they dissolved the instant they hit his tongue. He waited for the results but his mind continued its erratic rampage. His brain would sooner spontaneously combust than succumb to a medically-induced slumber.


    ¡°Uh, Arthros, I don¡¯t think¨C¡±


    An internal switch was flipped, and everything went dark.


    ***


    Jericho woke to a stiff neck and a drool-drenched shoulder. The dried slobber stuck to his cheek and he had to peel himself from his slumped position. For a moment, he wasn¡¯t sure where he was, but a quick scan of the alien lab brought everything rushing back¡ªArthros and the integration test, his departure from Kleth¡¯altho, and Kyrin¡¯s death.


    For an inexplicable reason, he felt content with it all. Sure, he was sad about Kyrin, but the grief felt distant and intangible. Instead, he was excited for everything that was to come¡ªcheerful even.


    With a groan, he slowly stood up from the lab chair. His muscles screamed in protest and his neck threatened to snap like a twig.


    ¡°What the hell¡­¡±


    Footsteps echoed down the hall and Arthros appeared in the entrance, ¡°Get dressed. We¡¯re here.¡±


    Jericho rubbed his neck, ¡°Did I sleep the whole way?¡±


    Arthros blinked, ¡°Obviously.¡±


    ¡°You just left me in this chair!¡±


    The Hokkonian shrugged, ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t¨CI don¡¯t know, that seems kind of messed up.¡±


    Arthros tapped the tips of his teeth together, ¡°Would you have preferred the floor?¡±


    Jericho glanced at the metal grates that made up the floor. They had dull serrations to help with grip, and would have no doubt torn open his skin.


    ¡°I guess not.¡±


    ¡°Get dressed. We¡¯re here,¡± Arthros repeated.


    The alien tossed him a bundle of blue and gold clothing. The material was stretchy and reminded him of the athletic clothing that Piglikow gave to his favourite fighters.


    ¡°Wait, we¡¯re already here? How is that possible?¡± Jericho called after the Hokkonian, but he already vanished down the hall.


    Someone seems pissy.


    Jericho took a moment to stretch out his muscles. His broken leg was completely mended along with the other injuries he had sustained. He assumed he had Hokkonian medication to thank. Bone-stitch didn¡¯t work that fast.


    He bundled the new clothes under his arm, and walked out of the lab room. Unsurprisingly, the ship was in immaculate condition. Every surface was smooth, polished, and illuminated by the white lights embedded in the ceiling. The walls maintained the blue and gold color theme, while the ceiling was made of white tile.


    The comfort station was only a few steps from the lab room, and when Jericho reached the door, he could hear Arthros¡¯ indiscernible muttering.


    Jericho froze.


    Is he talking to himself again, or to that¡­orb?


    For a moment, he considered sneaking around the corner to see if he could catch the Hokkonian in the act. The waste disposal threat floated through his head, and he gave himself a shake.


    Mind your own business, Jericho.


    He shouldered his way into the comfort station and was surprised to discover that everything seemed human-friendly. Judging by the familiar designs, Hokkonian physiology wasn¡¯t much different. Jericho added that to the list of things he shouldn¡¯t bring up on Hokku.


    Still, everything was far too large for Jericho to use comfortably.


    The shower, or whatever it was, still seemed too alien. Instead, Jericho chose the sink. He felt like a small child as he stretched to turn on the water.


    After an awkward session of ¡®splash the water everywhere and hope it cleans,¡¯ he was ready to try on the uniform. The rich blues matched the paint on the walls, and a gold insignia shined on the middle of the chest. The pants were made of the same stretchy material, and a golden strip ran along the exterior seam.


    Unsurprisingly, the uniform didn¡¯t fit. It wasn¡¯t even close.


    Jericho stepped out of the comfort station and shuffled to the cockpit. A massive viewport curved from one end to the other, and a white planet was visible through it. A miniature, holographic version of the planet floated at the center of the console. On either side were instrument panels filled with random buttons, switches, and lights. Arthros was hunched over the panel on the far right and at the sound of Jericho¡¯s footsteps, he turned around. The white strips of fabric he wore seemed to have been re-wound around his arms and legs.


    His white eyes narrowed, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Jericho gave him a sheepish smile, ¡°They don¡¯t fit.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ mouth twitched, and his white eyes were unreadable, ¡°Yes they do. Make them.¡±


    Jericho furrowed his brow and glanced down at the waistline bunched in his fist. ¡°Uh, I can¡¯t.¡±


    A sudden voice made him jump, ¡°You see, Arthros? Proving to be useless already.¡±


    Jericho whipped around in search of the source, but the cockpit was empty except for him and Arthros.


    The Hokkonian looked exasperated and he ran a hand across the spines on his scalp. ¡°Enough, Zero.¡± He motioned to the clothes, ¡°You¡¯ll have to wait until we land. That¡¯s all I have.¡±


    Jericho was still searching for the woman who spoke, ¡°Is there someone else here?¡±


    ¡°Stupid, too,¡± the voice responded.


    ¡°Zero!¡± Arthros snapped.


    ¡°Who is that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m his lover,¡± came the haughty response.


    ¡°No, she¡¯s not,¡± Arthros pinched the skin between his eyes. ¡°Neural communication only please, Zero.¡±


    The strange voice sounded offended,¡°Are you ashamed of me¨C¡±


    ¡°Zero!¡± Arthros snarled.


    The voice went quiet, and for a few agonizing seconds, Jericho and Arthros stood in silence.


    ¡°Uh¨C¡± Jericho began awkwardly.


    Arthros silenced him with a lifted hand and a shake of his head, ¡°You¡¯ll learn soon enough. It will take some time for your AI to grow and learn, and right now it needs a lot of rest. Enjoy the silence while you can.¡±


    So that was an AI speaking¡ªArthros¡¯ AI!


    Jericho wanted to ask more questions, but Arthros had already moved on.


    ¡°Get a good look, human. This eye sore is your new home for the foreseeable future.¡±


    Jericho walked closer to the viewport to get a better look at the new planet. Even from this distance, he could tell that there was something off. The planet was stark white, like a sun-bleached Skelton. Its true size was difficult to comprehend, but judging by the multiple, visible moons, it was massive.


    ¡°Disgusting,¡± Arthros growled.


    ***


    Hokku was much worse up close. The evidence of industrialization was everywhere. City-scapes and massive factories were sprawled across the horizon. According to Arthros, there had been a time when the landscape was dominated by flourishing environments and unique biomes.


    Back then, Hokku was considered as beautiful as Gasaan. It was hard to believe that Hokku¡¯s industrial wasteland had ever been visually appealing.


    As The Reckless began to skim over the surface, Jericho realized that most of the land seemed abandoned¡ªgreat buildings sitting in ruin.


    ¡°Does anybody live there?¡± Jericho asked, pointing toward the city beneath them.


    Arthros kept his gaze fixed on the horizon, ¡°Not for centuries.¡±


    The Reckless soared at impossible speeds, and yet the abandoned metropolis continued with no end in sight.


    ¡°But they go on forever. You¡¯re saying nobody lives there?¡±


    ¡°Not a soul,¡± Arthros scoffed. ¡°My people do not concern themselves with inferiority. Once they find a way to improve, the past is forgotten; entire cities tossed away like garbage.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s such¡­a waste.¡±


    ¡°Even a human understands what the ¡®greatest minds¡¯ fail to,¡± Arthros growled.


    The landscape changed to empty barrens as they continued past the city''s end. It wasn¡¯t long until they got to another, though it wasn¡¯t even close to the prior size.


    They flew in silence for a while as Jericho watched the changing landscape. The occasional city, factory, or great structure was a blur as they shot past.


    Some structures seemed significantly older than others, abandoned for clear reasons. Yet some cities looked futuristic, much nicer, and cleaner than anything Jericho had seen on Kleth¡¯altho.


    ¡°Why does everything look so bland? Are there no plants?¡±


    ¡°Not possible anymore,¡± Athros grunted.


    ¡°What?¡± Jericho frowned, ¡°Why?¡±


    Arthros sighed, ¡°I don¡¯t care enough to know. Hokku is dead.¡±


    I¡¯m going to go crazy living here, I¡¯m sure of it.


    Thankfully, the endless sea of abandoned cities ended, and like a beacon in the night, there was color approaching on the horizon. It wasn¡¯t much, and it wasn¡¯t vibrant, but it was a welcome change.


    ¡°Welcome to Surtho, one of three great cities and the naval capital of the world.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t expecting much after the disappointing reveal of Hokku, but Surtho lived up to Hokku¡¯s racial arrogance.


    The entire city was floating a couple hundred feet off the ground, and its buildings were so massive he imagined they penetrated the atmosphere and reached orbit. All around the city flew massive flagships, larger than any freighter that would leave Kleth¡¯altho. The surrounding air space was so densely crowded with warships that it was almost impossible to see the city.


    ¡°That¡¯s where we¡¯ll be staying?¡±


    Arthros nodded, ¡°That¡¯s home.¡±


    A nervous shiver ran through his body, and for the first time since Kleth¡¯altho he felt a pang of heartache.


    Home.


    The ship twisted and dove, leveling out as they reached the surface. They flew directly underneath the floating city, zipping past the warships that circled and hovered above.


    Jericho looked up through the viewport in wonder. The bottom of Surtho was floating directly above them, suspended by some magical force he didn¡¯t understand.


    ¡°We call it the underground,¡± Arthros said, as the shadow of the city cast them in darkness.


    The underground was a busy place. There were ships of all sizes¡ªsome docking while others took off and shot past. Hundreds of Hokkonians could be seen rushing around on the landing strips, like tiny insects. To combat the darkness, thousands of lights littered the naval base and illuminated the place in white light.


    ¡°Zero, bring us down to Bay Eight,¡± Arthros commanded.


    The Reckless twisted and flew toward the landing bay on the far left. Compared to the others, this area was the most compacted. At least six other Novawolf M-42 cruisers were docked.


    They hovered over an empty space before the ship slowly lowered itself to the ground. Without a word, Arthros got up and marched toward the exit. Jericho followed him, keeping a careful hold of his waistline.


    As they passed the lab room, Jericho grabbed the bag that held his other clothes, and the two ARC blades he had brought with him.


    The cargo doors opened with a faint hiss, and the ramp extended instantly. Two workers hurried by and dipped their heads in respect to Arthros. They began to work on The Reckless, going through a checklist with professional efficiency.


    Arthros strode down the ramp with his head held high and Jericho followed him with a tentative step.


    ¡°Now THAT is one sexy CO!¡± a loud voice called out.


    Jericho stiffened. Surely that wasn¡¯t directed toward the cantankerous Hokkonian.


    ¡°Randrea.¡± Arthros turned to Jericho, ¡°This is my Lieutenant. She¡¯s a Synaptic Rank: Eight.


    Jericho felt his breath catch in his throat; he had never seen a female Hokkonian before and he was surprisingly pleased with his first experience.


    She was beautiful, in a wild, alien sort of way. She moved with the grace of an elite warrior. Every delightful skip was done with the efficiency and fluidity of a dancer. She was as tall as Arthros but much slimmer, though her lean musculature removed any suspicion of fragility.


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    She could probably kill me with her bare hands¡­there are worse ways to go.


    She strutted up to them, a bright smile plastered on her face. A single strip of her cranial spines were erect while the rest remained flattened against her skin¡ªa fashion choice that matched the tattoos creeping up her neck. Her uniform could barely be considered a shirt. The sleeves had been torn off along with the midriff, revealing a toned, grey-skinned stomach.


    No belly button? Interesting.


    His eyes lingered a little longer than they should have as she pranced toward them. He found himself comparing the female to Kyrin back home, and was struck by a wave of guilt and a general disgust for his male brain.


    ¡°Did you miss me, Cap?¡± Randrea placed a hand on Arthros¡¯ shoulder and squeezed. ¡°Cause we all missed you.¡±


    Was it possible to miss Arthros?


    ¡°I¡¯m a Commander, not a Captain,¡± Arthros¡¯ tone implied that correcting her was a waste of time.


    ¡°Sure, sure,¡± Randrea said, waving her hand as she directed her attention at Jericho.


    He felt his cheeks redden as the female Hokkonian¡¯s white eyes studied him. Her gaze raked him from head to toe. She suddenly dropped to one knee and brought her face close to his.


    ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t take slaves,¡± she murmured, studying him like a rat in a cage.


    What? ¡°I¡¯m not a bloody¨C¡±


    A firm hand on his shoulder warned him to be quiet. ¡°He¡¯s not a slave; he¡¯s the new recruit.¡±


    Her smile faded, ¡°No.¡±


    Jericho squirmed and opened his mouth for another sharp retort, but Arthros¡¯ fingers dug in painfully.


    ¡°I expect your full support on this,¡± he growled.


    Her lip curled, and she folded her arms across her chest as she straightened, ¡°Don¡¯t question my loyalty, Arthros. That will really piss me off.¡±


    Arthros raised his hands defensively but kept his face expressionless, ¡°This is a big deal. I just want to make sure.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re damn right it¡¯s a big deal. The others are going to freak out.¡±


    They really hate humans that much? Jericho clenched his fists.


    ¡°He¡¯s not going to be a liability, I can assure you.¡± There was a warning note in his calm voice.


    Jericho shifted uncomfortably, half expecting the female Hokkonian to swing at him. The other workers in the bay started to notice the commotion and stopped what they were doing to watch.


    Randrea clearly didn¡¯t care, ¡°Not a liability? Just look at him. He¡¯s almost as small as Fydither.¡±


    ¡°I can hold my own,¡± Jericho retorted.


    Randrea whirled on him and snarled, ¡°You speak when you¡¯re spoken to.¡±


    This bitch! Jericho tensed, ready for the fight.


    ¡°Randrea!¡± Arthros¡¯ booming voice made them both jump.


    Randrea¡¯s snarl melted into a meek grimace and she slowly turned to face Arthros. His face showed no sign of anger, but all the spines on his head stood erect.


    ¡°This is my decision. Do you understand?¡± His voice was quiet, but his spines remained erect.


    She didn¡¯t dare open her mouth.


    ¡°He¡¯s not a slave,¡± Arthros insisted.


    She nodded again.


    ¡°Randrea.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not a slave¡­I¡¯m sorry, Commander. I forgot myself.¡±


    ¡°I agree. Make sure the others understand too.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Jericho took a deep breath. He glanced up at Arthros who gave him the smallest nod.


    ¡°I¡¯m Jericho,¡± he said, with as much confidence as he could muster. ¡°It¡¯s good to meet you.¡±


    Randrea stared at him for a moment. Her face was unreadable but she was fighting within herself to appease the Commander. Finally, she nodded and muttered, ¡°Randrea.¡±


    Is that going to be enough to keep her from killing me?


    She cracked her neck, stared at him for an uncomfortable amount of time, and then frowned at Arthros, ¡°So he actually passed the integration exam?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t bring him here if he didn¡¯t,¡± Arthros said.


    The female let out a low whistle, ¡°I gotta say human. That is impressive.¡±


    Jericho felt his cheeks color at the compliment, and his awkwardness returned immediately.


    Pull it together, you loser. Are you kidding? She wanted to kill you five seconds ago. Don¡¯t go soft on me!


    ¡°So how many stims did you stick in him before you landed?¡± she chuckled.


    Arthros¡¯ mouth twitched, ¡°None, actually. And he shattered your exit time.¡±


    Randrea looked back at Jericho, her eyes wide. ¡°There¡¯s no way.¡±


    ¡°Oh, yes.¡± Excitement was laced within the Commander¡¯s bored tone, ¡°And not just yours¡ªno one else came close.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s chest swelled with pride.


    The female tapped the tips of her teeth together, ¡°Sto is going to be so mad.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of, where are the others?¡± Arthros questioned, looking around the bay.


    The female kissed her teeth and shook her head, ¡°Uh, well,¡± her wide-set nostrils flared. ¡°Scor and Fluxer are¨C¡±


    ¡°Training arena? Not surprising, but I was expecting the other four to be here.¡±


    The female grimaced, ¡°Oh, they¡¯re here, they were just¡­denied access to the bay.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± came the low and dangerous reply.


    Randrea nodded her head slowly, her eyes flicking briefly to Jericho and back to Arthros.


    ¡°New orders from the Sovereignty. No aliens allowed on¨C¡±


    The spines on Arthros¡¯ body exploded as he let out a vicious snarl. He shouldered his way past Randrea, who lifted her hands in the air and spun away on her heel.


    Jericho glanced at her, ¡°There are other aliens here?¡±


    Randrea squeezed a fist and her knuckles cracked, ¡°Obviously. You think a human would be the first alien Arthros experimented with?¡±


    ¡°And the Sovereignty is okay with that?¡± Jericho watched the Commander stalk toward the gate.


    ¡°Of course not,¡± she shot him a sour look. ¡°But it¡¯s not their choice¡ªit¡¯s the Admiral¡¯s. Our division gets the best results, so we¡¯re basically untouchable. Doesn¡¯t mean they don¡¯t try, though.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re the best?¡± Jericho asked in incredulity.


    A heavy hand cuffed him over the back of his head, and he dropped to the ground like a sack of flour. He threw his hands up to shield his face, but when the blows didn¡¯t come, he peeked around his fingers. She was staring at him with contemptuous disgust.


    ¡°There is no we, human. You will fail, and when you do, a collar will be bolted to your neck like the rest of your kind here.¡±


    Jericho swallowed and his ears rang. He wanted to move but he was frozen in shock at her assault.


    Get up. Don¡¯t just let her do this to you! He carefully sat up and rubbed the back of his head with a grimace.


    Randrea took a deep breath and clacked the tips of her teeth together, ¡°Oh, don¡¯t mope. You¡¯re lucky I didn¡¯t break your neck. There was a time when I would have. Humans without collars are free game around here.¡± She narrowed her eyes, ¡°So you can thank Arthros for my gracious change in behavior.¡±


    He swallowed and licked his lips. His heart was pounding, and he tried to steady it so he could talk normally.


    What kind of hellscape did Arthros take you to?


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean any offense¨C¡±


    ¡°And there wasn¡¯t any. It takes a lot to offend me.¡± A long tongue swiped across her pointed teeth, ¡°I only struck you to teach you a lesson. You need to think before you speak, especially around the others. They won¡¯t be as gentle, and you¡¯re going to have to defend yourself. Arthros and I won¡¯t always be around to protect you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to protect me?¡± he couldn¡¯t help the disbelieving tone. A few minutes ago, she was ready to kill him.


    ¡°If Arthros commands it, I¡¯ll obey. I would follow him to the ends of the galaxy, even if the Sovereignty stripped me of my HWND.¡±


    This chick is crazy. Jericho pushed himself up to his feet and massaged the lump forming on the base of his skull. ¡°Well, thanks for the warning, I guess. Do the others all worship Arthros like you do?¡±


    Randrea folded her arms across her chest as she watched Arthros berate a laborer by the bay gates, ¡°That¡¯s the one thing we have in common. He saw something in us¡ªpotential.¡±


    ¡°And was he ever wrong?¡± Jericho asked with a playful grin.


    She turned sharp, white eyes on him, her face unreadable, ¡°He has been, many times.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s grin vanished.


    ¡°I¡¯ve watched his mistakes die, just like I¡¯ll watch you die.¡± There wasn¡¯t any menace in her voice. She spoke with the leisure simplicity of one commenting on the weather.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say you were going to protect me?¡± he shook his head, the rollercoaster of emotions was giving him a headache. Or maybe it was the open-handed blow Randrea had delivered to the back of his head.


    Randrea smiled like she was ready to tear the flesh off his bones, ¡°During training, you¡¯re free game.¡±


    Jericho forced a confident smirk even though his stomach flopped like a dying fish. ¡°Well, bring it on.¡±


    Her carnivorous grin softened and a curious look flickered on her features. Jericho could have sworn he caught a flash of respect in her contemptuous gaze. He found himself staring at her lips and the freckle-like spots that speckled her cheeks. Randrea lifted a hairless brow as she caught his stare and snorted.


    His face flushed and he turned away, boring his gaze into the concrete floor. He cursed the evolutionary instincts he was a slave to.


    Why did she have to be attractive? Just kill me now.


    Randrea barked out a sardonic laugh as Arthros stalked back over. ¡°Well, Cap? You get the bay doors open?¡±


    She casually nudged his arm, completely ignoring the furious look on his face.


    The spines on his body were as rigid as steel, but he didn¡¯t lash out. Instead, he shot her a disapproving glare. The soft spot he had for Randrea was becoming obvious.


    The large metal doors suddenly swung open with a drawn-out groan, revealing a brightly-lit corridor behind them. Four figures scrambled into the bay before the doors even had a chance to fully open. They snapped and snarled at the nearby workers to no effect. As they got closer, Jericho realized that he recognized almost every species from his time on Kleth¡¯altho.


    The aliens all greeted Arthros with respectable fervor, embracing their leader with a surprising amount of affection. Even the Aopriordin, a gargantuan quadrupedal, managed to embrace Arthros. It stood on its smaller, hind legs and rested ginormous, fore limbs on the Commander¡¯s shoulders. Arthros grunted under the weight.


    ¡°They locked the bloody gates on us, Arthros,¡± the Ordanian whined, flapping its wings in fervent displeasure.


    ¡°Next person to tell me I can¡¯t go somewhere dies,¡± a muscular, six-limbed alien snarled. It walked like a centaur, using four of its ape-like arms to walk.


    The fourth person, a Titulonist, said nothing.


    Arthros nodded grimly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯ll deal with it. In the meantime, I brought a fresh recruit back with me.¡±


    All eyes turned to Jericho. The silence that followed was unbearable.


    He forced a smile, ¡°Hi, uh, I¡¯m Jericho. It¡¯s nice to meet you all.¡±


    The six-legged alien scoffed, ¡°This is some kind of joke¨C¡±


    ¡°Randrea,¡± Arthros cut in. ¡°Please begin the introductions.¡±


    Yes, Randrea, please. I¡¯m drowning out here.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Randrea motioned to the four pilots with a grand gesture. ¡°This flying pebble is Fydither, the Ordanian. Synaptic Rank: Four. He¡¯s as annoying as he is devious.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, I guess,¡± Fydither muttered.


    Fydither was the color of sand with red eyes that glinted with unbridled narcissism. Stubby limbs protuded from the stone-like shell that encased his body. His large wings easily out-spanned Jericho¡¯s own arm length.


    He had seen lots of Ordanians on Kleth¡¯altho, never actually fighting but betting. They were a civilization with deep pockets.


    ¡°Dight, the Aopriordin. Synaptic Rank: Six. He doesn¡¯t say much,¡± she motioned to the hulking beast standing beside Fydither.


    Jericho had only seen Aopriordins a handful of times, but they were impossible not to recognize. This Aopriordin was the color of blood and his crimson skin was so smooth it looked like polished marble. Additionally, the alien was huge. On all fours, it stood just under Arthros¡¯ chest, and its disproportionately massive fore-limbs were as thick as architectural pillars. His withered hindlegs trailed behind, used more for balance than locomotion. Though, it wasn¡¯t the alien¡¯s size that made its appearance so memorable¡ªit was the lack of a head and the gaping hole in its chest.


    Jericho suppressed a shudder at the Aopriordin¡¯s colossal mouth. It was circular in shape and lined with multiple rows of sharp teeth. The alien¡¯s eyes were located on its shoulders like two large, blue globes.


    The strange-looking alien rocked sideways on its supporting arms, and rumbled an unintelligible reply. Randrea looked satisfied with the response.


    She pointed to the centaur, ¡°The nasty looking one is Graito, the Myrd. Synaptic Rank: Eight.¡±


    Jericho recognized the species immediately. They were legendary fighters in the pits. Their versatile bodies and deadly intelligence made them practically unbeatable. The current reigning champion of the pits was a Myrd, as was the previous one, and the one before that.


    It didn¡¯t matter that they were often the same size as humans. A brawler set to fight a Myrd was a brawler doomed to die.


    Graito had leathery skin the color of mud¡ªdifferent shades of brown thrown together like sloppy camouflage. Graito tilted his small head as he looked at him, four yellow eyes staring death into his own. His bulbous lips pulled back in a nasty snarl.


    ¡°And Sto¡¯ram. She¡¯s a Titulonist and a Synaptic Rank: Two. Have you ever seen one out of the water?¡± Randrea pointed to the black-scaled humanoid.


    Jericho absently shook his head as he stared in wonder. Out of the water? He had never seen one period. Sto¡¯ram gave Randrea an indignant look with large orb-like eyes and then respectfully dipped her head. She was probably only a few inches taller than him. Her scales were so dark, she more closely resembled a shadow than a tangible biological. A colorless mucus dripped from her body and pooled at her feet. It had a strange odor, and Jericho had to force himself not to react. Two long tendrils protruded like hair from the alien¡¯s temple and writhed in the air as if they were searching for something. Searching for him, maybe.


    Jericho ignored the anxiety tightening his chest and gave the group a confident grin, ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to my time here. I promise I¡¯ll work just as hard as anyone.¡±


    An awkward silence followed as the pilots all shared a glance.


    Fydither broke out into a mischievous smile and turned to Arthros, his contemptuous gaze lagging behind as he tore it from Jericho. ¡°Is this for real, Commander? He¡¯s not even a big one.¡±


    ¡°Try looking in a mirror,¡± Randrea snapped.


    Jericho shot her a surprised look. The muscles in her forearms bulged as she crossed her arms.


    Graito¡¯s big lips parted in an odd smile, and he shook his head, ¡°Fyd is right. Even a collar would weigh this one down.¡± His voice was nasally but baritone.


    A low rumbling chuckle echoed from Dight¡¯s cavernous mouth.


    Jericho clenched his fists. He glanced at Arthros for support, only to find the Commander watching him intently.


    He took a deep breath and turned back to Graito, ¡°I passed the test; I have every right to be here.¡±


    Fydither cackled, and Graito frowned, ¡°A slave and a liar.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a¨C!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± Sto¡¯ram broke in, pointing a webbed hand at his forehead. ¡°He¡¯s already passed the test.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible,¡± Graito sneered.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, you ugly bastards,¡± Randrea said with a dangerous smile. ¡°The Cap actually found one with the brain power.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going to call us ugly when you look like that?¡± Fydither snorted.


    Randrea¡¯s grin turned deadly, ¡°Speaking of brain power, Fyd, how did you even pass the test?¡±


    Fydither launched himself at Randrea¡¯s face and a flurry of curses broke out before Arthros stepped in. He grabbed Fydither, tearing him from Randrea¡¯s head and holding him away at arm¡¯s length. The Ordanian writhed in his grasp still hurling insults at Randrea who stuck out a long, pointed tongue.


    What the hell is going on? Is everyone here insane?


    Arthros seemed bored and completely unsurprised by the sudden fight.


    ¡°Jericho will train to be a pilot. I don¡¯t care if you disagree with that decision. It wouldn¡¯t matter if you did. Do you all understand?¡±


    The four pilots all nodded but none of them seemed keen to obey. Fydither wriggled out of Arthros¡¯ grasp, muttering darkly to himself about Randrea. The female Hokkonian smirked and winked at him.


    Sto''ram looked at both of them. ¡°Is it wise to fight like this before a recruit? His first impression of our division will not be good. He may perceive us as dysfunctional.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, Sto,¡± Graito snorted. ¡°We ARE dysfunctional.¡±


    The Titulonist sniffed and turned away, ¡°Well I¡¯m not.¡±


    Another chuckle rumbled like an earthquake from the Aopriordin¡¯s gaping maw. Jericho was beginning to wonder if that¡¯s all he ever did.


    ¡°What¡¯s his Synaptic Rank?¡± Fydither asked.


    Arthros shook his head, ¡°He¡¯s a fresh recruit¡ªhis ranking is unavailable. Please show Jericho around. Once he¡¯s settled, we can start the program.¡±


    ¡°Psychosomatic output?¡± the Ordanian pressed.


    The Commander looked unimpressed, ¡°Low, but I shouldn¡¯t have to remind you of your scores when I brought you here.¡±


    Fydither muttered something under his breath, and Randrea shot him a snide grin.


    ¡°Pilots, please show Jericho around. We won¡¯t waste any time with his initiation,¡± Arthros¡¯ sudden commanding tone forced everyone to stiffen.


    ¡°Are you not coming back with us?¡± Randrea asked.


    Arthros tapped his teeth together, staring past them with a thoughtful look, ¡°I have to speak with the Admiral.¡±


    ¡°For what?¡± Randrea tilted her head.


    ¡°For starters, why the best pilots in the star system were denied access to their own hangar. I¡¯ll debrief you all the rest. Now go.¡±


    Arthros turned on his heel and marched past The Reckless, disappearing behind the matte-black hull.


    ¡°You heard the Commander,¡± Graito said. ¡°Let''s show the human around and see if he really is a pilot.¡±


    ¡°I have a name,¡± Jericho muttered.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear Arthros?¡± Randrea demanded. ¡°Or is his word not good enough for you?¡±


    The Myrd snorted and stood up onto only two limbs, raising his height to near eye-level with Randrea. ¡°Are you challenging my loyalty, Drea?¡±


    The two stared at each other for a long time. Graito stood as still as a statue, but Randrea¡¯s arms twitched.


    Come on Randrea, clock him!


    ¡°Come on, guys. We don¡¯t need to fight¨C¡±


    Raucous laughter interrupted him and the two doubled over.


    ¡°I would have cut you down in seconds,¡± Randrea said, laughter bubbling between her words.


    Graito shook his head with a wide smile, ¡°Your neck would have been broken before you had a chance.¡±


    ¡°Oh for Tril¡¯s sake,¡± Fydither snapped. ¡°Next time, just kill each other and save us all the trouble.¡±


    Randrea lashed out at the Ordanian, but the flying alien dodged the strike with a violent jerk of his body. He gasped in indignation, which caused Graito to gurgle another strange laugh.


    Fydither hurled a curse Jericho had never heard before, and judging by Randrea¡¯s shocked expression, it wasn¡¯t pleasant.


    It was Sto''ram who stepped in with the voice of reason, ¡°Perhaps we should think about actually obeying our Commander¡¯s orders?¡±


    Dight stomped his feet and rumbled an agreement. Fydither scoffed and flew away from Randrea.


    Graito chuckled and clapped him on the back, ¡°You got her next time.¡± He turned to glance back at Jericho, who was intentionally keeping his distance. ¡°Don¡¯t lag behind, human. It¡¯s not safe to walk around uncollared.¡±


    Jericho didn¡¯t follow. He fastened his feet to the ground and stared hard at the group as they turned down the hallway.


    Don¡¯t back down.


    ¡°I have a name, Myrd,¡± he mustered as much courage as he could.


    Graito stiffened, causing the rest of the group to turn around and look at him. ¡°What did you say to me?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me human. My name is Jericho Hound.¡± He¡¯s going to kill you. He¡¯s going to rip your arms off.


    The rest of the group froze, and slowly turned to face him. Randrea had an odd look on her face, but Graito stared at him with cold fury.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± the Myrd¡¯s yellow eyes flashed. ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for Arthros, I¡¯d drop you right here.¡±


    Jericho clenched his fists and stiffened his back.


    Make your stand, Jericho. You¡¯ve faced worse.


    ¡°Then do it. He¡¯s not here now, is he?¡±


    Fydither¡¯s red eyes widened, and the ghost of a smile touched Randrea¡¯s lips. Graito''s teeth were bared in a snarl, but he hesitated and Jericho pressed on.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to stand here and take your abuse. You want to bully me? Fine. But I¡¯m not going to make it easy.¡± He¡¯s going to bite a chunk out of your throat. ¡°Don¡¯t call me a slave again.¡±


    For a moment, Jericho was hopeful that Graito would miraculously obey, but then those predator-like eyes narrowed, and his bulbous lips bent in a scornful frown.


    ¡°Humans are all the same. Even the ones in collars think they¡¯re different, that they¡¯re special, when the truth is that humans are an overpopulated, out-of-control, filthy species that has filled every crack and crevice this star system has to offer. You¡¯re not any different, Jericho. You¡¯re a disease-ridden vermin and you deserve to wear a collar.¡± Graito bent close, his flattened face only a few feet away from Jericho¡¯s. ¡°You¡¯re a slave; always will be.¡±


    Time slowed and Jericho saw the silver thread hanging from Graito¡¯s neck. He shifted his weight into his right foot and with as much power as he could muster, he threw a right hook, aiming for the side of the Myrd¡¯s neck.


    As his hips twisted to add to the power of the punch, he knew that it was a perfect strike. He was moving at top speed, and Graito was caught unaware, except his fist cut through the air, and Graito was no longer standing a few feet in front of him. Jericho blinked and Graito reappeared in the right side of his vision. The Myrd¡¯s speed was nothing like Jericho had ever seen before. It was the power of a Synaptic Rank: Eight. Jericho didn¡¯t stand a chance.


    The silver thread was still dangling from Graito¡¯s neck when his fist smashed into Jericho¡¯s face.

 Chapter 13 - Arthros

    Chapter 13 ¨C Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Arthros stalked through the landing zone with his blood boiling. He didn¡¯t care to flatten the spines on his skin; he wanted them to be seen.


    Was the general population so idiotic that they couldn¡¯t see how valuable his pilots were?


    They were all incredibly gifted and excelled in every statistical category. Why couldn¡¯t the Sovereignty see their value? Why couldn¡¯t they understand how lucky they were that he got to them first? They fought for Hokku¡ªthat alone was a blessing.


    He turned sharply down the corridor that led to the Admiral¡¯s office and wondered if Jericho would survive here. He had the mind and the spirit to succeed, but humans were notoriously fragile. If he wasn¡¯t careful, Jericho could die before reaching his true potential, regardless of his unbound synaptic ranking. He had to make sure that didn¡¯t happen.


    ¡°You¡¯re late!¡± a voice called from down the hall.


    Arthros¡¯ spines twitched. He wasn¡¯t even in the room and he was already being yelled at. He deactivated Zero specifically for this conversation; the last thing he needed was her antagonizing jealousy distracting him.


    He turned to the corner to see his old friend seated behind her desk.


    ¡°Admiral,¡± he said, nodding at the decorated female sprawling in her padded chair. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re late, Arthros,¡± she grumbled, drumming her fingertips on her desk. ¡°You can add it to the long list of why I¡¯m pissed off today.¡±


    ¡°How long of a list?¡±


    She gave him a flat stare, ¡°You can¡¯t just leave the planet¡ªyou have a military occupation. This planet relies on you. I rely on you.¡±


    Arthros grabbed an empty chair and slowly lowered himself, ¡°My vacation was overdue.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t get a vacation,¡± the Admiral snapped. ¡°I need you here.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not the only one who can pilot a HWND, you know.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but none of them have the same reputation you do. What am I supposed to do when you¡¯re requested personally? I damn near died of embarrassment when I had to tell them I didn¡¯t know where you were.¡±


    Arthros let out a low sigh, ¡°So, it¡¯s about them.¡±


    ¡°They tried to have you executed, do you realize that? They¡¯re questioning my ability as a leader because I can¡¯t ¡®control¡¯ you.¡±


    He snorted, ¡°You never could.¡±


    ¡°Arthros!¡± She gave him a look so cold he stiffened, ¡°This is not a game; this is my career. I won¡¯t be able to hold them back much longer.¡±


    Arthros narrowed his eyes, ¡°What do you mean? The Sovereignty doesn¡¯t hold any power over the Navy. We¡¯re autonomous.¡±


    The Admiral sighed and seemed to sag into her chair. ¡°There was an announcement¡­they¡¯re pushing for a Sovereignty representative to earn rank as an Admiral.¡±


    ¡°They¨Cwhat!¡± Arthros bared his teeth, ¡°When was this announcement? I didn¡¯t hear anything.¡±


    ¡°Because you were gone!¡± she slammed her fist down. ¡°Off on another foolish adventure. This is serious, Arthros. They don¡¯t want to be left in the dark anymore.¡± She frowned and jabbed a finger at his chest, ¡°They don¡¯t want you to embarrass them anymore.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re going to strip you of your rank and reassign you to the personal guard.¡±


    Arthros bristled, ¡°I¡¯d sooner have them extract Zero.¡±


    The Admiral gave him a dark look, ¡°Don¡¯t give them any ideas. There¡¯s nothing I can do to stop this, Arthros.¡±


    ¡°What will happen to my division?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to protect them, but I can¡¯t offer any promises. You have always been the sole reason they¡¯re tolerated. The public wants to forget about them, and the Sovereignty wants them dead.¡±


    He could feel a vein bulging out of his neck as he gripped the armrests of the chair. How he longed to wrap his hands around the Sovereignty¡¯s skinny necks. Couldn¡¯t they see what he was trying to do? It was all for the benefit of the star system.


    ¡°There¡¯s got to be something we can do,¡± he ground out.


    Admiral Zludikai let out a dry chuckle and shook her head, ¡°Sure, but I doubt it¡¯s going to be possible.¡±


    He tapped the tips of his teeth together. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°You have to behave yourself.¡±


    Arthros snorted but Zludikai crossed her arms and gave him a serious look. ¡°I¡¯m not joking. Be what you were born to be¡ªa good soldier. Don¡¯t make it easy for them.¡±


    He took a deep breath and nodded curtly, ¡°Fine, whatever you need.¡±


    She gave him a smile devoid of warmth, ¡°For both of our sakes, I hope you mean it.¡±


    Arthros wanted to wipe the smile from her face and scream some sense into her. She was just as bad as they were¡ªa slave to their own societal ideals and political standings. He wanted to force her to understand that they were playing her, but she would never listen. She was too proud, too caught up in her own mind and worrying over her career. Hokku was dying, couldn¡¯t she see that? He closed his eyes and, in an effort to stop his mind from racing, dug his fingers into his thigh. Why could no one understand?


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    He opened his eyes to the Admiral peering at him with a concerned look.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± He pushed himself out of the chair, ¡°Anything else?¡±


    She stared at him with a puzzled expression, ¡°We¡¯ve only just begun. Sit back down.¡±


    ¡°I¨C¡± Her eyebrows raised. With an annoyed growl, he roughly grabbed the chair¡¯s headrest and forced himself back down. ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°Why were you on Kleth''altho?¡±


    ¡°Recruiting.¡±


    Zludikai frowned, ¡°I was afraid you were going to say that.¡±


    Arthros said nothing and studied the desk in front of him.


    ¡°Were you successful?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet.¡±


    ¡°So, you brought one back?¡±


    ¡°I did.¡± He traced a finger along a groove in the polished wood.


    She sighed, ¡°This is the complete opposite of good behaviour.¡±


    ¡°Obviously I made this decision before I heard about the potential reassignment.¡±


    She folded her hands together, ¡°Get rid of it.¡±


    His head snapped up, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to get rid of it. The Sovereignty won¡¯t stand for it.¡±


    ¡°The Sovereignty doesn¡¯t need to know!¡±


    Zludikai shook her head, ¡°They¡¯ll find out eventually, and when they do, that could be the final stone.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ spines bristled, ¡°He passed the integration¡ªI¡¯m not going to just get rid of him.¡±


    She shrugged, ¡°It¡¯s not up to you, or me. The Sovereignty will not allow¨C¡±


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    ¡°Tril forsake the Sovereignty!¡± he snapped. ¡°Those idiots don¡¯t know what they¡¯re talking about. This is a military matter.¡±


    She made a tight line with her mouth, and her own spines threatened to stand on end. ¡°Watch your mouth, Commander. They don¡¯t have the influence yet, but they will, and when they do, I don¡¯t intend to lose my position over an unproven alien you¡¯ve brought over.¡±


    He shook his head, ¡°Then I¡¯ll take the blame. It was my choice.¡±


    She looked indignant, ¡°That¡¯s not how this works. I¡¯m your commanding officer! I can¡¯t just ignore¨C¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t ignore something you¡¯ve never known about. When they find out, tell them you never knew and then you can condemn me to whatever punishment you deem fit.¡±


    She was silent for a long moment, studying him with a cool eye and pursed lips. ¡°That could be a court martial¡­that could be an execution.¡±


    He glared at her and shrugged, ¡°Okay.¡±


    There was an uneasy silence in the office as the Admiral seemed almost offended by his answer. He debated telling her Jericho¡¯s true potential¡ªthat he was unbound. Would she even believe him?


    ¡°You want this recruit to stay that badly?¡±


    Arthros nodded slowly, ¡°I have a good feeling about him.¡±


    Zludikai raised a hairless eyebrow, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that before.¡±


    He only shrugged and watched Zludikai think it over. Her white eyes narrowed, and she leaned on the desk. Arthros had to look away. He never was good at looking her in the eyes.


    ¡°You know something,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°I know a lot of things,¡± he said carefully.


    She snorted, ¡°If this is going to work, then I need you to tell me everything.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re going to help me?¡±


    Zludikai lifted a finger, ¡°I didn¡¯t say that. Secrets first, trust and assistance later.¡±


    Arthros contemplated what amount of truth he was willing to part with. In the end, he figured there was only one piece of information that would truly win her over.


    He glanced at her, and she leaned back in her chair with folded arms, ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡±


    ¡°This recruit has a very promising Synaptic Rank.¡±


    Zludikai¡¯s expression flickered with interest, but she maintained her neutral expression with practiced effort. ¡°They¡¯re already rank eligible?¡±


    Arthros¡¯ tongue explored the inside of his cheek as he hesitated, ¡°Not exactly.¡±


    ¡°Just spit it out, Arthros.¡±


    He ran a hand over the spines on his head and sighed, ¡°He¡¯s unbound.¡±


    Zludikai stared at him with a mixed look of confusion and disbelief.


    Spurred by her silence, Arthros continued, ¡°I didn¡¯t believe it at first either, but Zero scanned his psymetra score four times on Kleth¡¯altho and twice on my ship. It was unreadable.¡±


    She blinked and gave a slow shake of her head, ¡°That doesn¡¯t necessarily mean he¡¯s unbound.¡±


    It was Arthros¡¯ turn to lift a brow, ¡°Come on, ¡®Kai. What else could that possibly mean?¡±


    Normally, the nickname elicited a sharp-tongued retort and a finger wag.


    She just stared at him, brow knit in incomprehension. ¡°That doesn¡¯t make sense, Arthros. It¡¯s unprecedented. It¡¯s never been done.¡±


    ¡°What, I don¡¯t exist?¡±


    She scoffed, ¡°You don¡¯t really count. Your situation isn¡¯t natural.¡±


    The distaste in her words stung, but he tried not to think about it. ¡°Even more reason to keep him alive.¡±


    For a moment, they both sat in silence. Arthros watched her as she stared holes into her desk. He found himself drawn to the fine lines of her face. In another life, maybe he would have reached out to caress her cheek. His wandering thoughts stumbled into the inevitable reality of his destiny. It didn¡¯t matter if he had an infinite amount of lives, each one would end the same way.


    He was created for a single purpose, and he wouldn¡¯t change that for something so superficial as attraction.


    He tore his gaze from her face and looked around the office. It was a simple room with bare walls and sparse furniture¡ªan intentional design choice. The less inviting, the more likely she was to spend time in the field. Arthros was sure she would turn down the next promotion, because the next rung on the ladder would force her behind a desk for the rest of her life. She wasn¡¯t that kind of person. It was one of the things he admired the most about her.


    ¡°You¡¯re insane,¡± the sound of her voice pulled him from his thoughts.


    His lips twisted in a wry grin, ¡°I¡¯ve heard.¡±


    ¡°So, what race is this one? Another Myrd hopefully.¡±


    Before Arthros could respond, a chime sounded from the tiny floating globe on the desk. The Admiral glanced at it and then muttered a curse.


    ¡°We¡¯ll talk later¡ªlooks like I¡¯m needed.¡±


    With a grunt, Arthros pushed himself out of his chair and cracked his neck with a few sharp pops. ¡°Nothing to worry about, I hope?¡±


    She gave him a bland look, ¡°When was there not?¡±


    Arthros shrugged, ¡°What about the breach? When do you want to talk about that?¡±


    The female pursed her lips, ¡°Just send me your reports and I¡¯ll go over them myself. I¡¯ll track you down if I have any questions. This breach has exposed us; it¡¯s not good.¡±


    He narrowed his eyes at her obvious weariness. It took a lot to shake Zludikai, and the fact that she was this visibly taxed concerned him.


    She met his questioning look and it was her turn for a wry grin, ¡°Oh now you¡¯re pretending to care? Go train your unbound recruit. We¡¯re going to need him.¡±


    With a half-hearted salute, he slipped out of the exit. At least he was able to escape the meeting without having to disclose Jericho¡¯s race. If she knew it was a human, who knows how she would have reacted? Though, he couldn¡¯t shake the unmistakable look of dread that he caught in her eyes. There was something wrong. He thought back to his purpose and why he had been created in the first place.


    To protect Dromedar.


    ***


    The common room wasn¡¯t usually crowded, but the excitement of the new recruit had all the pilots gathered. It was a large, circular room painted blue on one half and gold on the either. Lounging furniture was arranged in a smaller circle at the center of the room, large enough for all the pilots to sit comfortably, even Dight.


    When Arthros entered, everyone was sitting on the cushioned furniture. Their chatter died when he cleared his throat to catch their attention.


    Scor and Flux bounded up to greet him. The Twin Hokkonians looked identical. They were abnormally short but made up for it in muscle bulk. They embraced him in a bone-crushing squeeze and he had to pry their arms off.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Jericho?¡± he grimaced, shaking free of the hug.


    ¡°I asked the same thing,¡± one twin said.


    ¡°Randrea said we couldn¡¯t see him for a few hours,¡± the other grumbled.


    Arthros shot a questioning glance at Randrea, who made a tight line with her mouth and shook her head.


    ¡°What happened?¡± he growled.


    ¡°The human got smart with us,¡± Fydither sneered.


    Arthros felt his mood sour, and he couldn¡¯t help but shoot an uncharacteristic glare at the Ordanian, who withered beneath it.


    ¡°I know Fydither didn¡¯t do anything,¡± he said sarcastically. He looked around, but all eyes were on the floor. ¡°What. Happened?¡±


    It was Randrea who spoke up, ¡°There was a fight.¡±


    His sour mood darkened, ¡°Is he dead?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t hit him that hard,¡± Graito said quickly, meeting Arthros'' stare for an instant before dropping his own back to the floor.


    ¡°He¡¯ll be waking up soon, Commander,¡± a watery voice said from the far corner of the room. Arthros glanced at Sto''ram, her large black eyes rolling wildly like a nervous animal, ¡°I attended to his injuries.¡±


    The common room was dead quiet as they all watched him carefully. Sto''ram took a few slow steps backward and the twins shuffled uncomfortably.


    He took a deep breath, ¡°Jericho is one of us. I don¡¯t care what you think about humans, that ends here and now.¡±


    They all nodded, too afraid to speak out.


    ¡°Graito,¡± Arthros growled. ¡°Don¡¯t forget about how we met. You are in no place to cast judgment.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, I¨C I¡¯m sorry.¡± The Myrd¡¯s four arms drooped and he dropped his head.


    ¡°If it happens again, it will be you in the infirmary. Do you understand?¡± The anger in his stomach dissipated, and he felt a flicker of guilt at the hurt look on the Myrd¡¯s face. He had to press on. ¡°There is no place in my division for us to be turning on each other. You have enough enemies out there; you don¡¯t need them in here.¡±


    Randrea glanced at Graito and chewed on the inside of her cheek, ¡°Cap, Graito was only defending the program. The human claimed his surname was Hound.¡±


    Arthros suppressed a wince. He was hoping to keep that a secret. ¡°I understand how that was jarring, but it doesn¡¯t mean you just lose control.¡±


    The hypocrisy of his words were heavy enough to weigh their gazes. No one dared to challenge him, but they all knew. Arthros was the last one to be preaching self-control. He pushed out the image of the human he killed on Kleth¡¯altho with an irritated grunt.


    ¡°Smart of you all to keep your mouths shut,¡± his words were enough to ease some of the tension, and he caught a hidden smile on Randrea¡¯s face. ¡°Don¡¯t call him Hound. You think I am? Absolutely not, but that¡¯s my only compromise. Outside of training, he¡¯s one of us.¡± He swung a pointed finger across the group, ¡°Do you understand?¡±


    There was a collective, "Yes sir," and he nodded to the group. ¡°I¡¯ll see you all tomorrow.¡±


    He stepped out of the common room, and took a moment to collect himself. He wanted to punch a hole in the wall, but managed to still his anger. He wasn¡¯t sure who he was more angry with.


    He stormed toward Jericho¡¯s room, and heard footsteps behind him. He turned to see the twins following him. ¡°What are you two doing?¡±


    ¡°Going to talk to the human,¡± Scor said sheepishly. Fluxor nodded vigorously.


    Arthros gave them a flat look, ¡°You can once I¡¯m finished. Wait out here.¡±


    He reached the door and placed a hand on the key tab. The door slid open automatically.


    The room was small for a Hokkonian, with a closet and a door that led to the washroom. It was relatively empty except for a small desk and a hammock which hung at the far end of the room. Sitting in the hammock, with a bandage wound around his head, was Jericho.


    The human gave him a surprised look, ¡°Arthr¨C I mean Commander, what are you doing here?¡±


    In an instant, all the frustration of the day''s events erupted and he stomped toward the young human. There was too much at stake for him to take such a beating so easily. Didn¡¯t he fight back? Was he bested by Graito so effortlessly? Was he really going to entrust the future of his career and the division to an undersized human?


    With a frustrated snarl, he caught Jericho by the throat and lifted him out of the hammock. ¡°Did I make a mistake bringing you here?¡±


    Jericho clawed at the hand around his neck and stared at Arthros with confused fear. All he could manage was a strangled gurgle.


    ¡°I can not afford for you to be a disappointment.¡±


    He let go and Jericho fell to the ground, choking and sputtering. He marched away before he could feel guilty. He pushed his way past the twins who waited eagerly in the hall.


    ¡°He¡¯s all yours.¡±


    He heard the twins barge into the room with their typical loud energy. They were the best people for Jericho to see right after what just happened. Unlike the other Hokkonians, they cared little for the societal hierarchy. He wasn¡¯t sure if they shared a single prejudicial bone in their bodies.


    He couldn¡¯t help the guilt that hung around his heart like a chain, but it was for the best. He had to bring out the best in the human. For everyone¡¯s sake, the human had to suffer.

 Chapter 14 - Cyprus

    Cyprus


    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    Cyrpus wrapped the blanket tighter around her shoulders as she shivered. Recli had demanded to cool the Terminus down to uncomfortable temperatures. She had argued at first, but her will to fight died when she caught the murderous glint in his eyes.


    How often did he fight the urge to spill her guts out onto the cold steel?


    She instinctively looked over her shoulder as she walked down the corridor. She half expected to see him lurking behind a corner, orange eyes glowing in the shadows. Another one of his demands- keep the lights down. Weren¡¯t lizards cold blooded?


    Her tablet vibrated and she pulled it out from the satchel slung over her shoulder.


    ¡°Granddad!¡± She exclaimed, holding up the pocket-sized hologram of Giantis head, ¡°It¡¯s good to see you.¡±


    It really was. Seeing his wrinkled face brought a surprising but welcome warmth to her heart.


    ¡°Likewise, my dear¡± His eyes narrowed, ¡°Are you okay? Is there an issue with the life support system?¡±


    She stepped into the bright lights of the flight deck, and the door automatically closed behind her. She was grateful for the comforting illumination, it made her feel safe.


    She smiled and waved away the comment, ¡°Oh, uh, no everything is fine. I think there¡¯s just an issue with the lights.¡±


    ¡°And the blanket?¡±


    ¡°Oh! You know what I think I might be coming down with something. I¡¯m just feeling a little chilly.¡±


    Giantis frowned and studied her, ¡°Cyprus, I¡¯ve done a lot of thinking and perhaps I was too rash in my decision to send you out there.¡± He seemed to struggle for the words, ¡°say the word and you can come back I¡¯ll reinstate your seat.¡±


    A part of her longed to break down into tears and accept the offer. Anything to get away from Recli, anything to put distance between her and the Hokkonians. But she couldn¡¯t, she started something and she would finish it. That was the Atik way.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine Grandad,¡± She said in a quiet voice, ¡°It¡¯s going to take some getting used to, but I think I can make a real difference stationed out here.¡±


    The old man gave her a sad smile and nodded, ¡°Well if you change your mind...¡±


    ¡°You got it.¡±


    A cough to clear his throat, ¡°well of course I¡¯m not calling just to socialize, I wanted to inform you that a full crew has been hired and dispatched, along with a replacement group of engineers. A tragedy that story is, I¡¯m sorry you had to experience that on your first day.¡±


    She knew this was coming, but she was hoping it would still be a while. She couldn¡¯t let anyone discover Recli.


    ¡°Yeah it was certainly sad.¡± She shuddered at the mental image of the decapitated engineer.


    Giantis shook his head, ¡°Suicide, and a Union service station of all places!¡±


    Cyprus swallowed, ¡°well it is quite lonely out here.¡±


    ¡°Yes well, I can¡¯t say we haven¡¯t learned our lesson, there has been a complete overhaul to the crew shifts on all union stations. We won¡¯t let this happen again.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to hear that Grandad, how long did you say it would be until the shuttle arives with the new crew?¡±


    The hologram shook as the old man hacked a cough into his arm, ¡°sorry, ahem, shouldn¡¯t be more than a week.¡±


    A week? She had a week to find a way to get Recli off the station and onto someplace more permanent. Maybe Giantis would have a information on Reloculan.


    ¡°Cyprus, did you hear me?¡±


    ¡°What? Oh sorry Grandad, what were you saying?¡±


    ¡°I said, I have a new assignment for you if you¡¯re up to it.¡±


    ¡°Oh! Yes of course what is it.¡±


    There was a faint scrape of metal from outside her door and she felt her heart quicken. Was it Recli?


    ¡°I would like for you to attend a meeting a meeting with the Hokkonians on Ordan. These meetings typically don¡¯t involve union business. However, our treaty demands a third-party union representative when any nation meets with a civilization outside of our territory. I was going to send a Council member from Terminus eight, but I figured you could use the experience.¡±


    Another faint creak, it was soft but it quickened her heartrate nonetheless. ¡°Uh sure Grandad I can do that.¡±


    He smiled, ¡°It¡¯s settled then, I¡¯ll inform Council member Shlif of your involvement, and he¡¯ll be in touch with the details.¡±


    ¡°Okay that¡¯s great. I have a question, what do you know of the Relocs?¡±


    Giantis raised his bushy eyebrows, ¡°enough to pass a history test, what do you want to know?¡±


    ¡°Are they still, you know, active?¡±


    The old man sighed, ¡°their story is a sad one I¡¯m afraid, the kind that doesn¡¯t have a happy ending.¡±


    ¡°Give me the short version.¡±


    He itched his nose, ¡°The short version¡­ well they were at one point a great civilization, one that rivaled Hokku in terms of size and power. Their military however was proportionately tiny, and when the civil war came¡­ they didn¡¯t stand a chance. Because of their location, Reloculan caught the brunt of Hokku¡¯s crusade, and the planet was practically decimated.¡±


    ¡°But the Relocs are still alive, are they not?¡±


    Giantis nodded, ¡°a few escaped, not many. By the time they knew what was happening, there was already a blockade surrounding the planet. Only the personal cruisers were able to slip through.¡±


    ¡°Okay but what about on the surface, there has to be Relocs alive there.¡±


    The old man peered at her, clearly hesitant to answer. ¡°Why are you so interested in that place.¡±


    She shrugged, ¡°I just heard some rumors on Kleth¡¯latho, seemed interesting.¡±


    Whether or not he believed the answer, Giantis seemed satisfied. ¡°Yes, Reloculan and its inhabitants live on, though to what quality of life that is, I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°They have dedicated their lives to ¡®the cause¡¯. The cause being the destruction of Hokku. They¡¯re radicalists, they believe their whole purpose in life is to kill as many Hokkonians as possible.¡±


    So that¡¯s why he didn¡¯t want to tell me. Too similar to my own agenda.


    Cyprus licked her lips, ¡°Do we have a contact there? If there¡¯s an established population why hasn¡¯t the union tried to- I don¡¯t know, assimilate them.¡±


    The old man picked at his wispy grey beard, ¡°well the truth is that we¡¯ve tried countless times. They simply have no desire to join us.¡±


    ¡°I find that hard to believe, they must be hurting for resources, there¡¯s so much we could offer them, we could even help them-¡°


    ¡°No.¡± Giantis interrupted, ¡°That is why they don¡¯t wish to join, because our terms have always remained the same, they must give up their fight.¡±


    ¡°But-¡°


    ¡°If Hokku discovered we allied with terrorists well,¡± He unleashed another body heaving cough into the crook of his elbow. ¡°It would not end well.¡±


    Cyprus frowned, ¡°well maybe I could try again, you¡¯ve always said I was a diplomatic prodigy.¡±


    The old man hesitated ¡°I¡¯ll give you the information to our contact. I¡¯m not sure if you¡¯ll have better luck than your predecessors but perhaps you¡¯ll figure something out we haven''t.¡±


    She gave the old man a warm smile and thanked him. With a cough infused goodbye, he signed off and the holographic image winked out. She leaned back in her chair with an exhausted sigh. She hated lying to him, but she had no choice. Hokku had to fall, and if it meant breaking his trust than it was worth it. By the time he found out what she was doing, it would be too late to stop it.


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    Besides, she needed a way to get Recli off of Terminus 14, any means possible.


    ¡°That sounded promising,¡± Recli¡¯s deep hissing voice came from behind her.


    Her heart leapt in her throat and she whirled around. He was standing in the room only a few feet behind her.


    ¡°Recli! Uh yes, yeah it sounds good.¡± She said quickly, ¡°I think we might have found a legitimate hideout for you.¡±


    The lizard grinned, ¡°I was talking about your meeting.¡±


    ¡°My meeting?¡± She furrowed her brow, ¡°The one with the Ordanian.¡±


    ¡°And the Hokkonian. That¡¯s a valuable opportunity.¡±


    Cyprus nodded and the apprehension grew, ¡°I suppose it is a pretty good opportunity, could give us insight into how the Hokkonians operate, on a political scale and a societal-¡°


    ¡°There will be HWNDs there.¡± Recli said, cutting her off, ¡°It¡¯s an opportunity to get some.¡±


    Cyprus stomach turned to stone, ¡°You want to steal their HWNDs? But it¡¯s a union sanctioned meeting, the moment we attack them the Ordanian will-¡°


    A guttural laugh ripped out Recli¡¯s throat, ¡°There will be no one left alive to report.¡±


    She gave him a frantic shake of her head, ¡°You don¡¯t understand, the Ordanians are cunning, they¡¯ll be watching closely. They have spies everywhere.¡±


    Recli grin vanished, but his fangs remained visible. ¡°You can¡¯t pass on this opportunity, human. This is our chance.¡±


    Cyprus raised her hands, ¡°I understand, but we can¡¯t just kill everyone there. The Hokkonians will know, and the Ordanians will raise the alarm before we even get off the planet. This is not the way we do it.¡±


    ¡°You think too much in favour of your government, little mammal. You said it yourself, they do not want to help us.¡±


    ¡°Not yet!¡± Cyprus blurted out, ¡°But I¡¯ll convince them, if we do this right they won¡¯t have a choice but to support it. But we need more time.¡±


    The massive lizard thought about her words with a tilt of his head. His overwhelming predatory aura threatened to consume her. She had to actively to fight to maintain her wits.


    A chime interrupted them both and she turned to see a notification flashing on her tablet. It was a message from her Grandad, the Reloculan contact.


    ¡°Duty calls.¡± She hated the emotional warble in her voice.


    The shadari said nothing and turned away, the scraping of his talons on the metal floor echoed down the corridor. Once she was sure he was out of earshot she slumped in her chair and allowed the tears to flow freely.


    ***


    The cockpit of her personal cruiser felt crowded with Recli¡¯s hulking figure behind her. Breathing was difficult, not because of claustrophobia but because she couldn¡¯t stop imaging Recli¡¯s claws piercing the back of her chair and skewering her torso. She was aptly aware of every miniscule movement that he made,  and deeply disturbed by his ability to remain still.


    ¡°Still no contact.¡± Recli growled.


    She readjusted her grip on the controls and checked the console for the thousandth time. The Reloculan contact responded to her message almost immediately and they planned to meet shortly after.


    It took them little over four hours to reach Reloculan, but their instructions were to wait for an escort once they entered orbit. That had been an hour ago.


    ¡°This is a waste of time, just land.¡±


    ¡°Their instructions were clear, if we wait just a little longer I¡¯m sure they¡¯ll be here. We have to do this properly if we want Reloculan as an ally.¡±


    Recli hissed and Cyprus half expected his massive fangs to penetrate her skull.


    ¡°Who is that?¡±


    Cyprus glanced up at the viewport and narrowed her eyes at a small shape in the distance. The fact that it had remained invisible to the long range scanners was not a good sign.


    The console chimed with a request for communication. She motioned for Recli to remain hidden and accepted the transmission.


    The grey-skinned face of a Hokkonian appeared, his expression one of pure contempt. ¡°Greetings, Union cruiser, You¡¯re speaking with Commander Wraitharos, leader of HWND division four. What is your business here?¡±


    Oh great.


    Cyprus wiped sweaty palms on her legs and cleared her throat. ¡°Good to meet you Commander, my name is Cyprus Atik, captain of Terminus 14 and council representive of the outer layers. We¡¯re here on Union sanctioned business.¡±


    The Hokkonian frowned, ¡°What sort of business could the Union possible have with terrorists?¡±


    Cyprus forced her voice to remain neutral, ¡°I¡¯m afraid that the nature of my business is my own. The Union does not recognize Reloculan as a terrorist organization. We have several contacts who do not claim allegiance to those you wage war with.¡±


    The captain scoffed, ¡°A humanitarian mission then?¡±


    ¡°Like I said Commander, my business is my own.¡± She gave him a sweet smile.


    After a few seconds of mutual glaring, the Hokkonian snorted and shook his head, ¡°Safe travels Councilwoman, we¡¯ll be sure to add our records of your arrival on Reloculan so we can follow up and¡­ ensure of your success in your humanitarian aid. The Sovereignty cares for the well being of all people within Dromedar.¡±


    With that he closed the communication and his face disappeared. The Hokkonian ships continued with their patrol, flying a little too close as they shot past.


    ¡°Should have shot them down.¡± Recli growled.


    For once Cyprus found her self agreeing with the alien.


    Another chime sounded and the face of the Reloculan contact appeared. He was reptilian like Recli, although his head was much smaller. He reminded her of the garden snakes she used to catch back home on Gasaan.


    ¡°Greetings Councilwoman.¡± He spoke with surprising sophistication, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for keeping you waiting, we had to ensure your intention were pure and devoid of any Hokkonian influence.¡±


    ¡°You were listening?¡±


    The reptile dipped his head with a look of discomfort, ¡°Again I apologize, we can never be too safe.¡±


    ¡°I understand, uh¡­¡±


    ¡°Geldhern, Councilwoman. You can call me Geld.¡±


    She smiled, ¡°A pleasure to meet you Geld, I trust your eavesdropping proved we¡¯re not allies with the Hokkonians?¡±


    The snake flicked out a forked tongue, ¡°An escort is already on their way, we look forward to sitting down with you.¡±


    ¡°Likewise.¡±


    On cue, three Reloculan ships appeared through the atmospheres veil of clouds. They slithered through the air like giant mechanical snakes, a crude imitation of the piloting biologicals. The snake-like ships were scuffed and covered in patches of various sizes. The vessels were certainly not in any condition to greet dignitaries from another nation.


    ¡°Finally.¡± Recli said.


    She could feel his claws gripping the headrest of her chair. The faint tearing of fabric as he ripped into the cushion was all she could hear.


    Cyprus said nothing and followed the Reloculan escort down onto the sand filled planet.

 Chapter 15 - Jericho

    Psychosomatic Output: 300 Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    Jericho rubbed his neck where Arthros hand had just been. His heart was racing from the unexpected encounter and his fingers trembled. Arthros really was insane, if he was that upset. Jericho was a good fighter but he wasn¡¯t some sort of freak.


    He groaned and put his head in his hands. When would the head trauma end? How many more blows to the head could he take before his brain had the consistency of mashed potatoes.


    Graito had moved with a supernatural speed his eyes couldn¡¯t even register, and he was supposed to fight that? What even was that.


    He picked himself up off the floor and noticed for the first time two Hokkonians standing by the door. He jumped with a shout of surprise.


    Have they been there this whole time? His face burned from embarrassment. Had they seen what Arthros did to him?


    The Hokkonians were identical in every way, and significantly shorter than any other Hokkonian he had seen before. Though they still loomed a few feet over his head. Yet what they lacked in height they made up in dense muscle. Arms and legs bulged underneath skin tight uniforms. The broadness of their shoulders would have rivaled the great apes he used to read stories about. Yet despite their impressive build, they were staring at him with a child-like curiosity and nervousness.


    ¡°He¡¯s awake, Scor,¡± the one on the right said.


    ¡°Obviously Flux, the Commander was just in here dumb ass.¡± The one on the left said.


    ¡°You¡¯re the dumb ass, dumb ass.¡±


    ¡°Real original come back.¡±


    Jericho blinked hard, maybe he was imagining things, Graito really rang his bell.


    ¡°Heard you tried to fight Graito,¡± Flux said.


    ¡°What a mistake that was!¡± Scor laughed.


    ¡°I think he knows that dumb ass.¡±


    They even spoke the same, it was impossible to discern a difference in the sound of their voices.


    ¡°You could always fight us,¡± Flux grinned.


    Scor gave a solemn nod ¡°not that it would be a fair match.¡±


    ¡°But it would be a good test for a Pilot, our fights are often unfair,¡± Flux pointed out.


    Scor broke into a smile, and glanced at his partner. ¡°For our enemies.¡±


    Flux was a perfect mirror of his companion. ¡°Stay out of my brain.


    They headbutt eachother and broke into a harmony of laughter. The fresh wave of pain was evidence enough that he wasn¡¯t dreaming. Though he would be concerned with himself if he had somehow manifested the image before him.


    He watched as the two ceased their laughter at the same time and turned to look at him, an expectant look on their faces as they spoke in unison. ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°Uh, well what?¡± Jericho said.


    Scor and Flux shared a look, ¡°Do you want to fight us or not?¡±


    ¡°I, uh, I mean no why would I fight you guys. I don¡¯t even know who you are.¡±


    Scor tapped the tips of his teeth together, ¡°Arthros didn¡¯t mention us?¡±


    Flux flicked his teeth with the tip of his tongue, ¡°I¡¯m sure he would have said something about us.¡±


    ¡°Well we did miss his welcome,¡± Scor whispered.


    ¡°We were sparring though.¡±


    ¡°I know that dumb ass-¡°


    ¡°Arthros did mention something about you guys!¡± Jericho hurried in, unwilling to sit through another argument between the two. ¡°Scor and Fluxor?¡±


    ¡°So, you do know who we are,¡± Scor looked annoyed.


    ¡°I go by Flux, we¡¯re the single-syllable bros.¡±


    ¡°I told you not to call us that.¡±


    Flux snorted, ¡°Look dumb-¡±


    ¡°Where am I?¡± Jericho interjected.


    He risked a look away from the two aliens. He was in a moderately large room. Probably pretty small for the average Hokkonian body, but it still looked state of the art. The walls were dark grey and bare, with no windows. Besides his hammock, the only other furniture was a desk standing against the far wall.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know you¡¯re in your room?¡± Flux looked concerned.


    ¡°Do humans often forget what their own room looks like?¡± Scor hid a grin.


    Jericho closed his eyes and sat back down in his hammock, the relief he felt with his lids closed was instantaneous.


    ¡°Is he sleeping again?¡±


    ¡°No Flux, you dumbass, he¡¯s ignoring us.¡±


    A finger touched his forehead and his heart nearly stopped. Weren¡¯t the twins standing by the doorway? His eyes shot open to reveal two cheerful faces peering down at him. Somehow the hokkonians had crossed the room in an instant.


    They¡¯re just as fast as Graito, maybe even faster.


    ¡°I¡¯m ¨C I¡¯m not ignoring you,¡± Jericho stammered, ¡°My head just feels like its splitting apart, it¡¯s not so bad when I close my eyes.¡±


    The Hokkonian twins looked at each other and nodded knowingly, they proceeded to give him gentle head pats.


    Jericho tried not to flinch when they touched him. They seemed kind enough, but after Arthros bizarre outburst he couldn¡¯t be too careful around any grey-skinned aliens.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never met a human who wasn¡¯t a slave before,¡± Flux exited Jericho¡¯s personal space and stood up to his full height. Scor followed suit and soon both of them were stretching their backs as they stood over top of him.


    ¡°And Jericho is more than that, he¡¯s supposed to be a Pilot.¡± Scor said, playfully nudging his brother.


    They both giggled, but Jericho sensed it wasn¡¯t the same mocking chuckle as the others. They really just seemed to enjoy each other¡¯s company and anything relatively amusing.


    ¡°I will be a Pilot.¡± Jericho corrected.


    ¡°Oh, I have no doubt about that.¡± Flux said, his tone shifting to serious. That was a refreshing change of opinion. He had half-expected another punch in the face, or at least a snark about his size or race.


    ¡°If Arthros says you¡¯ll be one then you¡¯ll be one, it¡¯s as simple as that,¡± Scor confirmed.


    ¡°Wait, really?¡±


    The Hokkonian brothers shrugged in unison, and flux bent down slightly and pointed at Scor. ¡°Twins are extremely rare.¡±


    ¡°Birth Defects they say.¡± Scor muttered.


    Flux snorted, ¡°yet here we are.¡±


    Scor smiled, ¡°My Synaptic Rank is four¡±


    ¡°Same with me.¡± Flux said.


    ¡°But when we fight together, our Synaptic Rank is ten.¡± Scor puffed out his chest.


    ¡°Is that good? Obviously I know ten is better than four, but is ten considered impressive?¡± Jericho asked.


    They both gave him an incredulous look, ¡°Rank ten is the best, it doesn¡¯t get better.¡±


    Jericho frowned, he was almost certain Arthros had made a comment about being ¡®unbound.¡¯ If that was Arthros¡¯ Synaptic Rank, it had to be best.


    ¡°What about an unbound rank?¡±


    They froze and the look on their faces was enough to sink his heart. Did he say the wrong thing?


    ¡°Where did you hear that? Did Arthros tell you?¡± Scor whispered.


    Jericho sighed and shook his head. He was too tired to make up a lie. ¡°He mentioned it once and I heard him call himself that. I don¡¯t know, maybe I misheard.¡±


    Instincts warned him against sharing his own Synaptic Rank. If Arthros wanted everyone to know, he would have said something when they landed.


    Flux sighed, ¡°Alright so-¡±


    ¡°Shut up! You know Arthros doesn¡¯t like talking about it!¡±


    ¡°Well obviously it¡¯s not a secret anymore, Jericho should know!¡± Flux snapped.


    Scor growled something unintelligible and folded his arms.


    Flux scratched at the spines on his scalp as he thought about his next choice of words,¡°We don¡¯t know where the term came from, but we do know that there has only been two Synaptic Rank unbounds, ever.¡±


    ¡°Officially, there could be others.¡± Scor cut in.


    Stolen story; please report.


    Flux nodded, ¡°Technically, yes we can¡¯t scan everyone in the universe. Statistically there are more. Regardless, if you¡¯re an unbound, that means your pysmetra is unreadable.¡±


    Jericho furrowed his brow, ¡°What¡¯s pysmetra?¡±


    Scor palmed his face in dramatic fashion, ¡°Do you know anything?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s becoming increasingly clear that I really don¡¯t.¡±


    The two brothers started to laugh. It was an infectious sound and Jericho found himself joining in. It felt good, like exercising an unused muscle.


    ¡°Okay, so Pysmetra is the brainpower while Somata is the body power, they¡¯re both put together to calculate your psychosomatic output.¡± Scor said.


    ¡°That makes sense, Arthros mentioned that output when we first met.¡± Jericho said.


    ¡°Good, and that''s what your Synaptic Rank is based on. The higher the total output, the higher the rank, with ten being the maximum. It¡¯s really not that complicated.¡± Flux nodded.


    ¡°Then where does ¡®unbound¡¯ fall on that scale.¡±


    The twins glanced at each other, ¡°unbound isn¡¯t a Synaptic Rank.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just what Arthros calls it, what he¡¯s really saying is that he doesn¡¯t have one.¡± Scor said simply.


    Jericho didn¡¯t know what to say. He was trying to piece the information together but his headache was making that difficult.


    ¡°How?¡±


    The twins mirrored each other as they shared another look, shrugged, and spoke, ¡°We don¡¯t know.¡±


    He was about to reply, but his stomach interjected with a rumbling protest. When was the last time he ate something? Kleth¡¯altho? Arthros said he had given him something to fill his belly when he was unconscious, but that wasn¡¯t the same. He wanted to actually chew on something.


    ¡°Hungry?¡± Flux asked with a grin.


    Jericho nodded, ¡°I¡¯m starving actually.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry too,¡± Scor said eagerly, ¡°Let¡¯s go to the cafeteria.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re always hungry!¡± Flux snorted.


    ¡°As if you¡¯re not.¡± Scor shot back.


    They begin to wrestle. Jericho watched them go at while he stood up and stretched. His muscles still ached from their abuse, but at least his headache was starting to subside. He was surprised to discover his broken bones no longer hurt, whatever Arthros had given him during the trip really did the trick.


    ¡°Guys, are we going?¡±


    The twins froze mid headlock. Jericho couldn¡¯t tell them apart, but he guess that it was Scor who was winning.


    ¡°Just waiting for you.¡± Flux grunted.


    They hurried out of the door. Jericho paused briefly to check his reflection in the mirror by the door. The form fitting blue and gold uniform looked good on him. Short sleeves and durable yet flexible pants. It was nicer than anything he had ever worn before. The sight alone was enough to turn his spirits and ran after the twins with a grin on his face.


    The three of them walked a brisk pace through the halls. The brothers tried their best to to give him a proper tour, but between the arguments, laughter, and spontaneous wrestling Jericho barely understood half of what they tried to tell him.


    What he did put together was that every division had its own dorm. A facility equipped with everything a pilot might need, from recreational activities to state of the art training simulations. Every dorm was connected by the hangars, but apart from that massive port there was no other way to get into another dorm. That was for the best, it kept the aliens safe and allowed them to live and train free of any distractions.


    The twins claimed it got a little suffocating to be kept in the facility all the time, but Jericho had a hard time believing that. The dorm was massive, and comprised of an endless network of brightly lit corridors.


    They eventually reached the cafeteria, not before passing by the arena and the doors to the engineer bay. The cafeteria was quite large and filled to the brim with more tables than necessary. Along the opposite wall was the counter, where steam and smoke drifted lazily towards them bringing an aroma of spiced meat. Jericho¡¯s stomach rumbled again and he could feel his mouth filling with saliva.


    ¡°Ah my favorite place.¡± One of the twins said.


    ¡°I thought you said it was the arena.¡± The other said with a nudge.


    ¡°Second favorite then.¡±


    Jericho pushed past them and walked right up the counter, almost in a trance. The food smelled so good he felt like he could float. Behind the counter was an older male Hokkonian, with a bright smile and a filthy apron that hung down the length of his torso. He wore nothing else on his upper body, but his spines stood erect on every inch of his body.


    So those spines aren¡¯t just on their heads and neck, but everywhere?


    Jericho shuddered at the thought of embracing one, it would be like cuddling a cactus. An image of Randrea floated into his mind, if she kept her spines flattened¡­


    The shirtless chef turned to look at him and his smile dropped. ¡°What are you doing here? I didn¡¯t request the help.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s cheeks coloured and the twins hurried to intervene.


    ¡°He¡¯s with us, Scrai,¡± Flux said quickly, placing a hand on Jericho¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Whatever he wants.¡±


    The Hokkonian snorted, shook his head, and gestured towards the screens above the counter. The day¡¯s menu was written in strange runes completely different to the Universal¡¯s alphabet that Jericho was used to. He found it strange that the aliens spoke Universal but wrote in a completely different language.


    Flux leaned close, ¡°Best to go along with it, buddy, I have a feeling Arthros isn¡¯t ready to reveal who you are just yet.¡±


    The aliens hot breath washed over the back of his neck and he itched irritibly. Flux was probably right. Doesn¡¯t mean he had to like it.


    The three of them grabbed their food, Jericho let the twins order for them, and they ate feverishly. The brothers consumed twice as much food as he did, and even started to pick away at the scraps still on his plate. The meal was certainly delicious, but the spices were strange and it made the meat tingle as he chewed.


    ¡°So if Arthros¡¯ doesn¡¯t have a Synaptic Rank that doesn¡¯t mean being unbound is necessarily the best.¡±


    Scor wiped the grease from the corner of his mouth, ¡°Theoretically you¡¯re right, the ¡®unbound¡¯ part refers to his Pysmetra, his is unreadable. Which means he doesn¡¯t have a limiting score to bottleneck his somata score.


    Flux burped, ¡°And if his somata can grow indefinitely along a limitless pysmetra¡­ ¡±


    Arthros interest in him became clear. If it was true, then that meant he had the potential to surpass all of them. Jericho felt a strange twinge of excitement and apprehension at the epiphany.


    ¡°Then his psychosomatic output could be endless.¡± Jericho finished.


    ¡°Theortetically!¡± Scor nodded, ¡°I think his current output sits around 10,000 Bio-units though we¡¯re convinced he¡¯s regulating that score to keep his real strength hidden.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s way too clean of a number.¡± Flux scoffed.


    ¡°Wait how do you guys know his scores.¡±


    Scor held up a hand, on his forefinger was a metal ring, ¡°With this, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll get one soon enough. It¡¯s basically a tangible connection to your AI, and we use it to communicate with one another.¡±


    ¡°Plus there are some fun games on there.¡± Flux grinned.


    Scor jabbed his brother in the ribs.


    The ring flashed with a green light, same with the ring on Flux¡¯s finger. The twins seemed surprised and they shared a look.


    ¡°Were being summoned to the arena.¡±


    Jericho eyes widened, ¡°By Arthros? What for.¡±


    The two shared a sly grin, ¡°hopefully you didn¡¯t eat too much.¡±


    ***


    They walked briskly down the hall to the arena, and Jericho tried to ignore uncomfortable sloshing of food and drink in his stomach. He silently begged for this not to be a training session, but the way the twins practically skipped to the heavy double doors he didn¡¯t have high hopes.


    The arena was a huge domed-shaped room with bright lights that shone down from the ceiling. The floor was made of a rubbery material, soft enough that it wouldn¡¯t cause any serious injuries but hard enough to gain stable footing.


    The other pilots stood in a line watching them approach. Arthros at the center, hands clasped behind his back. On the mat in front of them was a large painted ring, with a small circle in the center.


    ¡°Hey Commander!¡± Scor said, emphatically waving his entire arm.


    ¡°We were just showing Jericho around,¡± Flux said, ¡°We were hungry so we went to the caf.¡±


    ¡°When are you not,¡± Randrea smirked.


    Arthros nodded and motioned to the small circle in the middle, ¡°That¡¯s alright, Jericho please stand in here.¡±


    Jericho did as he was told, nervously dipping his head to the other pilots. He strode to the middle, hyper aware of himself to the point where he was convinced he was walking with the grace of a foal.


    Everyone¡¯s here, watching me. I shouldn¡¯t have eaten so much.


    ¡°Unfortunately you¡¯re training has to start immediately.¡± His voice was cold, but his eyes were devoid of their anger from earlier, ¡°The other pilots are here to observe your first session, that is a tradition for the eighth division, just ignore them.¡±


    Jericho nodded but he wasn¡¯t sure it was possible. From Randrea¡¯s playful smirk to the burning hatred in Graito eyes he was anything but focused.


    Just breathe, they¡¯re spectators, nothing more. Preforming in front of crowd isn¡¯t anything new.


    ¡°What exactly will I be doing?¡±


    Arthros face twitched, ¡°you need to start from the beginning, a physio-neurological test.¡±


    Hadn¡¯t he already passed the test on the ship? An excited murmur swept through the spectators. Graito¡¯s lips twisted into a sinister smile.


    ¡°To pilot a HWND you must learn to master the neurological requirements along with the physical, and understand how the two coincide. ¡° He gave Randrea a nod, ¡°You will be piloting the greatest weapon ever created, but if you cannot control it then you are useless.¡±


    Randrea strode over to Arthros and handed him a fragile looking metal contraption. It was all wires, and twisted into a crude manipulation of a halved sphere.


    Jericho narrowed his eyes, ¡°what is that?¡±


    The Commander walked over, caressing the contraption in his massive hands. He carefully lifted it and placed it on Jericho¡¯s head. After some manipulation, the wires sat snug around his skull. The thing was weightless, like he was wearing air.


    Arthros ignored his question, ¡°Heavily Weaponized Neural Dragoon. So powerful and mentally demanding that it would be impossible to pilot on your own. My people, being the pompous idiots that they are, decided nothing was unachievable and sentenced countless poor souls to brain liquifying death.¡±


    Jericho swallowed at the horrifying thought. The other Pilots looked grim.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t long until the Hokkonian engineers came up with an idea, a means to share the load so to speak. An invisible and weightless co-pilot that could sit inside the HWND along with its pilot.¡± Arthros dipped his head at Jericho, ¡°You must learn to co-exist within a crowded mind, and still continue to function on a level that far exceeds the normal. That device on your head will simulate a fraction of the pressure that a normal HWND would exert.


    Jericho itched absentmindedly at the device. He had almost forgotten about the AI sleeping in his brain. He gave Arthros a serious nod, ¡°So what do you want me to do.


    Arthros blinked, ¡°I want you to stand up.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already standing-¡°


    Without warning the device activated and an immediate pressure was felt all around his head. He felt like his eyes and the back of his head were going to simultaneously explode, and within a matter of seconds he lost vision completely. He sagged to his knees and would have screamed but he found he couldn¡¯t talk, he couldn¡¯t do anything except writhe on the floor. His mind blanked and his animalistic instincts took over, he clawed on the floor like a rabid beast and bucked his hips as violently as possible, desperation filling every corner of his mind. Just as he felt himself start to slip into a comforting nothingness the pressure lifted completely.


    As quickly as it came it was gone, and aside from a dull throb in the back of his eyes he was fine. His arms and legs trembled as he pushed himself back up to his feet. The other pilots howled in laughter, some of them doubled over.


    Randrea only stared, an unreadable expression on her face. He gritted his teeth and felt his face redden. At this feet was the wire crown.


    What happened?¡± He gave himself a careful examination.


    Arthros tilted his head, ¡°Exactly what I cautioned would happen, were you not listening.¡±


    Jericho fumed, ¡°I listened to every word, but why didn¡¯t you warn me you were turning it on!¡±


    The Hokkonian¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°Why would I?¡±


    There was no use arguing, Jericho grunted and scooped up the neural device.


    ¡°You¡¯re frustrated.¡± Arthros commented.


    Jericho made a line with his lips and shoved the device back on his head, despite the way his stomach flipped as he did so. ¡°I¡¯m frustrated because I lost.¡±


    ¡°Are you dead?¡±


    Jericho tongued his split lip and tasted blood, ¡°No.¡±


    Arthros clacked the tips of his teeth together, ¡°Then you haven''t lost.¡± He motioned at his head, ¡°you were able to remove the device on your own.¡±


    Jericho brushed his fingers across the delicate wiring, ¡°you didn¡¯t stop it?¡±


    Arthros shook his head.


    He looked at Arthros with a newfound horror, the Commander was facilitating his training but he was a far cry from a safety net. If that torment had gone on any longer¡­ He shuddered at the thought.


    ¡°Now,¡± Arthros said, a brief glint of anger in his eyes, ¡°use your brain this time.¡±


    Fear gripped his heart and he started to panic, ¡°wait what if I can¡¯t-¡±


    The pressure mounted before he could finish his sentence and it immediately brought him to his knees and then face first onto the training floor. This time the pain didn¡¯t go away and he blacked out entirely.

 Chapter 16 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    Arthros watched with disgust at Jericho writhing on the floor. He could tell by the way his movements started to slow that he had fully lost consciousness. A few more seconds and his brain would be beyond repair. With a grunt of frustration he strode over to the human and snatched the crown from his head. Immediately the thrashing stopped, and he lay as still as a corpse.


    Was he gone?


    ¡°Commander,¡± Randrea said quietly.


    He turned to the pilots and the saw the look of shock on all their faces. He had never intervened before, if a pilot was incapable of handling the pressure, then they deserved to die on the training mat.


    He said nothing and stalked away. They wouldn''t understand his motives, and he didn¡¯t know how to explain it to them. Jericho had to live a little longer.


    ¡°Make sure he doesn¡¯t die,¡± He barked at the others.


    There was a collective murmur of obedience as he stalked out of the arena. He knew what they were thinking, and he didn¡¯t have the patience to deal with it right now. He needed a moment to get away, he needed some time to himself.


    It hadn¡¯t taken long for his home world to put a damper on his spirits. If one could call the sudden uncontrollable spiral from happiness to downright despair a ¡®damper.¡¯


    From the moment he received new orders from the Admiral per his arrival, he knew that his tenure on Hokku would not be pleasant. But what had he really expected? To be received by his people with open arms and a forgiving smile? He had disobeyed a direct order, and practically spat in the high table¡¯s face.


    As he entered his own room he sat heavily in front of the holo-computer, ignoring his inner pleas for the comfort of his hammock and the much-needed rejuvenation that sleep would provide.


    No, that would be too convenient, he had too much to think about and he hadn¡¯t tormented himself enough with problems out of his control. He mentally woke up Zero and allowed her access to the Holo computer.


    ¡°Well you let me sleep longer than expected.¡± Zero chimed. The holo computer lighting up in rhythm with her voice.


    ¡°You would have only made things worse.¡± He grumbled.


    ¡°What did the Admiral say?¡±


    Arthros sighed and leaned back in the chair, he scrubbed his face with his hands stared up into the ceiling.


    ¡°She warned me that she can longer defend my actions against the Sovereignty, and if I disobey her orders again she¡¯ll strip my rank and my HWND.¡±


    Zero thought about the words and then spoke in a disdainful tone, ¡°that doesn¡¯t sound like the Admiral.¡±


    Arthros crossed his arms and tapped the tips of his teeth together, ¡°No, something or someone else is squeezing her.¡±


    ¡°I did warn you against going to Kleth¡¯altho.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t start Zero, you know I had to go.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have to do anything. You¡¯re Arthros One, legendary Pilot. You should be untouchable. You spent up all your goodwill when you started bringing in aliens.¡±


    Arthros snarled at the computer and shot to his feet, ¡°they¡¯re not aliens, they¡¯re pilots.¡±


    Zero sounded stiff, ¡°Not by the Sovereignty¡¯s standards.¡±


    He was starting to regret waking her up, but he knew better than to blame her programming. It was The Sovereignty who was at fault. The high families were the living embodiment of ignorance. It was his pilots that produced the best numbers, the aliens.


    He shut down the holo computer and stormed out the door, suddenly the idea of rest was not so appealing. He needed to be anywhere but here, lest another unwanted voice came prying.


    ¡°What about Jericho?¡± Zero¡¯s voice came from inside his mind.


    Arthros stormed down the corridor and towards the elevator that would take him up into the city, easier to blend in up there.


    ¡°Possibly a corpse,¡± He clenched his hand subconsciously, remembering how frail Jericho¡¯s neck had felt between his grasp.


    ¡°You attacked him, why?¡±


    Arthros let out an exasperated sigh as he waited for the elevator doors to open, ¡°I didn¡¯t attack him, it was a warning.¡± The elevator doors folded out of view and he stepped in, thankful for its emptiness. ¡°He embarrassed himself, he lost a fight to Graito.¡±


    ¡°Graito, the Synaptic Rank eight? Graito the Myrd, and your best fighter?¡±


    Arthros rolled his eyes, her tone remained even but the message was loud and clear.


    ¡°There is something about that human that no one but myself can seem to see, and the day I fail to trust my instincts is the day I fail myself.¡± He swiped a hand across his head, feeling the faint prickle of the flattened spines on his palm. ¡°I don¡¯t know what I should expect from him, but certainly more than what he has shown.¡±


    He stood in silence for a moment as the elevator shot its way up to the city surface. Whether he liked it or not, Zero was right. It was time he surrendered himself to the duties and responsibilities of a Commander, if not for his own sake then for the sake of his pilots. He would never allow them to be treated as foreigners again, as long as he had any shred of authority amongst the Navy.


    Though it seemed he was walking a fine line between militant political power and the mind-numbing plainness of a civilian. Though the loss of his HWND would certainly mean the loss of his life, at his own hands.


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    ¡°Then allow him to train, and perhaps he will live up to your standards. Hope may be beyond my comprehension but I will allow myself the benefit of the doubt that I truly do hope your efforts do not end up in failure and disappointment.¡±


    That got a chuckle out of him, and he smiled at his AI, she did seem to have a talent for saying the right things. That was probably because she existed within the constraints of his own mind. She was saying what he needed to hear.


    ¡°Jericho is my last project Zero, I¡¯m ready to bow down to the Sovereignty if that is what it will take to remain a pilot and soar the skies with you.¡±


    ¡°I am pleased to hear you speak of it, and I am perhaps the only one who can acknowledge how hard of a task that will be for you. But it will be worth it.¡±


    He licked the tips of his teeth, ¡°try not to sound too excited.¡±


    The elevator came to a stop and dinged. The doors folded out of view to reveal the last person he wanted to see right now.


    ¡°Arthros! Admiral Zludikai exclaimed, ¡°Just the person I was looking for.¡±


    He gave her a pained look, ¡°Admiral, I was just about to take a stroll and clear my mind.¡±


    She gave him a cool look, ¡°Zero causing trouble again?¡±


    He felt Zero¡¯s synthetic anger broiling as she spoke, ¡°I¡¯m going offline.¡±


    Her presence winked out and he suppressed a sigh. Despite her constant nagging for obedience and protocol, she suffered a debilitating bout of jealousy every time Zludikai spoke. Arthros still wasn¡¯t sure how that was even possible, she was a computer after all.


    Zludikai didn''t miss a beat, ¡°remember when I said you could debrief me on your encounter along the border later? Well that time is now.¡±


    He flashed her a fake smile, ¡°Great, let¡¯s get this over with. The invader-¡°


    The admiral held up a hand and his smile withered. ¡°Not here, you¡¯re going to be telling it to the entire high table. They want to hear it directly from you.¡±


    ¡°Oh you¡¯ve got to be kidding me. Those bug-eyed idiots-¡°


    ¡°You said you would behave.¡± She gave him a pointed look and crossed her arms.


    It was a ¡®don¡¯t test me¡¯ sort of look and it did the trick. Arthros shut his mouth.


    ¡°Good,¡± She said with a curt nod, ¡°We¡¯ll head straight there.¡±


    She pressed the highest button on the elevator. It would take them straight to the upper levels, where the Cathedral existed.


    Arthros lip curled at the thought of going back to that palace. He¡¯d rather spend a month on Kleth¡¯altho then stand four seconds in front of the high table. The high families seated on a platform strategically raised several feet off the ground. That was the only way any of those spineless fools could bear to look at them.


    As if they had any real power over him.


    What he would give to put them in the training arena with the HWND simulator snug on their heads. Sometimes he daydreamed that scenario, watching them crumple to their knees, frothing at the mouth, clawing at the air.


    The elevator chimed and the doors lid open. The upper levels stared back at them, a pristine collection of ornate buildings lined the roads. It was as densely packed here as it was on the main level. Each building had an acre of land encircling it, and intentional move that helped accentuate the beauty and originality in each design.


    The upper level was open to the public, but few actually traveled here. Who wanted a constant reminder that they weren¡¯t good enough? To live in the shadow of another simply was not the Hokkonian way. Better to pretend it didn¡¯t exist at all. As a result the upper level was a ghost town, save for the handful of maintenance crews forced to be there.


    Arthros spat on the floor, wrinkling his nose at artificial air. Purposely scented with the simple aroma of garden flowers.


    ¡°Your future home,¡± The Admiral said, ¡°If you behave.¡±


    He shot her nauseated look, ¡°Is that supposed to help me.¡±


    She rolled her eyes, ¡°My future home, if you behave.¡±


    ¡°I feel sorry for you.¡±


    They walked in silence the rest of the way, shadowed by the towering buildings. It was hard to believe that even half of them were filled. There was hardly anyone in the streets for that to make sense. Those who lived here kept to themselves, too self absorbed in their work or whatever else kept them busy to actually enjoy the so called paradise they labored to achieve.


    He wondered if the other major cities were the same. Hokku was dying, and the population of Hokkonians was waning. If it wasn¡¯t for their lifespan, Hokkonians would have driven themselves extinct by now. No one wanted to make connections, no one cared enough about another person to see the value in companionship. A planet full of narcissists. It made him sick.


    ¡°There it is,¡± The admiral muttered, ¡°The cathedral.¡±


    Arthros grunted, and stared at the smooth interlocking stones at his feet. He didn¡¯t want to give the high table the satisfaction of his admiration. He refused to acknowledge the beauty of the building.


    Their footsteps echoed loudly in the vast emptiness of the cathedral hall. The palace was just as vacant as the city though the low-toned muttering of the high table could be heard ahead. Arthros mentally prepared himself as they approached.


    The table was more like a countertop, raised several feet off the ground on a platform. Seven Hokkonians sat behind it, each in a respective throne. Long flowing purple robes draped across their shoulders, and tall ornate hats protruded from their heads. They were old, but it didn¡¯t show in their faces, their skin was smooth and free of wrinkles. Their muttering stopped instantly as he and the Admiral approached.


    ¡°Admiral Zludikai,¡± The middle said with smile, ¡°Commander Arthros,¡± his smile dropped.


    ¡°Governors.¡± Zludikai dipped her head respectively, ¡°I hope the high table is well, It¡¯s been a while since we¡¯ve met on such formal terms.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well, we figured you deserved an excuse to travel to the upper layer,¡± The middle swept his arm across the room, ¡°To see the cathedral.¡±


    Arthros bit back the snarky reply that bubbled in his throat.


    ¡°It is beautiful,¡± The Admiral said with a diplomatic smile and a quick glance around. ¡°Though I¡¯m sure you don¡¯t intend to waste our time with pleasantries, we are quite busy with military concerns.¡±


    Atta girl Zudikai.


    The Governor frowned, a look shared by the rest of the table. ¡°We would like a report on the intrusion in sector 4, a matter so grave concerns the entire Sovereignty, not just the Navy.¡±


    Zludikai nodded, ¡°I agree entirely, Governor. I¡¯m pleased to hear you say so. Ignorance is like blindness, and not as easy to overcome.¡±


    The old Navy platitude rang clear in Arthros head, he knew it was for him. A reminder of his promise to behave. Don¡¯t be ignorant of the details.


    ¡°Governers,¡± Arthros said projecting his voice loudly, ¡°A pleasure to see you all again, I¡¯ll begin my debrief immediately.¡±


    He launched into the details without hesitation. Starting from the message he had received from Zludikai, all the way to the final words shared with the Councilwoman at Terminus 14. He left out the fact that he was actually on Kleth¡¯altho, that would open him to more questions than he knew how to answer.


    Within the realm of good behavior that is.


    He made sure to highlight the destruction of the HWNDs, and the exact conversation he had with the human. Stressing the fact that she refused passage. When he was finished, the high table was sharing looks, clearly disconcerted.


    ¡°This is¡­ concerning information.¡± The middle spoke. ¡°We knew there were lives lost, but to the extent of the destruction you describe there are far less explanations.¡±


    ¡°There are no explanations,¡± Arthros said with a shake of his head, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anything like it, Raiders didn¡¯t do it¡­ the Reloculans? Absolutely not.¡±


    he high table shared another round of glances, there was something they weren¡¯t sharing. The admiral too, judging by her uncharacteristic silence.


    ¡°Unless, there is an explanation?¡±


    One of the Governors cleared his throat, he looked identical to everyone else. ¡°Several months ago we received a report from Division four, their HWNDs encountered a ship along the perimeter, a scout ship.¡±


    Arthros narrowed his eyes, ¡°That isn¡¯t anything new, foreigners try to cross the border all of the time.¡±


    The Governor paused, ¡°They came from the Storm.¡±

 Chapter 17 - Arthros

    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    The throne room became so quiet Arthros could hear the individual beat of his heart. The ghost of a smile touched his lips, they couldn¡¯t be serious. He glanced at his companion, her tight lipped frown made his jaw go slack. They couldn''t be serious, the Storm couldn''t be crossed.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible.¡±


    The high table was silent, some looked grim, while others seemed disappointed.


    ¡°Are you saying the invader came from the Storm?¡±


    The Admiral sighed, ¡°it¡¯s the most likely explanation, the breach happened almost exactly in the same spot the scout ship was destroyed. We would have been alerted had they crossed the perimeter anywhere else. Even if they had managed to slip through undetected, they would have been spotted long before reaching the breach point.¡±


    The Sovereignty had been trying to navigate the Storm long before he was born, before the crusade, before the colonization of the moons. The smile returned, an uncharacteristic smirk. The fact that another civilization managed to traverse the impenetrable phenomenon must be driving them insane. Still, it just couldn¡¯t be possible.


    ¡°You all sound insane, but I¡¯ll play along. If this so-called invader did manage to cross, who are they? My concern isn¡¯t their tech, it¡¯s the fact they killed two of our pilots.¡±


    Again, the high table muttered together, disgruntled whispers and mumbled curses. Most likely debating sharing more information, especially to him.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know,¡± The middle one said finally.


    Judging by the dejected tone of his voice, he was telling the truth.


    ¡°Well, you must have some sort of idea,¡± Arthros said, hairless eyebrows raising. ¡°What good are the scouts you send beyond the territories if you don¡¯t get any information.¡±


    The Admiral hissed a warning, and a few Governors gasped. He tried not to roll his eyes.


    ¡°You forget your place, Commander, you know the rules, no one is allowed beyond Dromedar. Our information comes from foreign interrogation alone.¡±


    Arthros scoffed, ¡°The time for these sorts of games is over, two pilots are dead, their HWNDs obliterated. Our hold on this star system is slipping.¡± He glared at them and ignored the Admiral¡¯s sharp jab into his ribs, ¡°It¡¯s a stupid rule anyways, we should know what¡¯s going on out there, that¡¯s called gathering good intel.¡±


    The high table erupted into more grumbling whispers, and the Governor addressing them sputtered in outrage. Only a few words articulated well enough for Arthros to understand. Insubordinate and arrogant among others. He ignored them and the Admiral¡¯s enraged hissing in his ear. He just stood, waiting patiently for it to subside so he could get more answers.


    He sensed he was nearing their breaking point, if he pushed it any further maybe then he would face real consequences. A lifetime of boundary pushing made him quite good at sensing when to stop.


    ¡°We have a few ideas,¡± The Governor said finally, ¡°There have been¡­ concerning rumors.¡±


    Arthros waited expectantly, they seemed hesitant to continue. Another elbow jabbed into his ribs, hard enough to elicit a response. He shot a withering glare at her and cleared his throat.


    ¡°Forgive me Governors, I¡¯m just passionate about protecting Dromedary. It¡¯s what I was made to do.¡±


    The lead sniffed and narrowed his eyes, ¡°So you¡¯ve said every other time you stood before us. Records of your insubordination show the same phrase being used there as well.¡±


    They memorized his file? He grit his teeth and bowed his head, thinking about his conversation with Zludikai, about his team, about Jericho. Just behave and you¡¯ll live long enough to ensure the survival of others.


    ¡°Because it is the only excuse I have for my behavior, I act with Dromedar¡¯s best interests in mind.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The lead said coolly, ¡°It is time you start acting with The Sovereignty''s best interests.¡±


    The Sovereignty is in Dromedar, is it not you narcissistic idiot? You don¡¯t control me!


    ¡°I agree Governor, please give me a chance to prove to you that I can. Meanwhile, any additional information on this invader would be greatly appreciated.¡± He shot a look at Zludikai, ¡°Right Admiral?¡±


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    ¡°Absolutely, the Navy needs all the intel we can get in order to combat this threat with minimal losses.¡±


    He wanted to hit her. she spoke to them with such ease. As if communicating with this wretched fungus was no big deal. She would do well living up here.


    The Governor¡¯s lips twisted into a smirk, a strange sight given his sputtering outrage not thirty seconds earlier. ¡°We might be able to work out a deal.¡±


    A deal? They want to barter information with service, we¡¯re on the same team morons!


    Zludikai didn¡¯t falter, ¡°Of course, we are here to serve.¡±


    ¡°We sent a convoy to an outpost anchored just beyond Reloculan''s orbit. The savages were foolish enough to attack. They destroyed every ship in the convoy except one.¡±


    ¡°You want me to retaliate.¡± Arthros said flatly, a reloculan raid was a little below his paygrade.


    ¡°No,¡± the Governor said, his smirk ripening. ¡°Admiral Zlaydoss led an orbital bombardment, a little overkill but it seemed to have done the trick.¡±


    A little overkill? That would have required the repositioning of the entire fleet. There weren¡¯t enough warships left for that maneuver, and for what, genocide? One glance at the sour look on Zludikai¡¯s face told him she felt the same.


    ¡°What do you need from me then?¡±


    ¡°The convoy needs an escort.¡±


    He widened his eyes. They wanted him to run escort, like some cadet fresh out of simulation. Rage bubbled and the spines on his body quivered. They were trying to humiliate him.


    ¡°We know a pilot of your caliber holds quite a high rank among within the Navy, but the merchant captain has requested someone qualified. There is no one more qualified than you.¡±


    Arthros said nothing, his fists clenched, and his spines threatened to explode like needles in a pin cushion. He had more important things to do, his team needed him, Jericho needed him.


    ¡°Run this mission, and we¡¯ll release every report our scouts have given us that might pertain to our mystery intruder.¡±


    He took one big breath, enough to calm himself so the foul string of obscenities didn¡¯t escape his tongue. ¡°Whatever the Sovereignty needs.¡±


    ¡°Excellent.¡±


    Whatever else was said didn¡¯t register. His anger blinded him, and his pulse filled his ears. In what world did it make sense to withhold valuable information, and for what? All to save face? Anything to make them feel better about themselves. To hell with the entire planet.


    ¡°Arthros, are you listening to me?¡±


    He jerked to reality; they were walking out in the street. The cathedral far behind them.


    ¡°No, what were you saying.¡±


    ¡°That I¡¯m proud of you.¡±


    He snorted, the sentiment did little to smooth his frustration. ¡°I should have cut his head off.¡±


    ¡°Then we would be left with nothing.¡±


    He sighed and lifted his face. The upper layer was filled with sunlight, the air was the perfect temperature. Yet all was eerily quiet, it felt wrong. Where were all the animals? Oh right, driven to extinction.


    ¡°You really believe they crossed the Storm?¡±


    She sighed, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to believe it, but it¡¯s truly the only explanation. They had the tech to annihilate two HWNDs, three days ago I would have said that was impossible.¡±


    He grunted, she was right on that. HWNDs were supposed to be invincible. That belief alone did most of the heavy lifting in terms of peace keeping. Could they afford for the Reloculans to discover HWNDs could be destroyed? Or the Union? It would be a disaster.


    ¡°That human you mentioned before, Cyprus Atik? A few moments before I ran into you, I received a transmission from one of our patrols. They reported a Union ship anchored in Reloculan orbit. The official introduced themselves by the same name.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess, she was standoffish and refused to elaborate on her reasoning for being there.¡±


    The Admiral chuckled, ¡°it really pissed Wraitharos off. He¡¯s suspicious of course, but it could be a humanitarian mission.¡±


    ¡°Or it could be something else.¡±


    They both walked silently for a few moments, each of them sharing the same thought. If the Union did plan to join Reloculan in their fight against them, could they hold them off? They were probably the only two people in the entire star system that knew the truth about Hokku.


    ¡°She could still be there when you escort the convoy.¡± She suggested.


    He gave her a look, ¡°You think she¡¯ll partake in a Reloculan ambush?¡±


    Zludikai raised her hands defensively, ¡°I¡¯m just telling you to keep your eyes open. If the Union is up to something, it¡¯s best we figure that out before it¡¯s too late.¡±


    The last thing he wanted to do was escort that convoy.


    ***


    Arthros found Randrea and Graito walking together down one of the corridors in the Dormitory. He stopped them and they questioned him on his disappearance. He quickly explained the meeting with the High table, and the mockery of a mission they were sending him on. Randrea and Graito both hid a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re in charge of Jericho¡¯s training. As soon as he wakes up have him try the crown again. Keep going until he can stand up.¡±


    ¡°and if he can¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°Have him keep trying.¡±


    She glanced at Graito, ¡°I mean if he can¡¯t. Do you want me to take it off.¡±


    For a moment he stared at her, the very thought of removing the crown to save his life seemed perverse. A slap in the face of the integrity of HWND training, and yet he had done it. He couldn¡¯t keep it up, eventually Jericho would have to do it on his own, or he would die. That was the nature of the HWND program, it was how they weeded out the weak.


    ¡°Don¡¯t intervene,¡± he said quietly. At least he wouldn¡¯t be here to watch him die. ¡°Find the twins, and Fydither, have them suit up and meet me in the hangar, I¡¯m not doing this fool¡¯s errand alone.¡±


    They saluted and hurried off. Arthros swore under his breath and marched in the direction of the hangar. At least he had an excuse to pilot his HWND.

 Chapter 18 - Cyprus

    Chapter 17 ¨C Cyprus


    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    Reloculan was a wasteland of sand and stone. Not unlike Kleth¡¯altho in it¡¯s unremarkable barreness. Even so, Kleth¡¯altho still felt alive, a bustling population of individuals who thrived below surface level.


    This place just felt dead, and a little sad.


    Cyprus couldn¡¯t quite put a finger on it, but as they descended and she saw the blackened remnants of a greatness long passed, she felt depressed.


    In Dromedar¡¯s infant stages, Reloculan was a superpower. A goliath in technological advancement and engineering. She had seen photos of their cities and they were incredible, a marvel unlike anything she had seen before and that included the cities of the major planets today.


    That all changed when Hokku launched their crusade, an emotion-fueled rampage that led the grey skinned aliens half way across the star system. Unfortunately Reloculan was their first stop, and it burned to cinders as a result. The poor world hadn¡¯t focused on military development, not like Hokku had, and it proved to be their downfall. Though Cyprus wasn¡¯t sure if anything could have stopped the Hokkonians at that time, they were on another level, plain and simple.


    Their ship touched down in a sandy valley, stone cliffs rose on either side like the banks of a ravine. At the base of the walls were small metal structures, tents Cyprus realized, like the ones her family used on their overnight treks into the Gasaan wilderness. Though these ones seemed a little more permanent, judging by the slowly collecting sandbanks threatening to bury a few, the tents had been there a long time.


    Through the ship¡¯s viewport, figures could be seen marching through the torrent of sand and wind.


    Marching? Snakes didn¡¯t march, they slithered, on their bellies. ¡°What are they wearing?¡±


    ¡°Not wearing, Piloting.¡± Recli¡¯s deep rasping voice made her jump, she didn¡¯t mean to voice her question out loud.


    Piloting? How did he know, to her they just looked like large humanoid silhouettes. She envisioned Hokkonians stalking through the sand and her heart lurched.


    Get a grip of yourself, there¡¯s no Hokkonians here.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Recli hissed in her ear.


    She obeyed with a silent meekness that shamed her. There was a phantom leash around her throat, and it dragged her along with cruel mockery.


    The moment the door opened sand spilled into the cargo hold and the wind¡¯s howl muffled any sound their steps made on the ramp. The grit stung her face, and she held a hand up as a shield.


    Recli¡¯s hulking shape moved, and she had no choice but to follow. He led them to shelter, one of the metal tents along the ridge.


    Motion-sensing lights illuminated the area as they stumbled out of the storm. The wind lessened to a mournful moan, lamenting their escape to shelter.


    ¡°That was horrible,¡± Cyprus muttered, spitting out sand, ¡°is it always like that here?¡±


    ¡°Not always.¡± A watery and robotic voice said.


    She turned to see one of the humanoid figures standing in the entry, significantly larger than her, but still dwarfed by Recli¡¯s bulk.


    Her eyes widened at the sight, Recli was right. It wasn¡¯t a biological at all, but a suit of armor controlled by a snake-like life-form.


    The head and torso of the machine were made up of two transparent spheres filled with an unknown fluid. Suspended within the liquid was the coiled body of the alien. His scales were bright orange, with yellow triangular markings patterning down his spine. He had two biological arms, but they hung limply at his side, underdeveloped and unneeded.


    Wires were attached to the floating reptiles body, all of which extended to the four metal limbs that comprised the bipedal machine.


    ¡°Interesting,¡± she heard Recli whisper.


    She glanced up to see his murderous eyes flashing with curiosity. No doubt he was already assessing the alien¡¯s strength with efficient precision.


    The Reloc continued, ¡°there are tornadoes that pluck the roots of our settlements out of the sand like weeds.¡±


    The fluid submerging the snake¡¯s head drained, and the transparent globe retracted into the shoulder ridges of the machine. The Reloc¡¯s head, now exposed to the air, looked sickly. It shook it¡¯s head free of any remaining droplets, and eyed them with a guarded suspicion. His yellow eyes were like Recli¡¯s, but they lacked the predatory gleam.


    ¡°You are the one I spoke with, from the Union? I am lLieutenant Geld.¡±


    The voice was coming from the machine, not from the Reloc¡¯s mouth. A translator, and a refined one at that. The voice sounded deep and rich with intellect, attractive even.


    She cleared her throat and nodded, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Cyprus, I have- had a seat on the council. I¡¯m captain of the Terminus 14 at the moment.¡±


    The Reloculan said nothing and studied her for a moment before turning his attention to Recli. ¡°And you? I¡¯ve never travelled beyond the orbit of this world, but I am certain there were never any creatures like you mentioned in our historic texts.¡±


    The Shadari stepped forward and smiled, revealing rows of teeth. The Reloc didn¡¯t move, and held his unflinching gaze. ¡°I come from the Shadari Empire, I am the tip of the spear.¡±


    The Reloc¡¯s eyes narrowed, ¡°from beyond Dromedar?¡± He glanced at Cyprus, ¡°an ally of the Union?¡±


    Her stomach churned, and she longed to scream at him for help, to run, to get as far away from here as possible. All she did was nod, and fix her feet into the sandy soil. ¡°That¡¯s actually why we''re here.¡±


    The Reloc studied her for another moment and then turned his attention back to Recli, ¡°The tip of the spear you say? That would imply an invasion into Dromedar, for what purpose?¡±


    Invasion? No they¡¯re here to destroy the Sovereignty.


    Recli didn¡¯t deny it, and she could hear the rumble of excitement thrum in his throat. ¡°To watch the Sovereignty crumble, we exist for the slaughter of our enemies.¡±


    Geld twitched, a crack in his composure. A forked tongue flicked out of his mouth to taste the air. Cyprus glanced between the two reptilian aliens and suddenly felt very out of place.


    ¡°They have wronged you as well?¡± The snake hissed.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Came Recli whispered.


    Geld started to fidget. ¡°And where does the Union stand on this?¡±


    Cyprus licked her lips, was she really about to do this? Admit to the secret ploy she had spent years dreaming of. She was here on a Union ship, in a Union uniform, under the pretense of Union sanctioned humanitarian mission, and she was about to admit to a declaration of war against the Sovereignty.


    Run. Run away. Back to Gasaan. Back to the sunlight filtered, leaf littered glens where dreams were only dreams.


    ¡°The Union stands with the Shadari Empire, if Reloculan joins the Union we can officially start funneling resources and aid you in your fight against Hokku.¡± She spoke with a confidence that betrayed her inner turmoil.


    A strange noise emitted from the alien.  An untranslated gurgle that slipped out of the snake¡¯s mouth. He nodded his head, his stoicism gone like the wind that whistled outside.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    ¡°It is a pleasure to meet you both.¡± His head bobbed and his tongue flicked, ¡°I apologize for the scrutiny, we do not get visitors.¡±


    ¡°Not necessary, I understand.¡± She glanced at the weather still raging behind him. ¡°Is there someplace official we should meet, a government building maybe? Sorry, but I¡¯m completely ignorant of Reloculan¡¯s infrastructure.¡±


    Geld¡¯s head drooped a little, ¡°The camp you¡¯re standing in is one of four, but luckily the Lord General¡¯s camp is not far off.¡±


    ¡°Four camps within the region?¡±


    The Reloculan choked out a rueful laugh, ¡°no, the planet.¡± He spread his robotic arms wide, ¡°this is all that¡¯s left.¡±


    Her eyes widened, were the Reloculans that close to extinction? The entire population condensed into four pitiful camps. They were teetering on the precipice of oblivion.


    ¡°How many of you are-are-¡°


    ¡°Left?¡± Geld¡¯s eyes hardened, ¡°We took a headcount after our last raid, there are four hundred battle-ready males. Our situation is dire, but thankfully four of seven remaining females are gravid.¡±


    ¡°Gravid?¡± Cyprus asked.


    Geld paused with a tilt of head, ¡°I believe you call it pregnancy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, uhm,¡± the corner of Cyprus¡¯ mouth twisted in an awkward smile, ¡°Well that¡¯s good then, right?¡±


    She wanted to palm her own face. It was far from good, they were dancing on the border of non-existence.


    The Reloc had the good graces to attempt a smile, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s good.¡±


    ¡°You only have Three hundred occupying a planet this large?¡± Recli interrupted.


    Geld only nodded.


    Recli¡¯s lip curled, ¡°Your world could be dominated with a single battalion or stolen by a fleet of pirates.¡±


    The snake gave a humorless laugh, ¡°Stolen? No one wants this world. It is plagued with souls of my people, infested. Everywhere you step is a burial site.¡±


    Cyprus shuddered and tried not to think of the poor individuals who were incinerated where she stood. She imagined that rising from the sand, twisting up her leg to constrict around her throat in some ancient spirit revenge.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to be disrespectful, but I was told you were in the process of rebuilding.¡± Cyprus ventured.


    Geld turned away, his robotic translation was devoid of emotion but she could see the pain in his eyes, ¡°There was a city, a few thousand kilometers from here. An accumulation of our efforts to recolonize, hundreds of years spent rebuilding from the scraps. It was nothing like the cities from our archives but¡­ we were proud of it.¡±


    The way he spoke in past tense sent a chill down Cyprus spine, what could have possibly happened to a city.


    Geld read Cyprus¡¯ expression, ¡°One standard week ago, there was an orbital bombardment and the city was decimated.¡±


    Cyprus jaw went slack and her voice caught in her throat. ¡°But, I don¡¯t understand, why? Why would the Sovereignty do that. What threat do you pose.¡±


    Recli growled beside her, ¡°Fools.¡±


    She gave the lizard a questioning look, and back at Geld. The snake kept his eyes on the sand. For a moment only the wind spoke, a haunting howl that swept a fresh flurry of sand into the tent¡¯s opening. The flaps of fabric shook, and Cyprus inched away.


    Geld¡¯s robotic arms hung at his sides, ¡°We¡­ ambushed a Sovereignty convoy just outside our orbit. We killed all the Hokkonians, and we stole the cargo¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t kill all of them.¡± Recli muttered.


    ¡°You took the spoils back to the city,¡± She whispered with dawning realization. ¡°A Hokkonian ship escaped.¡±


    The Reloc turned to look at her, eyes so similar to Recli¡¯s yet so different, filled with an incomprehensible brokenness. ¡°They knew exactly where to strike¡­ we- we didn¡¯t think they would react like that.¡±


    The wind sounded different now, like the tormented wail of the world grieving. She wanted to join it; four hundred soldiers? That was all that Reloculan had to offer, a tiny militia filled with experts on how to lose.


    ¡°Geld, your leader, I think we should speak with him.¡±


    He nodded, ¡°Lord General Sseroch, I¡¯ll take you to him.¡±


    The Reloculan tried to get them to walk the seven kilometers but Cyprus refused, and she would have laughed in his face if it wasn¡¯t for their mind-numbingly depressing conversation. Instead, they flew, and landed at the second camp within minutes.


    The spirits at this camp were not much better, the grief hung in the air like a wet blanket. When she met Sseroch he practically vibrated with guilty energy. He was significantly older than Geld and his scales were a faded red. Though visually that was the only tell. His voice sounded identical to the attractive smoothness of Geld¡¯s and his scale bore no haggardness.


    She wasn¡¯t even sure if scales could wrinkle, not like an elderly human. Regardless, he was old. There was a depth of wisdom in his reptilian eyes that she recognized in Giantis.


    Cyprus explained the process of joining the Union, and described the documents she would have him sign once she could get a hold of them. He was only half listening, his gaze lingered on Recli.


    When she finished the lecture, he agreed to join without an argument. His only response was a single murmured word, ¡®okay.¡¯


    It was a word that spoke a thousand.


    What else did they have to lose at this point? She felt for him, but at the same time she blamed their own stubborn naivety. What did they think would happen? They had poked the bear for 300 years, the Sovereignty''s harsh reaction was no surprise.


    ¡°Well, is that side of business finished?¡± Sseroch asked.


    Cyprus blinked, ¡°I suppose so yes, you understand all the details about joining the Union?¡±


    The snake wasn¡¯t listening, his attention was now completely focused on Recli. Understandably she supposed, to them Recli was a shining beam of hope, a living weapon. Wasn¡¯t that how she first perceived him too?


    ¡°Now, there is not much I can offer you in return,¡± Sseroch said, nervously tasting the air, ¡°I have approximately four hundred soldiers at my disposal.¡±


    ¡°Recli shook his head, ¡°I don¡¯t need your soldiers, I need this world.¡±


    Sseroch blinked at him, ¡°You need this place?¡± He started to laugh, ¡°What you see, is what you get, the entire surface of the planet looks like this. There is no oasis here.¡±


    The Shadari bared his teeth in a grin, the horns running along his jaw seemed to shine. ¡°My people are coming, and when they get here I need a place to keep them. Your planet will do fine. In return we will destroy the Sovereignty for you.¡±


    An insatiable need glimmered Sseroch¡¯s reptilian eyes, a blinding, dream full filling desire. Though for a split second he hesitated, a small part of his brain screaming at him to think it through. What exactly would he be signing away? The thought was gone, Cyprus swore she could see it fading from eyes.


    ¡°Destroy Hokku, and this world is yours.¡±


    A tremor ran through the Shadari¡¯s spine, up to the base of his neck where he tossed his head like cattle shooing flies. His tail slapped against the ground, kicking up a cloud of sand and dust. A guttural laugh reverberated in his throat, and his grin widened into a fearsome murderous snarl.


    ¡°A pleasure doing business with you.¡±


    ***


    They ate dried military rations that Sseroch fished from one of the nondescript crates in the tent. The General asked many questions, most of which involved the state of Dromedar and the Union¡¯s growth. The proposal of Recli rejuvenated him, and for a moment it seemed as if he forgot about the devastating reality. Cyprus did her best to answer the questions, careful to avoid mentioning the Sovereignty. Though the conversation inevitably drifted in that direction, and Sseroch¡¯s mood quickly darkened.


    ¡°We¡¯re hitting them again,¡± He said suddenly, as if he just remembered.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°The Hokkonians are sending out  another convoy, we¡¯re going to hit them again. This time, no survivors.¡±


    Cyprus grimaced, she was in no place to deny them their right for revenge, but the idea seemed idiotic. Surely the Hokkonians would be expecting it.


    ¡°Fighting is all my people know, I can¡¯t take that away from them now.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a suicide mission.¡± She argued.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Sseroch nodded, ¡°it absolutely is.¡±


    She glanced at Recli, but the Shadari only stared at the Reloculan, with his ever calculating gaze. He got the place he was searching for, why would he care if the inhabitants killed themselves.


    ¡°But, we¡¯ve been developing a secret weapon, it¡¯s still in the early stages but with the right self-targeting precision modifications, it could easily turn the tide in any fight against a HWND.¡±


    Cyprus interest was peaked, and she forgot her concern. ¡°What does it do?¡±


    ¡°A laser, so narrow it¡¯s beam exists only on a molecular level. We¡¯ve tested it on scraps of Hokkonian steel, it penetrates it easily.¡±


    ¡°So the laser is for the pilot, but with something that small can it even do any damage?¡±


    Sseroch looked confused, ¡°It¡¯s not for the pilot.¡± He narrowed his eyes at Cyprus puzzled expression, ¡°Do you not know?¡±


    ¡°I-¡± Cyprus looked at Recli, but the lizard was staring off into space, ¡°No, I guess I don¡¯t. What is the laser for?¡±


    The General tapped the side of his head, ¡°How do you think they¡¯re piloting those machines?¡±


    Before Cyprus could answer, another Reloc appeared at the entry.


    ¡°Lord General! The Hokkonians are on the move, their convoy will be passing overhead shortly.¡±


    Sseroch clapped his metal hands together, and stood up. The robotic joints creaking loudly. ¡°I want two squadrons on the move, and a third on me.¡±


    The Reloculan saluted and hurried off. Through the tent¡¯s opening the camp seemed to come alive, teeming with Reloculan soldiers running to their posts. Eager to escape their own misery.


    ¡°You two are in luck,¡± Sseroch said as he walked between them, ¡°You¡¯ll be able to see Reloculan fighters in action. Would you like to join?¡±


    ¡°No¡± Cyprus definitively.


    The last thing she should be doing is joining a raid on a Hokkonian convoy. She didn¡¯t even have an unmarked ship, and she certainly wasn¡¯t about to climb onboard the snake-like vessels the Relocs flew. Not many of those would be coming back.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Recli said.


    Cyprus wilted, she could feel the collar of fate tightening around her neck. She didn¡¯t say a word as Recli led them back to her ship. Reloculan soldiers all around them rushing to their deaths.

 Chapter 19 - Jericho

    Chapter 18 - Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 300 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    ¡°He¡¯s still lying there.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s eyes fluttered open at the sound of the feminine voice. Bright lights shone down on him.


    ¡°Dead probably.¡± A smack could be heard, followed by a muttered curse.


    Where was he? His fingertips twitched, and he felt the rubbery surface of the arena. The arena! What happened to the crown? He tried to reach for it, but his arms didn¡¯t want to respond.


    Randrea¡¯s face appeared above him, lips pursed. ¡°Are you dead?¡±


    He blinked repeatedly, his vision was bleary. ¡°No, but I think I might be dying.¡±


    She brought her face even closer to his. Is she kneeling beside me? His cheeks started to burn and he tried to turn his face away.¡±


    ¡°Why do you say that?¡± She murmured.


    ¡°I can¡¯t move.¡±


    Randrea let out an incredibly girlish giggle.  ¡°Probably normal, you were like, this close to dying.¡± She made a tiny space between her fingers.


    ¡°Probably normal?¡±


    She suddenly leapt to her feet and crossed her arms. She stood over top of him, his view from the floor accentuated the hard lines of muscle running up her legs, to her torso and arms. His eyes lingered on the skin tight uniform, where it was and where it wasn¡¯t.


    If only she wasn¡¯t twice your size¡­ or I don¡¯t know, had hundreds of weird spines all over her body.


    With some effort he ripped his eyes up to her face, she was staring back at him with an unimpressed, knowing look. His cheeks reddened and he squeezed his eyes shut, willing his body to melt into the floor.


    ¡°I have a stim in my bag,¡± A nasally voice said from somewhere out of his vision. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what it will do to a human though.¡±


    Randrea stretched her arms behind her head and he tried not to notice her toned stomach and the bare skin that krept up her torso a little too far.


    ¡°What do we have to lose? He might be dead in a few minutes anyways.¡± Randrea said with a laugh.


    ¡°I can hear you.¡± Jericho muttered, ¡°I¡¯m not going to die, give me the stim.¡±


    ¡°You heard him, Graits.¡± She shrugged.


    His eyes bugged when he saw the size of the needle, but kept his mouth shut as the Myrd popped the cap off and removed any air bubbles. Without a word the needle was jabbed into the meat of his thigh, and he felt it bite into his femur.


    They stood over him and waited for the reaction. A look of morbid curiosity on Graito¡¯s face made his skin crawl.


    A pressure started to build at the point of injection, the muscle started to swell and his skin tightened. The pressure lessened just before the bursting point and heat flooded his body.


    Red hot molten iron heat.


    He screamed and thrashed on the floor as every nerve ending lit up like a starship¡¯s control panel. Thankfully, the pain lasted for a only a few seconds and it faded almost as quickly as it had come.


    ¡°How do you feel?¡± Randrea asked with a twinge of concern.


    His skin itched something furious and he leapt to his feet. It felt like a swarm of insects taking microscopic bites out of his flesh and he scratched like a madman. His brain was screaming at him to move as if the only way to relieve the itch was to work his muscles to exhaustion.


    ¡°I feel incredible, but so-¡° He scratched at his scalp, ¡°ugh I¡¯m so itchy.¡±


    Graito¡¯s cocked his head, ¡°interesting side effect.


    ¡°Is that not normal?¡± He started to jog in place while simultaneously scratching at the skin behind his knees, ¡°I think my skin is going to catch on fire.¡±


    ¡°Nothing about this situation is normal,¡± Randrea said, snatching the crown from the floor. ¡°Everything here was not designed for human consumption or interaction. You might think Arthros knows what he¡¯s doing, but he¡¯s just as lost as the rest of us.¡±


    ¡°That''s a comforting thought,¡± He mumbled, staring at the twisted wire crown with a new sense of dread. ¡°So Arthros doesn¡¯t even know if I¡¯m capable of surviving this thing.¡±


    The Myrd¡¯s bulbous lips pulled back over his needle-like teeth in a contemptuous sneer, ¡°That¡¯s why he ripped it from your head. He¡¯s afraid you were going to die.¡±


    If that was true, then it would mean Arthros sacrificed the integrity of the training to make sure he lived. It didn¡¯t make sense, he didn¡¯t care that much about him¡­ did he?


    ¡°Why would Arthros do that.¡± He said through gritted teeth, scratching his elbows.


    ¡°How am I supposed to know?¡± Graito snarled, ¡°Something is going on or he¡¯s going soft.¡±


    ¡°Graito,¡± Randrea snapped, ¡°watch how you¡¯re talking! He was just giving him a second chance.¡±


    The Myrd whirled on her and rose to a bipedal stance. He lifted a flat, stubby finger towards her face, ¡°Exactly! Where was Scyth¡¯s second chance? We watched her writhe in her own filth, do you know how embarrassing that kind of death is? Do you know what that would do to her reputation back home if word got out?¡±


    The itchiness faded.


    There was a look of pained understanding on Randrea¡¯s face as she placed a comforting hand on the alien¡¯s shoulder, ¡°we need to trust him, he has a reason.¡±


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    The tension in the arena was palpable. Graito dropped to his centaur stance and let his two upper arms go limp. For a moment he glared at the floor as a storm of emotions wrought his face into a mask of torment.


    ¡°Graito¡­¡± Randrea knelt down so she could look him in his six eyes.


    ¡°You take over, I¡¯m not doing this.¡± He turned and walked out of the arena, leaving Randrea helplessly watching him go.


    Jericho watched him go, a pit forming in his stomach. Arthros might have saved his life, but it hadn¡¯t done him any favors. Was it even possible to make the Myrd like him at this point?


    ¡°Who¡¯s Scyth?¡± He managed.


    The wire crown was passed to him as Randrea sighed. ¡°His sister.¡±


    His heart sank even further, and he accepted the crown without a word. He¡¯s going to hate me forever. Damn it Arthros, what have you done?


    ¡°Try not to think about it, you need to focus. I don¡¯t want Arthros to come back to your corpse.¡±


    ¡°Easier said than done, I think Arthros set me up for failure. In more ways than one.¡±


    Randrea didn¡¯t say anything but the grim look on her face said enough. He took a deep breath and placed the crown on his head. He still had no idea how to deal with the pressure. The crown¡¯s effect was so severe and immediate that any coherent thought vanished the moment it was activated. It was one thing to fail at something you knew was possible, but what if it wasn¡¯t possible?


    Arthros had thrown him into this arena without any solid evidence that a human was even capable of withstanding the neurological pressure.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡±


    Jericho glanced up, surprised she was giving him a chance to prepare himself. ¡°What? No sudden activations?¡±


    She shrugged, ¡°You had a taste of that just like the rest of us. But now you need to be given a chance to do it properly, or I¡¯ll be sending your body to the morgue.¡±


    Jericho pressed his lips together, and only nodded to let her know he understood. I can do this, I¡¯ll prove to everyone that I deserve to be here. Are you watching mother.


    ¡°Remember, it¡¯s a neurological device. It¡¯s all happening up here.¡± She tapped the side of her head with a slender finger.


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    Her fingers twitched and the device was activated. The pressure hit him harder than Graito¡¯s punch, and he dropped like a sack of stones to the ground. Just like last time, every human thought was replaced by a raw, animalistic instinct to escape.


    Use your head!


    He rolled to his stomach and thrashed, clawing uselessly at the hard rubber floor. His instincts told him to burrow, maybe survival could be found underground.


    Think! All you have to do is think!


    He gnashed his teeth, and a guttural howl was torn from his lips. The crown was stripping him of everything that made him human. If his legs could work, he knew they would have carried him out that building.


    Yet, he was aware of this. He could hear his thoughts, faint as they were. Yes! Use your head, you can do this!


    He wasn¡¯t an animal, but a man. A human. He was Jericho Hound.


    He squirmed like a bisected worm, his hips bucked and his feet kicked senselessly in the air. Get it off, Get it off, Get it off! ¡°GeeetItoff!¡± The words spilled from his lips like water dribbling down his chin, but they were words.


    Somewhere in the back of his conscious he was aware of a Randrea speaking to him. You are Jericho Hound, you¡¯ve survived far worse. Those thoughts drifted through his consciousness like a sloop amidst a storm of towering waves. But he heard them, and they were enough for his eyes to catch a glimpse of the glowing thread, coiled on the floor in his front of his face.


    The sight of the thread was enough to lessen the pressure by a minuscule amount, but in his mind it was like entering the eye of the Storm.


    Peace for one blissful, fraction of a second. It was all he needed.


    Randrea said it all happens in my mind, she wouldn¡¯t say that if it didn¡¯t mean anything. Think, you stupid idiot think or you¡¯re going to die.


    He was vaguely aware of Randrea¡¯s encouraging voice, and the puddle of drool his face was currently sitting in. It all happens in my mind, why- the computer. The answer was so ridiculously easy he felt like a fool for not figuring it out sooner, except he had no idea how to access the AI.


    The pressure returned, and his time of refuge was over. With a monumental surge of energy and the feeling of the thread coiling around his wrist, he ripped the crown from his head. As if it never happened, the pressure in his head vanished and he was left panting in puddle of his own sweat and drool.


    ¡°You pulled it off, intentionally.¡± The Hokkonian spoke quietly, almost to herself.


    ¡°Yeah, I needed to speak to you.¡±


    She blinked at a him, bewilderment filled her features. ¡°You talked, I heard you.¡±


    ¡°Is that not normal?


    Randrea shook her head, ¡°You talked yourself through it, I¡¯ve never seen anything like that. Speech comes far down the road, long after you manage basic motor function. It¡¯s almost as if you¡­ forced the words out through sheer will.¡±


    She gave him a strange look, and Jericho thought he caught a hint of apprehension in her gaze. It was as if she was seeing him for the first time. No it was more like she seeing a feral animal, snapping at the air and frothing at the mouth.


    ¡°How do I access my AI?¡±


    She seemed to snap out of whatever was occupying her thoughts. Her smirk returned, albeit a little shaky. ¡°You figured that part out did you. The crown has been designed to simulate the neurological pressure of a HWND, but it¡¯s more than that. No matter how strong or weak your mind is, the crown will always exert more pressure than your mind can handle. It forces you to access your AI from the very second it¡¯s activated.¡±


    ¡°That would have been nice to know.¡±


    The female shrugged, ¡°Like I said, we all had to figure it out on our own. If it killed you, then it killed you.¡±


    ¡°Like Scyth.¡±


    Randrea pursed her lips and glanced at the doorway where Graito had left, ¡°Exactly like Scyth. On your first try there is no intervention, no matter what, that¡¯s the rule.¡±


    ¡°So then why did Arthros save me.¡±


    The Hokkonian ran hand through the Mohawk of spines on her head and sighed, ¡°Because he¡¯s worried about something, and when Arthros is worried, we should all be worried. He doesn¡¯t just do things for no reason, there is a process to every decision he makes. Graito understands this but¡­ well it¡¯s going to take some time for him to get over it.¡±


    ¡°I get it, I would be the same way.¡±


    Randrea nodded, ¡°Me too, alright, put that crown back on your head, we have some work to do.¡±


    She explained briefly how to activate the AI. A confusing explanation and consisted of phrases like ¡®you just know it when you feel it¡¯ and ¡®you just need to try and touch it¡¯. It wasn¡¯t helpful at all, but it was better than nothing.


    For the next couple hours Jericho tried and failed to access the computer in his head. For hours he would don the crown, only to drop to the floor in a writhing mess of limbs and drool. Every time he managed pull the crown off at the last second, and though he was getting quicker at captivating his own thoughts, the pressure wasn¡¯t lessening. He was just ¡®getting used to it¡¯.


    It was impressive sure, and Randrea made sure to tell him, but it wouldn¡¯t be good enough to pilot a HWND. It wasn¡¯t even good enough to get up off the ground.


    ¡°Picture it in your head, and just touch it.¡± Randrea said, poking an imaginary something in the air.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m trying,¡± Jericho snapped.


    His uniform was completely soaked, and it clung to him uncomfortably. His head was a tangled sweaty mess. His limbs were sore from the thrashing, and bruises he received from dropping to the floor were getting worse.


    Until one time, he finally saw the ¡®thing¡¯ Randrea was talking about. Guided by the thread wrapped around his wrist, he stumbled upon a light.


    A small glowing ball of energy, so faint he could barely see it, but it was there. The more he envisioned it, the easier it was to see. Until the only thing that filled is vision was the thread wrapping itself around the glowing sphere. He reached out a tentative hand, and touched it.


    Hello Jericho.

 Chapter 20 - Arthros

    Chapter 20 ¨C Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    The captain of the merchant vessel glanced at Arthros, and nervously smoothed the spines on his forehead. He was fat for a Hokkonian, too fat to be a captain. How could you be trusted to lead a crew, if you couldn¡¯t even be trusted to moderate your appetite?


    Arthros curled his lip in contempt and turned away from the captain¡¯s displeasing image. The cockpit of the merchant vessel was far more simple than his Novawolf. The navigation console was a simple screen, with basic maneuvering instruments. The viewport was rectangular and flat, which made it difficult to actually see anything beyond their direct line of sight.


    Nonetheless, he refused to sit in the shipping bay, where the captain had originally suggested he stay. If the Relocs attacked, he wanted to make sure the fat Hokkonian didn¡¯t panic.  His HWND was back there though, and he could feel Zero¡¯s impatient prodding as she waited for him.


    He mentally shooed her away like a fly. They knew the Relocs had the tech to know if a HWND was nearby, if he sat in his, they would never come. The whole point was to catch them off guard.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think they¡¯re coming.¡± The captain mumbled, ¡°They wouldn¡¯t be that stupid.¡±


    Arthros raised a hairless eyebrow, ¡°Do you know what the Sovereignty did to them? They don¡¯t care anymore, they¡¯re going to kill themselves doing whatever damage they can.¡±


    ¡°They deserved it, they destroyed my ships.¡±


    Arthros frowned.


    ¡°And the people I employed to defend them of course!¡± The captain hurried to say.


    ¡°The Sovereignty wiped out three million people,¡± The spines on his head quivered, ¡°you think they deserved that?¡±


    ¡°I- well I- they¡¯re nothing but-but savages, they deserved it.¡±


    He shook his head, he didn¡¯t care if his spines stood on end. Three million people, and a city that took countless generations to rebuild. He didn¡¯t share any love for the Relocs, but no one deserved genocide. He stared at The Sovereignty''s insignia on the captain¡¯s shoulder, the crowned star. He wanted to rip it off and feed it down the captain''s throat.


    The metal ring on his second finger vibrated, and twisted his palm. A miniature hologram of Fydither¡¯s face was staring back at him. ¡°Heads up boss, I got movement on the planet¡¯s surface, they¡¯re coming.¡±


    He nodded, clenched his fist, and Fydither¡¯s image vanished.


    ¡°Those idiots,¡± He muttered.


    The captain paled, ¡°they¡¯re coming? They¡¯re really coming again?¡±


    The tremor of fear in his voice was unmistakable, and disgust rose in Arthros throat. ¡°Just fly the damn ship.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take long for the merchant vessel to detect the incoming Reloculan fleet. Three squadrons, 12 fighters each. It was a large force, significantly larger than the raiding party they had sent earlier.


    They knew. They knew that there would be a trap. They knew that it was a suicide run.


    Arthros pulled his teeth back in a snarl. He was angry at the Sovereignty for putting him here, angry at what they did, and angry that the Relocs were forcing his hand. He didn¡¯t want to kill him, he didn¡¯t want to play any part in their extinction.


    Unfortunately for them, he wasn¡¯t bred for restraint and mercy.


    The battle was utter carnage.


    ***


    Arthros had ordered the captain to maneuver the freighter to the back lines, an order that the captain happily obeyed.


    The large rectangle ship turned with sluggish inefficiency and was positioned for a clear view of the incoming chaos. The Reloculan attack force were only pinpricks on the horizon, but they were coming fast.


    He had no real way to communicate with his pilots while they were in their HWNDs, but they didn¡¯t need his direction. They were experts at their craft, and their battle ingenuity far outclassed the standard drills that other HWND divisions memorized.


    There were only three other freighters in the merchant convoy, and they created a barrier between the incoming fighters. The freighter in the middle carried Fydither, while the twins stationed themselves on the other two. From his position, Arthros had a clear view of the three freighters. He watched as the HWNDs came to life and positioned themselves in preparation.


    Contrary to Fydither¡¯s biological shape, his HWND operated on all fours like a quadrupedal beast. Installed on his back was a rail gun, as large as the HWND was long. The rail gun started spinning, as it powered up with a purple glow.


    When the first wave was in range, Fydither open fired and the dark vacuum of space was filled with purple flashes. Arthros could almost feel the concussive force of the weapon, a tremor rippling through space.


    The rail gun cut through the first wave like a knife through paper, the Relocs didn¡¯t even have time to comprehend what had happened to them. It was a beautiful light show, celebrating the pointless sacrifice of Reloculan lives.


    The other two squadrons evaded the fiery balls of debris with sharp turns, and circled back to avoid Fydither¡¯s onslaught. He knew that the Ordanian would be deeply unsettled by the sheer amount of lives he took over the span of a few seconds. He could tell by the way his aim faltered after the immediate destruction of the first squadron. His aim never faltered.


    You¡¯re just following orders, Fydither.


    The twins didn¡¯t have any such moral qualms. They flung off the hulls off their respective freighters and tore after the rest of the Reloculans like predators on the hunt. Their combat was mesmerizing. A combination of fluidity and lethality that could only be described as art.


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    Their HWNDs spun around each other in a tight spiral, dodging the enemies'' panicked fire with ease. In the same motion they returned fire, flashes of bright purple followed instantly by exploding Reloculan ships. The black void of space was a vibrant canvas of death.


    Something through the chaos caught his eye. A few dozen kilometers beyond the confusion and destruction, there was a ship. anchored in Reloculan¡¯s orbit. From this distance it was impossible to identify, but it was suspicious nonetheless.


    ¡°Does this ship have a weapon¡¯s system?¡± He barked at the captain.


    The Hokkonian jumped, ¡°Of course not! This is a shipping freighter not a battle cruiser.¡±


    Arthros didn¡¯t take his eyes off the strange ship, ¡°What about a signal tracker? Anything to allow the ship¡¯s navigation to lock onto that vessel.¡±


    The captain followed the point of Arthros finger and squinted out the viewport. ¡°There¡¯s nothing there.¡±


    More movement, the ship was leaving. A few more moments and it would fly beyond the ability of his sight.


    ¡°It¡¯s there, we need to track it.¡±


    ¡°This is shipping freighter, Commander. I¡¯d suggest using the HWND you have docked in the shipping bay.¡±


    ¡°Your suggestions are meaningless, Captain.¡± Arthros snarled, ¡°Now do as I say, and move this flying piece of junk.¡±


    The fat Hokkonian sputtered, ¡°I- I will do no such thing! There is a battle going on, you¡¯re supposed to protect me!¡±


    If he moved to the shipping bay to get in his HWND, then he would lose sight of the mysterious ship. So, he made the only decision that made logical sense in his mind.


    He grabbed the collar of the Captain¡¯s jacket and heaved him backwards out of the chair. The Hokkonian squawked in protest but didn¡¯t fight back. He collided with the grated metal floor and lay in a dazed heap as Arthros took the navigation¡¯s chair for himself.


    ¡°This is why you always get in trouble.¡± Zero commented.


    Arthros only grunted in response and forced the thruster forward. The ship obeyed the command with a sluggish lurch. He leaned heavily on the thruster and the massive freighter slowly began to pick up speed.


    You could have just sent me.¡± Zero pressed.


    ¡°Enough!¡± He snapped.


    He could feel her recoil, but he refused to feel guilty. Sometimes she forgot her place, and besides, he knew she was right. This would inevitably get him in trouble, but what would they expect him to do? Sit in the cockpit and watch, he was a soldier not an observer.


    As the freighter cut through the battle, he saw Fydither pause his attack. His link vibrated and he twisted his palm open.


    ¡°Where you going boss?¡± Fydither¡¯s voice emanated from his palm.


    ¡°Someone¡¯s watching us, once the Relocs are dead, escort the rest of the convoy and I¡¯ll meet you there. Relay this order to the twins.¡±


    He closed his hand into a fist to end the call and readjusted his grip on the controls. The Freighter was gaining on the ship, and from that distance the green Union colors were visible.


    ¡°I knew it!¡± He snarled.


    ¡°Turn-turn this ship back around, this instant!¡±


    Arthros turned to see the barrel of a side piece blaster trembling in his face. The captain was clutching it with both hands. Sweat dripped down his face and pooled in the folds of his neck. His spines lifted from his skin but drooped in a pathetic display.


    ¡°Are you going to shoot me Captain?¡± Arthros sneered.


    ¡°Yes!¡± The pudgy Hokkonian¡¯s voice was shrill, ¡°I will if you don¡¯t go back to the others.¡±


    Arthros bared his teeth, ¡°Do it then! Take command, this is your vessel, and I took it from you.¡±


    The captain¡¯s spines drooped a little more. ¡°I will! On Tril I will!¡±


    ¡°What are you waiting for then?¡±


    ¡°For- for you to do what I tell you.¡±


    Arthros threw his head back and cackled, ¡°I¡¯m not going to do that.


    The captain faltered, ¡°Why?¡± he asked weakly.


    ¡°I already told you, now sit down and shut up, or shoot me in my Tril forsaken head!¡± The captain¡¯s arm fell, and the small blaster clattered on the floor. He collapsed in a passenger chair where he smoothed his spines and breathed heavily. Arthros snorted in disgust, and turned back to the Union ship which was now clearly identifiable. They made no attempt to evade, the pilot probably assumed the freighter was simply trying to escape the battle.


    ¡°Zero, run a scan, I want to know the pilot.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d advice against that, our treaty forbids intrusive scans, they¡¯ll know.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s too late, they breached the treaty the moment they took part in this battle. Do it.¡±


    He could feel the AI hesitate, ¡°Okay, we need to get closer.¡±


    ¡°I can do that.¡±


    After a quick search of the console, he found the launch thrusters and slammed his fist into them. The freighter shot forward faster than expected and the Union ship was spooked. It whirled around to escape.


    ¡°Zero?¡±


    ¡°Closer, those ships are built to protect against invasive scans, I need more time.¡±


    Arthros cursed and continued the chase. The freighter was moving at an impossible speed now, and the distance between them and the enemy cruiser was closing. Though with every second they hurtled through space, Reloculan¡¯s surface grew closer. Soon they¡¯d enter the atmosphere, and inevitably expose themselves to whatever anti-aircraft weapons still remained.


    ¡°Zero.¡±


    ¡°More time, I almost have it.¡±


    A bright light flared across the viewport as they ripped through the atmospheric layers. The pale orange of the Reloculan desert was visible, they only had a few more seconds.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to kill us!¡± The captain squealed.


    ¡°Shut up!¡± Arthros snarled, ¡°Zero!¡±


    ¡°Done.¡±


    Arthros slammed the thrusters closed and engaged the breaks. The freighter groaned in protest and for a moment he thought the sudden change in velocity would tear the vessel apart.


    They came to a shuddering halt, with an effort he was able to turn the beast around. Explosions shook around them as the anti-aircraft weapons activated. The launch thrusters were re-engaged and the freighter shot towards open space and out of weapon range.


    After a few moments of heart pounding silence the freighter escaped the pull of Reloculan¡¯s orbit and Arthros released the breath he was holding. He sat back with a sigh and allowed the ship to float passively towards the convoy that waited for them.


    ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve uploaded the scan to your link.¡±


    He twisted open his palm, and the scan results floated in front of him. A deeply satisfying feeling washed over him when he recognized the image of the pilot. Cyprus Atik, Union council member and director of Terminus-14.


    ¡°She¡¯s all yours Captain.¡± He stood up and motioned to the empty seat.


    The captain stared at him wide-eyed and pale. He swallowed and dabbed at the sweat dripping down his forehead. Arthros traded places with him and lost himself in the scan results. He would learn everything he could about the woman.


    One thing was certain, the Union was up to something, and she was the key.

 Chapter 21 - Jericho / Cyprus

    Cyprus


    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Cyprus slammed her fists into the navigation console. ¡°I knew we shouldn¡¯t have gone.¡±


    Her entire body trembled with adrenaline and fear, and she held her head in her hand. That was a HWND pilot, it had to be. There was no other explanation for a civilian freighter to pursue them.


    ¡°What have we done?¡± She moaned.


    ¡°Pull it together,¡± Recli snarled, ¡°We¡¯re alive, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    For once her fear of the Shadari was outweighed by the suffocating dismay she felt in her chest.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you get it? They scanned me. They can pin to me this! It¡¯s enough for the whole damn Sovereignty to declare war.¡±


    A deep rumbling growl rippled from the lizard¡¯s throat, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you destroy the ship?¡±


    She gaped at him, ¡°That¡¯s even worse! What do you think would happen if-¡°


    A massive, clawed hand clamped around her throat, ending her words in a strangled yelp. The lizard lifted her from her feet with ease and brought his elongated jaw close to her face.


    ¡°Do not speak to me like I¡¯m a freshly hatched whelping,¡± He hissed.


    She nodded frantically, and helplessly pawed at her neck. She could feel his talons piercing her skin. Just as she felt her consciousness start to slip, he released his hold and she dropped to the floor gasping for air.


    ¡°If it is as you say, then we don¡¯t have a choice.¡± He licked his teeth hungrily. ¡°We must start now.¡±


    She stared up at him from the floor; her throat burned. He glanced down at her, reptilian eyes flashing with predatory excitement. In that moment she was struck by an overwhelming sense of despair, she had inadvertently started something she wasn¡¯t sure she could finish. Now she truly did not have a choice. After watching that fight unfold, it was evident how truly outmatched they were against the HWNDs. The Relocs were obliterated before they even had a chance to fight back.


    ¡°We need HWNDs.¡±


    Recli stared at her, ¡°I will get them.¡±


    She took a deep breath and got to her feet. ¡°It¡¯s not going to be easy, the Ordanians will fight us they¡¯re an entire planet of Sovereignty sympathizers.¡±


    ¡°Let me worry about that, you only need to get us on the surface.¡±


    She swallowed, ¡°Then what are we waiting for, we have an assassination to plan.¡±


    Recli¡¯s guttural laugh filled the cockpit. A trickle of blood ran down the fresh laceration on her neck. She could still feel the iron grip around her throat, and the talons that teased her death.


    <hr>


    Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 350 Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    Jericho¡¯s chest heaved as he stumbled to his feet. The crown lay on the floor where he had torn it off in frustrating failure. He was shirtless, the sweat-sodden uniform had been uncomfortable.


    Randrea¡¯s brow furrowed in concern as she weighed another stim in her hands. She gave him a questioning look and he managed a nod.


    It had been 42 hours since he first started his training, and since then he had refused to rest. Subsisting only on stims and a nutrient rich drink that just barely staved off his ravenous hunger.


    At some point Sto''ram and Dight had arrived to watch, though he wasn¡¯t sure when. He stopped tracking time several attempts ago. Part of him wanted to give up. It would be so easy to deny the stim and succumb to his exhaustion. He was sure his prolonged exposure to the neurological strain was inflicting permanent damage. His brain felt like mush. Why was he doing this again? Was it even worth it?


    He could hear his mother¡¯s cackling cruelty, ¡°of course you want to give up! You¡¯re worthless! I expected nothing else.¡±


    Randrea¡¯s strong grip sturdied him, and he refocused his gaze on her smiling face.  ¡°You¡¯re close, don¡¯t give up. You almost have it.¡±


    She bent to stab the stim into the meat of his thigh. The explosion of pain caused his knees to buckle, but a strong arm wrapped around his back kept him propped up. Jericho could hardly keep his eyes open as the tremors of agony rippled through his body.


    Yet the resulting burst of energy was swift, and it exterminated the creeping infestation of fatigue.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Randrea murmured.


    Awareness hit him like a slap to the face. Randrea¡¯s face was only a few inches away from his own and he could feel the warmth of her breath on his cheek. For a single blissful second he succumbed to the intoxication of her scent.


    ¡°Jericho.¡±


    He leapt out of her grip and tried to shake the color from his cheeks.  ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I- uh- thanks.¡±


    Please don¡¯t kill me, I promise I¡¯m not normally this weird. I¡¯m exhausted.


    She waved off the apology and scooped the crown from the floor.  ¡°You got this.¡±


    He swallowed and nodded. Behind her Sto''ram and Dight were watching intently. Were they secretly hoping that the crown would kill him?


    He wiped his sweaty palms on his pants and found that the fabric was already drenched.


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    ¡°Here we go.¡±


    The crushing pressure of the crown was all too familiar and he was still powerless against its weight. It pinned him to the floor like a stone on paper.


    At least accessing the AI was easier now. It was the only real indication of any progress. In the neurological haze it seemed to glow like an illuminated path through a shadowy forest.


    ¡°Again?¡± It seemed surprised.


    ¡°Help me.¡± He thought.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how.¡± Its voice was mournful.


    How many times had they exchanged those words? By now he had figured out the right steps. He had to isolate the pressure and fight with his mind, not with his body. That was easier said than done. With a colossal effort he forced himself to lay still, and his thrashing stopped.


    ¡°Take the load.¡± He insisted.


    ¡°There¡¯s too much!¡± The AI wailed.


    How many times had the AI refused? It was like arguing with an infant. It had no true concept of situation¡¯s severity and it whined like a small child.  Wait, what did it say.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t you take it?¡±  He asked.


    The AI whimpered, ¡°It¡¯s everywhere, I can¡¯t handle everything at once.¡±


    It¡¯s everywhere?  Maybe this wasn¡¯t a single focused assault, but an attack on a hundred smaller fronts. If he could identify and isolate those attacks, then he could stand a chance.


    You can do this. Arthros is counting on you.


    Piece by piece he allowed his mind to fixate on individual components of the pressure. He offered each isolated component to the AI and the computer gladly accepted.


    Piece by piece the pressure lessened.


    Eventually he was physically able to push himself to a kneeling position. His vision was blurry, but he could see Randrea staring wide-eyed. The sight of her fueled him even further, until every muscle in his body was straining to lift him to his feet.


    Tears sprang to his eyes when he realized he was standing, and a scream tore from his lips as he lifted his arms and ripped the crown from his head. It clattered to the floor, and he sank to his knees, openly sobbing into his hands.


    He felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up to see Randrea gazing down at him in wonder. Dight was standing behind her, the eyes on his shoulders wide in amazement. Sto''ram remained expressionless, but her orb-like eyes didn¡¯t frantically dart around but remained fixed on him.


    ¡°You did it, I don¡¯t believe it. You did it.¡± She murmured.


    He frantically wiped away the tears as laughter bubbled from his lips. He sat on his knees, every ounce of energy spent. He had no reserves left to stop the accumulation of emotions that roiled inside him.


    A geyser of uncontrollable laughter.


    Randrea started to chuckle too, and she helped him to his feet with a wide smile. ¡°Are all humans this insane?¡±


    Jericho wobbled on his feet as the last of the stim¡¯s effects started to wear off. He grabbed her arm to keep steady. ¡°No, I¡¯m one of a kind.¡±


    Wow, what is wrong with you.


    ¡°I agree,¡± Randrea muttered. Jericho gave her a surprised look and she turned away, ¡°Let¡¯s get you to the infirmary.¡±


    ¡°Randrea.¡± Sto''ram cut in.


    Jericho looked at the Titulonist and saw her holding out an open palm. Floating a few inches above her hand was a holographic portrait of him, above were runes he didn¡¯t recognize.


    Randrea narrowed her eyes, ¡°Jericho¡¯s? What¡¯s wrong with it.¡±


    The Hokkonian twisted open her own palm. A ring on her forefinger flashed, and his portrait appeared above her palm. Her jaw dropped as she stared at it. Jericho squinted at the Hokkonian runes written above his portrait, but he didn¡¯t understand them either.


    ¡°What is it?¡± His heart hammered in his chest.


    Why do they look so spooked.


    ¡°It¡¯s your psychosomatic output, it¡¯s changed.¡± She whispered.


    ¡°That¡¯s good though, right?¡± Her confusion was starting to worry him.


    ¡°I mean normally yes, but this.¡± She frowned, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen this before, not even with Graito.¡± Her intense gaze flicked to his, ¡°Do you know what your Psychosomatic Output was when you got here?¡±


    He shook his head.


    ¡°I do, I scanned you after Graito knocked you out. You were at 300 Units, you didn¡¯t even qualify for a Synaptic Rank.¡±


    Jericho made a line with his mouth, ¡°That sounds about right, Arthros told me it was terrible.¡±


    Randrea nodded slightly, ¡°That is terrible, but your number has changed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gone up though right, it couldn¡¯t have gone down.¡±


    ¡°Jericho, it¡¯s at 1,000.¡±


    Her white eyes were filled with something unrecognizable. Dight¡¯s rumbled something that sounded suspiciously like apprehension. Sto''ram was unreadable.


    ¡°Why are you making it seem like that¡¯s bad thing? 1,000 sounds really good.¡± He asked.


    Randrea shook her head, ¡°It¡¯s not that it¡¯s bad. It¡¯s just unheard of. No one progresses that fast.¡±


    Here it goes, I¡¯m going to have to tell her why. I¡¯m unbound or whatever. ¡°It¡¯s because-¡±


    ¡°I told you he had potential, didn¡¯t I?¡± A deep voice came from the arena doors.


    Jericho turned to see the Commander standing with hands clasped behind his back. ¡°Congratulations, Jericho.¡±


    Jericho grinned, ¡°Thank you sir.¡±


    The female wasn¡¯t convinced, ¡°this goes beyond potential Cap, he qualifies as rank 1 but his psymetra still isn¡¯t calculating. Have you ever seen that before?¡±


    Arthros was silent for a moment as he stared at Randrea. His face was a mask of impassiveness, ¡°No.¡±


    Randrea opened her mouth to say something, but hesitated and then said nothing. She continued to study Jericho¡¯s portrait.


    The Commander, satisfied that she wasn¡¯t going to press the issue, dipped his head,  ¡°bring him to the infirmary then meet me in my office. Same goes for you two.¡±


    Dight rumbled and Sto''ram nodded.


    He paused, ¡°Where¡¯s Graito?¡±


    Randrea winced and shook her head.


    ¡°Wait, what about me?¡± Jericho asked. ¡°I don¡¯t want to go sit in the infirmary while you guys have a meeting.¡±


    Arthros studied him with a cool gaze, ¡°It¡¯s a debrief for pilots only.¡±


    Jericho looked up at Randrea but she didn¡¯t meet his gaze, ¡°But I passed the crown test.¡±


    The Commander blinked, ¡°You¡¯ve shown you¡¯re capable of handling the most basic requirements. That doesn¡¯t classify you as a Pilot.¡±


    ¡°But I just trained for two days- ¡°


    ¡°Enough.¡± Arthros snapped, ¡°You¡¯ve only done what is expected.¡±


    The words stung. Was that truly the extent of the praise he received for slowly killing himself? ¡°I did what¡¯s expected? I didn¡¯t stop for two days straight! I¡¯ve proven that I¡¯m good enough.¡±


    He pushed his luck too far, and Arthros stalked up to him. He shrank away from the bristling Hokkonian.


    ¡°You¡¯ve proven nothing.¡± Arthros snarled, ¡°The crown didn¡¯t kill you, but I will if you openly disobey me again. Don¡¯t forget where you stand, human. I¡¯ve protected you, but you¡¯re not one of us yet.¡± The look in Arthros eyes softened, ¡°Your effort has not gone unnoticed, get some rest because this is only the beginning.¡±


    The Hokkonian turned on his heel and walked out of the arena. Sto''ram and Dight followed him out. Leaving Jericho standing like a berated child beside Randrea.


    She gave him a tight smile, ¡°You heard him.¡±


    He followed her blindly out of the door, his mind whirling. Arthros had said that it was only the beginning, but what could that truly mean? He had proven he could withstand the pressure of a HWND, wasn¡¯t that enough? Anger flared and he grit his teeth. He defied the odds and proved them all wrong. There wasn¡¯t a single person, Arthros included, who truly believed he would survive. Yet here he was, and all he received was a tongue-lashing. Whatever was coming next, he would attack with the same determination he had with the crown. He would prove to everyone that he was good enough.

 Chapter 22 - Arthros

    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    Arthros office was crammed as the pilots gathered for the debrief. The twins boasted loudly about the mission to anyone who would listen, while Fydither snickered beside them. Dight, because he couldn¡¯t fit inside the room, rumbled something intelligible from out in the hall.


    ¡°So, you blew up a bunch of Reloculan ships? That can¡¯t be why you called us all in here.¡± Graito said, two sets of arms crossed against his elongated torso.


    Arthros kept his expression neutral, ¡°No, I noticed a Union ship anchored several kilometers outside the battle. So, I got close enough to data scan.¡±


    There was a collective gasp and the room went quiet.


    ¡°An intrusive scan on a Union cruiser?¡± Randrea¡¯s mouth hung open. ¡°The Sovereignty is going to skin you alive.¡±


    Arthros lip twitched, ¡°No they¡¯re not, I just spoke with them. It was my first stop when I returned from the guard duty. They had to know what I found.¡±


    They all stared at him expectantly, and he took a slow breath.


    ¡°I have a firm suspicion that the Union is planning on starting a war.¡±


    The pilots all shared uneasy glances; he had been preparing them for a possibility like this for a long time.


    ¡°The cruiser belonged to a council member named Cyprus Atik, Zero is uploading the data scan to your PETs.¡±


    The pilots all twisted their palms upward to activate their PETs. For the Hokkonians, it was a ring on their forefinger. Sto''ram and Graito didn¡¯t have fingers slim enough, so theirs had to be converted to bracelets. Dight was physically incapable of wearing one, so he waited patiently in the hall.


    A holographic portrait of Cyprus appeared on their all their palms.


    Arthros glared at the repeating image, ¡°This is the same human who denied me access at Terminus-14 when I was investigating the breach. I think she¡¯s harboring the invader and plotting to launch an attack into Sovereignty space.¡±


    ¡°So, this woman is allies with the HWND killer?¡± Fydither muttered.


    Arthros nodded, ¡°I think so, moving forward we should assume the alien is with her.¡±


    ¡°We have another mission?¡± Flux asked.


    ¡°Obviously you idiot, why else would we be here.¡± Scor said, smacking his brother in the head.


    ¡°You¡¯re the idiot! -¡°


    ¡°There¡¯s no mission,¡± Arthros said loudly, ¡°The Sovereignty is assigning another division to the case.¡±


    He scanned the room and met the eyes of his Pilots. He could see the disappointment in their faces. ¡°I wanted to make sure you were all up to date on the intel. In the meantime, you¡¯ll oversee Jericho¡¯s training.¡±


    The others hesitated but accepted the order with slight nods.


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    Graito let out an exasperated sigh ¡°I don¡¯t mean any offense Commander, but he¡¯s a human, he¡¯s going to get us killed! We¡¯re not going to stand for it.¡±


    The room went quiet. Fydither nodded but the others looked away.


    ¡°So that¡¯s it? The human passes one lousy test and suddenly you¡¯ve all accepted him?¡± Graito sneered.


    Arthros slammed his hand onto the desk, and the Myrd fell silent. ¡°They¡¯re obeying my orders, something that¡¯s expected of you as well. Do you forget about the life I saved you from? You weren¡¯t so different from Jericho.¡±


    Graito stared at him, the hurt written on his face. Arthros felt genuine concern for the Pilot, but he didn¡¯t have time to unpack the underlying issue. The Myrd would just have to accept the reality and move on. He hoped that would be possible.


    ¡°He¡¯s trying at least,¡± Randrea¡¯s mutter broke the awkward silence.


    The hurt on the Myrd¡¯s face twisted back to anger, ¡°That¡¯s another thing, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with you lately! You¡¯re as obsessed with him as Arthros.¡±


    Arthros blinked, what did that mean? It was no surprise that she was his greatest supporter, but obsessed seemed to be a strange choice of words.


    The female¡¯s spines stood on end, ¡°I despise what you¡¯re implying.¡±


    Graito¡¯s lips curled, ¡°and what am I implying?¡±


    A nervous tension filled the air. It wasn¡¯t often that the two of them fought, and when they did the others didn¡¯t know how to handle it.


    Randrea took a step to Graito, her spines now fully erect, ¡°He¡¯s progressing faster than you.¡±


    Graito faltered, and Arthros sighed. He was really hoping to keep Jericho¡¯s true potential a secret for as long as possible. Once the others found out he was unbound, the merit of his grit and determination would be lost. No one liked to admit when someone was better than them, especially pilots whose ego alone could match HWND mech in size.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible,¡± Graito snarled, ¡°he¡¯s a human.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s currently emitting a psychosomatic output of 1,044, that¡¯s a 248% increase after two days.¡± Sto''ram¡¯s watery voice cut in.


    The twins started to whisper to one another and Dight stomped his feet in the hallway. Even Arthros couldn¡¯t help but be impressed, the human¡¯s growth was rapid regardless of his unbound psymetra.


    Graito¡¯s mouth opened and closed like a dying fish. He didn¡¯t know what to say, and Arthros felt a flicker of sympathy for the frustrated Myrd. Jericho was going to surpass all of them in due time, it was up to them to understand that and foster the human¡¯s growth until then.


    ¡°How, how is that possible?¡± The Myrd ground the words out through clenched teeth.


    Randrea smoothed her spines and shrugged. Sto''ram shook her head and turned pupil-less eyes on Arthros.


    It was Fydither who clued in first, ¡°I think there¡¯s something the Commander isn¡¯t telling us.¡±


    Arthros groaned inwardly and fought the urge to exasperatedly deny. Jericho needed more time to grow before his secret was out! All eyes were on him as he thought of an answer, unfortunately his silence spoke volumes.


    ¡°Who is Jericho?¡± Sto''ram said.


    ¡°What is he? A human isn¡¯t capable of this.¡± Randrea muttered.


    His office explode in a cacophony of questions, from Dight¡¯s rumbling to Sto''ram¡¯s watery inquiries. What would they do if they found out? What would happen to the dynamic of the division? Jericho need allies, not jealous enemies.


    ¡°Commander?¡±


    ¡°Arthros, if he¡¯s not human does that mean we can fight him now?¡±


    ¡°Cap? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Arthros stood up from his chair and the sudden movement caused everyone to fall silent. He took a moment to look at each of their faces. This family had been built from his sweat and blood. What would happen if they knew about Jericho¡¯s unlimited potential? Would they revere him or ostracize him.


    Probably both.


    ¡°Jericho is unbound, like me.¡± He said.


    They all stared at him in shock. Even the twins ceased their incessant gibbering. Arthros watched them carefully, but they were experts at guarding their emotions. Judging from their silence, they were in disbelief.


    ¡°You¡¯re all dismissed,¡± He said quietly.


    They left without a word.

 Chapter 23 - Cyprus

    Chapter 23 - Cyprus


    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    Ordan was not an easy place to visit. The entire surface of the planet was covered with tall and narrow stone structures, like needles bristling on every square kilometer. The spires were a natural defense against intruders, and it was almost impossible to land a star ship anywhere on the surface.


    Almost.


    Like every other planet apart of the Dromedar Union there were dedicated space ports made specifically for the importation and exportation of resources. It was a narrow landing zone, but Cyprus managed to lower the ship down to the clearing. She only struck a spire once, hopefully not hard enough to leave a dent.


    She powered everything down and took a moment to collect her thoughts. She could barely see anything through the viewport as the needle-like spires blocked everything from view. She could feel Recli¡¯s presence in the cargo hold like the ominous breeze before a storm.


    Stick to the plan, and you¡¯ll be fine.


    She mentally prepared for what she was about to do and activated the ship¡¯s exiting sequence. She stopped in front of the mirror, adjusted her collared shirt, and smoothed out the wrinkles on her trousered thighs.


    She was ready.


    The view from the surface was even more breathtaking than the view from her descent. The massive stone spires created a forest of needles. Their height and density reminded her of the great cities on Lappo.


    Night was just starting to settle here, and the resulting darkness engulfed the jungle of stone needles. Goosebumps pimpled her skin as she stared out at the eerie shadows. She knew the Ordanians were already watching her, their little stone bodies were perfect camouflage.


    ¡°Ah Cyprus, It¡¯s good to see you again! Welcome to my home world. A high-toned voice said behind her.


    Cyprus jumped at the sound and whirled around to face the voice, heart racing from the scare. An Ordanian flew at eye level behind her. His long, membraned wings fapped silently to keep his small body airborne. His head reminded her of the armadillos that burrowed beneath the trees on Gasaan, and like those armored mammals, his body was encased in a stone-like exoskeleton.


    Just like any other Ordanian, he looked like a boulder with wings.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I did I frighten you? It¡¯s Shilf.¡± He flew into the light cast by her ship¡¯s exterior LEDs and his Union uniform became visible.


    Cyprus lifted her chin to salvage her dignity, she knew the Ordanian had purposely tried to scare her, even one as decorous as Shilf. Damn mischievous imps.


    ¡°I could never be frightened by you Shilf, you¡¯re so non-threatening.¡± Cyprus said with a sweet smile.


    The Ordanians devilish grin melted into an impudent frown, ¡°It¡¯s good to see you, I hope things are well on Terminus-14 .¡±


    Cyrpus felt a twinge of guilt. Shilf wasn¡¯t necessarily her friend, but they had always been on good terms. Regardless, she was here to start a war and possibly get him killed. It would be better if she had no friends.


    She managed a smile, ¡°Forgive my irritation, I haven¡¯t been sleeping well.¡±


    There was a knowing look in the alien¡¯s red eyes, ¡°The outer layers can be intimidating if you¡¯re not used to it.¡±


    You don¡¯t know the half of it, pal.


    ¡°So should we get this meeting started?¡± She asked.


    Shilf pulled out a data tab from the small satchel strapped to his side, ¡°The Hokkonian representative should be arriving any minute.¡±


    The alien settled on the ground and tucked his wings into a crevice on his back. Cyprus tried to be patient, but it was impossible to ignore the concoction of dread and anxiety that stewed inside of her.


    Shilf noticed the anxious bouncing of her leg and he smirked, ¡°first time meeting a Hokkonian?¡±


    She tried her best nonchalant shrug, ¡°I¡­ met one before, on Terminus-14.¡±


    His crimson eyes widened, ¡°That must have been very exciting!¡±


    ¡°It was something.¡±


    ¡°Were they piloting a HWND?¡± Shilf asked with unmistakable giddiness.


    ¡°No, he was flying a ship, but he did claim to be a HWND pilot.


    ¡°A Novawolf M-42 class! That¡¯s a HWND transport, those are marvelous vessels.¡±


    She frowned at the alien¡¯s awe-filled grin, ¡°Why do you like them so much?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡±


    ¡°The Hokkonians,¡± She waved at the air, ¡°The HWNDs, the Sovereignty, everything.¡±


    The Ordanian blinked, ¡°Why would I not?¡±


    She almost laughed out loud, ¡°Seriously Shilf? Have you ever listened to thing I¡¯ve said at the meetings.¡±


    The Senator was starting to look equal parts uncomfortable and confused. But she didn¡¯t care, not anymore.


    ¡°They¡¯re slave-owners, doesn¡¯t that seem wrong to you?¡± She clenched her fists.


    The alien¡¯s wings unfolded and started to twitch; she assumed it was a sign of discomfort. ¡°We all do bad things.¡±


    Now she really did laugh out loud.


    Before the Ordanian could question her maniacal laughter, his eyes widened, and he propelled himself into the air with a violent flap of wings. An instant later, a HWND landed behind Cyprus.


    She never even heard it coming.


    The impact caused the ground to shake, and it sent a tremor up her legs. She fell to the ground and whirled around to see the machine. The formidable appearance of the HWND took her breath away.


    Up close she could see the Hokkonian resemblance, a robotic copy of its biological counterpart. It was massive, and it stood like a human as it surveyed the scene. The blue and gold armor plates shone from the hours spent in its upkeep.  How many slaves polished the amor plates each day?


    Her stomach twisted into a knot of hatred and rage as it stared down at her. Her fear of Recli was consumed by the fires of her abhorrence. The thing inside might not have taken her sister, but it played a role in the dynasty that committed that atrocity.


    The HWND lowered itself to one knee, and it moved so fluently it was hard to imagine it was a machine at all. It was so much a copy of its pilot, that she could read the body language. This one, was gentler than most, the way it carefully leaned its massive head closer to hers.


    ¡°Who are you,¡± Its deep robotic voice asked, ¡°Where is Councilor Freth?¡±


    Cyprus lifted her chin and tried to still the tremble she felt in her throat, ¡°I am Councilor Cyprus. I¡¯m here to observe the meeting between Councilor Shilf, and Hokku¡¯s ambassador.¡±


    The HWND was quiet for a moment, its head lifted to look at Shilf, ¡°Is this true?¡±


    Cyprus bristled, but the Ordanian rushed in before she could snap, ¡°Yes, she¡¯s filling in for Freth, she¡¯s the acting captain of Terminus-14.¡±


    The HWND seemed to stiffen¡ª A trick of the shadows maybe. The giant mech nodded and straightened to two feet. Moments later she heard the unmistakable roar of break-thrusters. She turned to see a shuttle landing beside her ship. Its design was simple, a sleek, bone-white prism. Long and narrow, nothing like the Novawolf she had encountered earlier. This was a civilian ship.


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    A strange, scraping sound came from the shadows beyond the clearing. Cyprus froze and at the same time the HWND activated the plasma cannon built into its right arm. The hypnotizing hum of heating plasma filled her ears and purple glow began to envelop her peripheral vision. She shielded her eyes with a hand to see the oversized barrels of a plasma cannon. It was a weapon that could vaporize every molecule of her body, and it just might before the night was over.


    ¡°Everyone please remain calm,¡± Shilf said, ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s just an oarsie, they grow quite big in this area.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t an oarsie, it was Recli. He was out there, camouflaged in the stones. She could feel his murderous intensity. The Hokkonian sensed it to, and kept the canon leveled at the spire line.


    The sound came again, this time on the opposite end. The Hokkonian didn¡¯t hesitate and its HWND fired a shot.  The sound of condensed plasma ripping through the air was awful, like a symphony of breaking bones.


    Instead of an explosion, the plasma round passed through the spires as though they weren¡¯t there, it left a massive gaping hole in its wake before it dissipated into nothing. A second later, the spires with their vaporized trunks came crashing down.  Dust and debris filled the clearing.


    Shilf flew in front of the HWND¡¯s face, waving his arms and begging him to stop. Cyprus waited for the inevitable swat, that would turn Shilf¡¯s tiny body into a paste. Surprisingly the HWND seemed to obey.


    Then the HWND did something unthinkable and powered down. A loud hissing sound came from behind the machine, followed by the light thud of feet on dirt. The Pilot came strutting out from behind his rig, his clothing was made up of tight bandages that covered him from his ankles to his neck. His skin was faded, more white than grey and his eyes were a bright blue. He would have been handsome if thousands of spines didn¡¯t cover his bald head and stick through his strange clothes.


    He gave Cyprus a smile, revealing sharp teeth. ¡°Hope I didn¡¯t frighten you.¡±


    She wanted to scowl and spit at his feet, but she couldn¡¯t resist his magnetizing aura. She was drawn to him in ways she couldn¡¯t explain, and an animalistic part of her wanted to stroke his muscle-laden arm and feel the prickle of his spines against her palm.


    He twisted open his hand and a ring on his forefinger glowed. A holographic portrait of a much uglier Hokkonian appeared. ¡°Excuse me high lord, it¡¯s not safe for you to come out yet. I need to check out the surroundings on foot, I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s too dense for my HWND.¡± He closed his fist and the image disappeared.


    His voice, like every other Hokkonian Cyprus had met, was like polished ice, deep and smooth. He winked at her and turned towards the chaos he had created along the spire long.


    Her feet were rooted to the dirt as she watched. The Hokkonian unsheathed a two-handed arc sword from the bandages on his back. Its blade was as long as Cyprus was tall and it hummed with energy.


    It hung limply at the alien¡¯s side, its tip carving a shallow trench through the dirt. His languid strut demanded attention and boasted invincibility. He turned back to look at Cyprus and flashed her a smile so roguishly arrogant she would have bet all her credits that he was flirting with her. Heat rose in cheeks, and she wrestled against the absurd urge to warn him. He had no idea of the danger prowling in the shadows, but that was the whole point. She wasn¡¯t here to save lives, but to take them.


    Cyprus held her breath, waiting for the inevitable strike from Recli.


    Nothing happened.


    The Hokkonian shrugged and started to walk back to Cyprus and Shilf. A nonchalant grin revealed tips of sharp teeth. ¡°Must have been an oarsie, poor thing got vaporized- ¡°


    His blue eyes went wide, and he completely froze. The sudden shift in his demeanor made her blood run cold. It was happening.


    Recli¡¯s shadowy form launched from the spires, claws extended to rip the life from the Hokkonian in a single blow.


    For the first time, Cyprus recognized a flaw in the reptile¡¯s impenetrable persona. It was slight, like a fracture in a castle¡¯s stone walls, but it was there.


    He didn¡¯t know everything. He was naive. A Hokkonian was not easy prey, and a HWND pilot wasn¡¯t prey at all.


    Even taken completely by surprise the pilot had the reaction speed to dodge the initial blow. Instead of slicing through the Hokkonian¡¯s neck, Recli¡¯s claws scored deep furrows into the alien¡¯s shoulder. The pilot howled in pain as the momentum of the strike sent him flipping forward, he landed on his back staring up at his attacker.


    Recli didn¡¯t wait and he was on the Hokkonian instantly, this time slashing both claws downwards at the fabric covered belly. Somehow the Hokkonian managed to roll and twist into a kneeling position. He countered the attack, clubbing both of Recli''s outstretched claws away from his stomach with his uninjured arm.


    The deflection saved his life, and Recli¡¯s claws only managed a glancing blow, tearing out chunks of flesh from his torso. Simultaneously the Hokkonian used Recli¡¯s momentum against him and exploded powerfully out of his crouched position, driving his knee hard into the reptile¡¯s throat.


    Cyprus knew she should run and take cover, but the brutality of the fight was riveting, almost beautiful. The Hokkonian was shorter than Recli, but he moved agile grace that made up for his lithe physique and shorter frame. Recli might have been a death wreaking monster, but the Hokkonian was an instrument of crippling devastation.


    They were a match.


    It was Recli¡¯s turn to let out a cry of pain, and he crashed into the ground. The Hokkonian pilot sprang back to avoid being pinned by Recli¡¯s collapse. Cyprus watched in horror as the Hokkonian lurched around Recli, who lay thrashing on the ground clutching his throat and coughing.


    With every staggering Hokkonian step, Cyprus watched her revenge on the Sovereignty slip through her fingers. Part of her was relieved, she would be free from Recli¡¯s torment and the guilt that wrapped its cold fingers around her heart.


    The other part, the piece of her that she feared the most, was filled with rage. Her heart was blackening with hatred. She wanted to obliterate the entire planet. She couldn¡¯t let Recli die.


    The Pilot stood tall as blood wept from the wound on his side and the deep cuts in his shoulder. He stood by Recli¡¯s head and unsheathed the arc sword on his back.


    He was just about to bring it down on Recli¡¯s neck when Cyprus cried out, ¡°No wait!¡±


    The Hokkonian hesitated and turned to look at her. For a moment he stared at her and time seemed to slow. Recli appeared behind him with supernatural speed. There was a crazed, predatory gleam in his eyes as his tongue lolled from jaws. He was a monster hungry to devour his prey.


    There wasn¡¯t time for the Hokkonian to react, Recli was too fast.


    He still stared at Cyprus with a puzzled expression which flashed to astonishment as Recli¡¯s tail punctured his back. The thorns on the end of his tail protruded from the Hokkonian¡¯s chest like a blooming flower of bloodied razors.


    The pilot sputtered and the sword dropped to the ground, he stared down in shock and a cry of agony tore from his lips when Recli pulled back. The thorns ripped at the grey flesh like the barbed point of a fishhook, causing more blood to spray the ground. The Hokkonian staggered forewords, clutching the jagged hole in his chest. To his credit, he still turned to fight but his movements were sluggish as death settled in his joints.


    Recli¡¯s tail shot out again, slipping past the Hokkonian¡¯s lethargic attempt to parry. It skewered the Pilot¡¯s stomach, eliciting another scream.


    ¡°I honor your ssstrength¡± Recli hissed.


    The Hokkonian¡¯s face was screwed up in pain and blood started to trickle out of the corners of his mouth, but his blue eyes were clear and icy. ¡°You will die for this. You can¡¯t kill a HWND Pilot.¡±


    ¡°I just did.¡± Recli drove his fist into the Hokkonian¡¯s face, burying his claws deep into the alien¡¯s skull.


    The body went limp and crumpled to the ground. An earie silence filled the clearing as Recli stood panting over top of the corpse. He looked more monstrous than Cyprus had ever seen, as if the adrenaline from the fight had cured him of his sickness.


    She blinked a few times to clear the spectator daze that had entranced her. A quick scan of the area showed the Hokkonian cruiser had left, and Councilor Shilf was nowhere to be seen. The powered down HWND sat unscathed, like a mourning statue.


    ¡°We need to leave,¡± Cyprus stammered, ¡°The Ordanians will be bringing reinforcements.¡±


    Recli¡¯s head snapped up and started to scan the night¡¯s sky. The faint hum of HWND thrusters could be heard in the distance, like rolling thunder warning of the storm to come. Another mech was coming.


    A pit formed in her stomach, Recli barely managed to defeat a pilot outside of his HWND. They were doomed.


    She broke into a sprint, not wanting to waste anytime. If she could reach the spires, maybe the slight cover the stone-needles provided would be enough. She could hide there while the HWND killed Recli, but what about her ship? It wouldn¡¯t take much to tie her to the crime scene.


    As she ran, she looked at Recli. The Shadari seemed to have the same idea. In that same moment, an ear-splitting screech filled the clearing, followed by the roar of engines. The HWND was screaming, and the wail of grief was translated so well through the machine¡¯s vocal output that she could feel the sorrow like a knife through the heart.


    The mech was a giant blur as it flew at Recli. She watched in horror, waiting for the inevitable splat.


    It all happened so fast that Cyprus barely caught it. Recli didn¡¯t dive for cover but leapt upwards. His momentum sent him hurtling toward the top end of a pillar, well above the height of the HWND. His talons drove into the stone with an audible crack and in the same breath he jumped again. This time directly back at the mech still flying towards him.


    He glided a few feet above the speeding machine, dodging the collision with calculated precision. At the same time, he punctured the HWND¡¯s backplate with his tail.


    The mech collided with the stone pillars and Recli fell to the ground from his soaring leap. He sprang to his feet and charged the giant machine that was now lying against the spires, propped like a metal man peacefully observing his surroundings.


    Smoke rose from the hulking mass, escaping through the seams of its armor. Recli leapt onto the HWND¡¯s upper body, he was only a third of its size but powerful enough rip the machine down. It fell face first in a cloud of dust.


    With a ferocious expression Recli pounced and pulled at the triangular metal plates. The muscles in his arm and back rippled as he forced the plates open with a grinding squeal of torn metal. He howled in triumph as he pulled the body of another Hokkonian from the cavity inside. He tossed the corpse in Cyprus and it landed in a heap of limbs at her feet. There was a jagged hole in the pilot¡¯s chest where Recli had struck with his tail.


    She had never been this close to a dead body before, and her stomach churned at the sight. Her brain worked to comprehend what had just happened, but it all seemed surreal. She tore her gaze from the corpses to see Recli¡¯s monstrous figure towering over her. His face was shrouded by the night, but his eyes glowed with a ferocity that sent a chill down her spine.


    His overwhelming presence threatened to consume her. Despite their alliance, Cyprus shook with terror at the sight of him. He was the apex predator.


    ¡°I got you what you wanted.¡± Recli growled, ¡°Now give me what I want.¡±


    She swallowed, ¡°anything.¡±


    ¡°War.¡±

 Chapter 24 - Jericho / Arthros

    Chapter 24 - Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 1,044 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Laying in his hammock, in a strange facility on a strange world, Jericho thought of his Father. The prized engineer of Kleth¡¯altho. The friend of the HWNDs. The man who walked with Hokkonians.


    As a child, Jericho didn¡¯t think it was weird that his father was friends with them. Sure he understood that it was unusual, but as a little kid, unusual only meant cool. So when onlookers would whisper with each other, point, and mutter cruel things, Jericho couldn¡¯t understand why. He would cry to his father, and the man would hug him, and sooth him with quiet words.


    ¡°They¡¯re just jealous, Icho.¡± He would say with a soft smile, ¡°Don¡¯t ever worry about what other people say about you.¡±


    Jericho would sniff, rub his eyes, and promise that he never would. All the while the Hokkonian would stand there. Watching and waiting.


    Always watching. Always waiting.


    It got to the point where Jericho couldn¡¯t remember being alone with his father. The alien was like an overgrown shadow.


    To try and dissipate the growing sense of weirdness, Jericho tried talking to the hulking beast. Most of the time he was ignored, and if the alien did acknowledge him, it was with a bland look.


    His father¡¯s shadow was utterly impassive. A creature with the emotional capacity of a boulder. It only made the weirdness grow. The public¡¯s whisperings grew louder, until Jericho couldn¡¯t help but listen. He didn¡¯t want to walk with his dad anymore, not if the Hokkonian was going to be around.


    One day he whispered these thoughts to his father, as quietly as he could. He had expected anger, but the man just regarded him with a sad look.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Icho, I know none of this makes any sense to you. But what I¡¯m working on is going to make a real difference.¡± He pulled him into a hug and whisper in his ear, ¡°Like everyone else in the galaxy, these guys are just a little misunderstood and misguided.¡±


    As a kid, he wasn¡¯t sure he understood what his father had meant. Not until his mother had snatched him from the shadows of a narrow tunnel leading to the marketplace.


    His mother who he hadn¡¯t seen in years. He remembered her smell the most, like rotting fruit. He had screamed but she clamped a dirty hand over his mouth.


    She dragged him down the tunnel, and he heard his father¡¯s panicked shout, ¡°Balthos!¡±


    Just as the chaos of the marketplace was fading, and his mother was dragging him into oblivion, a figure appeared in the tunnel. Massive and imposing. An impassive expression half hidden in the shadows.


    His father¡¯s shadow.


    He didn¡¯t remember what happened next, but he was freed from his mother¡¯s claw-like grip. His father had dragged him back to the marketplace and wrapped him in a bone-crushing embrace.


    Jericho sobbed into his chest. ¡°Mommy was so scary, what¡¯s wrong with her?¡±


    His father placed two hands on his shoulders and stared at him with a serious expression. ¡°Listen to me, Icho, your mother is very sick. You must never go near her.¡±


    ¡°Is she going to hurt me?¡±


    The man had sighed, ¡°I think so buddy, if you ever see her, you tell me right away. Do you understand?¡±


    A sniveling Jericho had nodded and held his father¡¯s hand as they hurried through the network of tunnels that made up Kleth¡¯altho¡¯s cities.


    A month later, the man vanished without a trace.


    He could still remember the look of greed on his mother¡¯s face when she found him, crying in his now-empty home. The paralyzing fear he felt when her scabbed hand closed around his. The stench of her breath when she would whisper in his ear.


    ¡°Your father didn¡¯t even want you, what makes you think I do?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re worthless, not even enough to buy me some good torpe.¡±


    ¡°What am I going to do with you? You¡¯re nothing.¡±


    Yet every time he would try and run away, she would snatch his ear and twist it until he was sure it would rip from his head. She would cackle at his tears and scream in his face that he was ungrateful for everything she had done for him. Then she sold him for a pouch of torpe, just enough for a few hours of numbing bliss.


    ¡°I¡¯m not worthless.¡± He muttered.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say you were,¡± Randrea said from the doorway.


    He jerked in the hammock and lifted his head past the woven fabric to see her leaning against the entrance. His eyes drifted to the accentuated curves of her body. Unfortunate for his focus, she was still wearing the crop top.


    ¡°Hey! Sorry, uh- What are you doing here? How long have you been standing there.¡± He stammered.


    She looked unimpressed, ¡°Just got here. I did knock a few times, even called your name. Do your ears work?¡±


    He rubbed his eyes with both hands and groaned, ¡°Sorry I was just lost in my own thoughts, I didn¡¯t hear you.¡±


    There was something off about her expression. She looked annoyed, frustrated even. He wanted to ask what was wrong, but he didn¡¯t dare overstep. He liked her, but two days ago she had threatened to kill him.


    She snorted, ¡°Maybe the crown messed with your ears. Let¡¯s go, I was sent here to get you.¡±


    ¡°I- wait!¡± He squirmed and struggled to get out of the hammock, eventually dumping himself onto the floor in a graceless heap. ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    You¡¯re making a fool of yourself, dummy!


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    The Hokkonian made a poor attempt at hiding a mocking smile and jerked her head towards the door. ¡°The arena, for training.¡±


    Jericho stood up and smoothed out his clothes, ¡°More?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s always more. She turned to leave, her footsteps echoing in the hall as she walked away.


    He jogged after her, adjusting his formfitting training uniform as he did so. He tried to gather some information when he caught up, but she was intentionally vague. She barely looked at him and there was a stiffness in her shoulders as they talked. Despite her sudden abrasiveness, he was able to discern a few things.


    First, Arthros didn¡¯t believe in following standard training procedure. That wasn¡¯t a surprise, but it meant that there wasn¡¯t any structure, no step-by-step process that led to a final examination. You either passed or failed Arthros¡¯ imaginary parameters.


    Second, for a strange reason Jericho¡¯s training was being rushed. It wasn¡¯t an official statement, but the other pilots were starting to notice. Arthros was acting weird. Randrea didn¡¯t come out and say it, but the tone of her voice said enough.


    Last and most important of all, the next stage of Jericho¡¯s training involved sparring. Finally, something that he was good at.


    When they reached the arena Graito, Sto''ram, and Arthros were standing in the center.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Arthros said in a low voice.


    The uncharacteristic concern was a pleasant surprise, ¡°I¡¯m feeling good, ready to spar.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ gaze flicked to Randrea, and she rolled her eyes. It was subtle act of rebellion, and it added to Jericho¡¯s suspicions that something was going on. Judging by awkward tension in the others, they were upset too.


    Jericho frowned, ¡°That is what we¡¯re doing, right? Sparring?¡±


    Arthros¡¯ face was an impassive mask.  ¡°If that¡¯s what you want to call it.¡±


    What is that supposed to mean?


    There was a malicious grin on Graito¡¯s face, and a glint of excitement in Sto''ram¡¯s pupilless eyes. He looked at Randrea but she refused to meet his gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± He nodded.


    Arthros blinked, ¡°Graito.¡±


    The Myrd swaggered up to him with the crown in his hands. There was a sinking feeling in his gut, and dread seeped into his bones at the thought of fighting the pressure again.


    Graito handed him the crown and snickered, ¡°Good luck, she¡¯s the worst fighter in the division.¡±


    The worst fighter? He stepped away to reveal Sto''ram crouching in a battle-ready stance. In her hands was a long quarterstaff, capped by black steel on either end. The tendrils from her temple writhed with an angry energy and the gills on her neck flared.


    ¡°Put on the crown, Jericho, we¡¯ll start the session when you¡¯re ready,¡± Arthros commanded.


    With a regretful grimace, he placed the crown on his head. He motioned for the crown to activate and in an instant the familiar neurological weight returned. It forced him to his knees but this time the pressure didn¡¯t feel as bad, lighter in a sense.


    Or maybe he was just getting stronger.


    He dispatched the pressure with practiced efficiency, dividing the neurological onslaught between him and his AI. He rose from his kneeling position and laughed at how effortless it was becoming.


    Sure, his vision was a little blurry, and his other sense felt off, but he was getting significantly better. He gave the onlookers a sloppy grin.


    Arthros didn¡¯t acknowledge his effort and watched him with a cool eye. ¡°Are you ready?¡±


    The words sounded like they came from a great distance away. Jericho tried to focus on the commander, but there was a weighted blanket covering his brain, everything seemed a little duller.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± The words dribbled from his mouth and Sto''ram attacked.


    A violent swing of the quarterstaff nearly took his head off, but he ducked just in time and the air above his hair whistled. He tried to move fast, but it was useless; he could barely manage an awkward shuffle.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get a weapon?¡± Is what he tried to say, but the words came out a slurred mumble.


    He tried to leap backward but fell hard on his rear. It was enough to save the side of his head. The next attack came even faster, and it struck him on the shoulder when he tried to roll away.


    He screamed out in pain as the force of the blow tore into his rotator cuff, throwing chunks of flesh and bits of bone onto the floor. The power behind the attack nearly lifted him off the ground, and it sent him sprawling on the hard floor.


    He couldn¡¯t fight like this; the crown inhibited every electrical signal his brain tried pump into his muscles. The only reason he was alive was because of the instincts that had been ingrained into his body from a young age.


    He needed the guidance of the thread, but all he could imagine was his mother¡¯s scabbed hands wrapping around his neck.


    He shouted in pain and anger as he rolled over onto his back, his injured arm lying limp on the floor. Sto''ram struck again, and he lashed out his foot just in time to parry. The kick sent pins and needles down the length of his leg, but it was enough to send the staff bouncing back.


    The stunned look on Sto''ram¡¯s face was all the motivation he needed, and his vision cleared a little. Tied around his ankle was the ethereal thread, beckoning him to follow.


    He obeyed.


    Before the staff could collide with his head, he kicked out again. His boot connected hard on her black-scaled chest and he heard the familiar crack of broken bones.


    It wasn¡¯t enough to stop the quarterstaff from slamming down into his head. For a moment his vision swam and darkened, but he could see Sto''ram¡¯s struggling shape as she wheezed for breath.


    He could smell his mother¡¯s rotten breath as she whispered cruel nothings in his ear.


    He lunged onto his feet, but the sudden movement made him dizzy. Don¡¯t stop.


    Sto''ram was wheezing, her webbed hand clutching at her broken ribs. She glared at him, and the tendrils writhed angrily from her temple. She readied her quarterstaff for another strike.


    He would have to attack first, slip inside the range of the quarterstaff and strike up close. He took a single step forward, vomited, and passed out.


    ***


    Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Vomit splashed onto the floor, and Sto''ram stumbled away to avoid the puddle of filth. Arthros kept his gaze fixed on the human, and he willed him to take another step.


    Jericho did not.


    The human crumpled into his own bile. Sto''ram blinked her pupil-less eyes and turned to face Arthros. The twin¡¯s encouraging cheers fell silent, a faint snicker came from Graito.


    ¡°He¡¯s dead.¡± Sto''ram said, not bothering to hide contemptuous pride in her voice.


    Arthros maintained impassive expression. He heard Randrea mutter a curse under her breath, and caught an uncharacteristic look of distress on her face.


    ¡°Take him to the physician.¡± He commanded.


    No one moved. He looked around at the group, no one dared to look him in the eyes.


    ¡°He¡¯s dead Commander, look at his skull,¡± Graito sneered.


    Jericho¡¯s head was split open in a gruesome fracture. Blood and other fluid leaked from the wound and mixed with the vomit.


    ¡°He¡¯s not.¡± Arthros insisted, ¡°It will take more than that to kill him.¡±


    More silence. More doubt.


    ¡°Commander,¡± Sto''ram said hesitantly, ¡°He¡¯s gone. I¡¯ve studied human physiology, if he¡¯s not dead now, he will be soon.¡±


    ¡°Then I guess you¡¯re running out time,¡± He growled.


    For a moment his expressionless mask slipped, and his features contorted with rage. He felt the muscles in his neck tense as he fought to maintain his composure.


    It was too late; the others caught his look of fury. Randrea and Graito stepped back. Sto''ram looked scared.


    He couldn¡¯t be dead, not yet. He tried to listen for the human¡¯s heartbeat, but his own blood was pumping so furiously it drowned everything else out.


    The others were staring at him, wide eyed and unsure. Their hesitation only fueled his frustration.


    ¡°Go, now!¡± He bellowed.


    There was no further argument. Randrea ignored the foul puddle that Jericho was soaking in and gently picked him up. He watched them take the body away, and for a long moment he stood in the arena thinking.


    By all facts of the matter, Jericho should be dead, but he knew in his gut that the human would live Jericho possessed a determination so viciously stalwart, it was like nothing he had ever seen. The indomitable human spirit.


    He stared at the pool of blood and filth, and his rage vanished into smoke, like a snuffed candle.


    Arthros smiled.

 Chapter 25 - Jericho

    Chapter 25  ¨C Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 1,044 Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    It wasn¡¯t the thick tube shoved down his throat that woke Jericho up, but a wet touch on his forehead. His sleep was dreamless, and it felt instantaneous. He half expected to wake up on the training court and his body tensed instinctively to dodge another attack from Sto''ram.


    As his eyes flew open, Sto''ram¡¯s black scaled face was only a foot away from his, her hand placed gently on his forehead. This was his first time seeing a Titulonist up close, and truth be told it wasn¡¯t a pleasant experience.


    Her skull was human-like, but her face more closely resembled a rodent, and he wasn¡¯t entirely sure where her mouth was. Her bulbous black eyes were the real source of his discomfort. They were disproportionately sized and took up over half the space on her head. They were black orbs of nothing, and it was impossible to truly tell where her focus was. Underneath her eyes, were the strange tentacle-like appendages that writhed like sentient worms.


    He desperately hoped the tentacles wouldn¡¯t touch him.


    She grabbed the tube protruding from his mouth and pulled. The sensation wasn¡¯t like anything he felt before, both satisfying and extremely uncomfortable. As if a thousand splinters were being removed from his internal organs at the same time. He choked and gagged as the device was removed. He caught a glimpse of its spider-like shape dripping in saliva and internal fluids.


    ¡°Did I frighten you?¡± Sto''ram placed the device beside her. ¡°You jerked when you woke.¡±


    ¡°No, I just- I thought I was still in the arena.¡± His throat felt raw, and his words came out in a rasp.


    The Titulonist gave him a toothless smile that did nothing but creep him out, ¡°You¡¯re in the med bay, somehow alive.¡±


    The disbelief in her voice did not bode well, and he his hands flew up to hair, ¡°My head¡­¡±


    ¡°I cracked it open like melon.¡± Sto''ram sniffed, ¡°you should be dead.¡±


    ¡°But how?¡±


    The Titulonist¡¯s globe-like eyes started to rapidly dart around the room, an there was an uncomfortable expression on her face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± She said quietly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you how,¡± A deep, harsh voice said from somewhere in the room, ¡°because I¡¯m the greatest physician in the galaxy.¡±


    A flicker of annoyance passed over Sto''ram¡¯s features. Behind her was the oldest Hokkonian Jericho had ever seen. His hairless skin sagged like loose clothing. But his sunken eyes glinted with obstinate intelligence.


    ¡°Or it was the Trilboroth.¡± Sto''ram snapped. ¡°You act as if you didn¡¯t whine to me that he was too far gone.¡±


    A congested growl came from the elder, ¡°You overstep pilot, this is still my clinic. I don¡¯t care how helpful you are, I¡¯ll dry you out before you can swim to Arthros and complain.¡±


    Jericho looked at the old Hokkonian and back at Sto''ram who seemed completely unperturbed by the threat.


    ¡°Uh- what is a Trilboroth?¡±


    The elder limped over, ¡°My invention, Trilboroth comes from our primordial language. It translates to ¡®Tril¡¯s breath of life¡¯. It catalyzes rapid cell regeneration through the assimilation of your blood vessels and capillaries.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but who reconstructed it to match a human¡¯s physiology?¡± Sto''ram snapped.


    The Hokkonian¡¯s spines quivered, but failed to erect, ¡°You corrupted my masterpiece, that¡¯s nothing to be proud of.¡±


    ¡°So that thing, it regenerated my brain?¡± Jericho asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± they both said in unison.


    ¡°That¡¯s unbelievable.¡± He murmured.


    How many pit fighters did he watch die from injuries that could have easily been fixed? This Trilboroth could save thousands of lives back on Kleth¡¯altho. Tens of thousands!


    The old Hokkonian shooed the Titulonist out of the clinic, and she obeyed without a fight. Probably glad to be free of the cantankerous alien¡¯s presence.


    Jericho wished he could join her. Instead, he was stuck in bed, and he stayed there for the remainder of the day.


    The physician wasn¡¯t afraid to voice his displeasure of treating a human. He made sure to constantly remind Jericho that he wasn¡¯t untouchable, and if he wanted to, he could deny an order from Arthros.


    Jericho highly doubted that was true.


    He stayed the night and dreamt of Kyrin. She was there on Hokku, alive and smiling. She fed him and laid with him in the bed. She took care of him while he recovered and whispered soothing words in his ear.


    He woke to a feminine voice, and for one foolish moment he expected to see Kyrin standing in the entrance.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Randrea asked with a smile.


    He blinked the sleep out of his eyes and did a mental check of his pain. There wasn¡¯t any. ¡°I feel good.¡±


    She nodded and walked over to his bed.


    ¡°Did I say you could come in here?¡± The physician said, suddenly appearing from the corner of the room, ¡°Visiting hours are-¡°


    ¡°Can it Strathos.¡± She snapped, ¡°He¡¯s discharged, I¡¯m taking him out, isn¡¯t that what you want?¡±


    The old physician frowned and mumbled something about respect. He limped back to whatever task he was working before Randrea showed up.


    The female Hokkonian rolled her eyes and held out a hand, ¡°Come on kid, vacation is over.¡±


    Her hand enveloped his, and she pulled him effortlessly to his feet. Her eyes widened and she turned away quickly. ¡°You might want to put some clothes on.¡±


    Oh my god, I¡¯m naked!


    He yelped and grabbed the blanket from his bed. He looked around for his possessions, and saw a bundle stuffed with his clothes seated on a shelf beside his bed. He pulled on his clothes, and when he saw Randrea¡¯s shoulders shaking from laughter, he willed himself to die.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry I barely saw anything,¡± she mused.


    He didn¡¯t believe her, but at least she seemed to be back to normal. ¡°Where are we going?¡±


    She turned around and lifted a hairless eyebrow, ¡°where do you think?¡±


    He just shrugged dejectedly. A few more hours of rest would have been nice, but he was in no position to complain.


    She looked down on him like a stern teacher, a disturbingly good impression of Arthros.


    ¡°Don¡¯t expect this to get any easier,¡± Her stern expression evaporated into a playful grin, ¡°so when Sto''ram splits your head open again, try to enjoy the sleep when it comes.¡±


    ¡°She was trying to kill me.¡± He muttered.


    Randrea shrugged, ¡°For good reason, we all found out about your little secret. Not that it really changed the outcome of the fight, we¡¯re all going to be trying to kill you at some point.¡±


    He froze, they all knew. Is that why she was being strange with him before?


    He hurried to catch up and glanced up at her. ¡°So you know then?¡±


    She didn¡¯t¡¯ look at him, ¡°Yep.¡±


    ¡°That I¡¯m unbound.¡±


    ¡°Mmm hm.¡±


    He waited for her to say more, but she kept her gaze locked down the hall. ¡°I still don¡¯t really understand it myself.¡±


    ¡°None of us do, it¡¯s never happened before,¡± She shrugged again.


    They walked in silence for a few more minutes. Jericho tried to think of something to say, but he couldn¡¯t think of the right words. He enjoyed speaking with Randrea, and he didn¡¯t want to strain the tentative friendship he assumed they had with the wrong words. Yet, the pressure of her presence was too much, and he felt the unbearable need to fill the awkward silence.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want the others to look at me differently.¡± He managed.


    As soon as the words left his tongue, he knew it was a stupid thing to say. Obviously, they were going to look at him differently, they already did before they knew about his Synaptic Ranking.


    Randrea stopped and looked at him with odd expression that he couldn¡¯t place, ¡°Do you know what a monkey is?¡±


    Jericho frowned, unsure what a monkey had to do with anything. ¡°A monkey? Like the animal?¡±


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    ¡°Yes, like the animal.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about them, they¡¯re primates from Gasaan.¡±


    The female folded her arms, ¡°Well imagine you¡¯ve been told that you¡¯re special, and I mean top of the star system kind of special.¡±


    Jericho fought the urge to tell that he¡¯d been told the very opposite.


    ¡°And one day your mentor flies to Gasaan and brings back a monkey, a stupid, dung-flinging animal.¡±


    He winced at her vehement bitterness and wondered where she was going with this analogy.


    She continues, ¡°You think to yourself, a monkey? Surely my mentor isn¡¯t going to favour a brainless primate over me!¡±


    Jericho¡¯s heart started to sink.


    ¡°And then, you find out that not only is your mentor giving special treatment to the monkey, but the beast is also special.¡± She placed a finger on his chest.


    Jericho swallowed and licked his lips. He opened his mouth to reply but the feeble response he was trying to muster died when Randrea brought his face close to his.


    Her eyes were pale white, and her irises storm grey. There was sadness in them as she searched his own. ¡°And that¡¯s when you realize that you¡¯re never going to be better than that monkey. No matter how hard you try, the monkey will one day surpass you.¡±


    His mouth was dry, and he longed to caress the soft lines of her face. He didn¡¯t care that she didn¡¯t have a human¡¯ nose, or that she had grey skin. He didn¡¯t even care that her head was hairless and covered in spines. She was beautiful.


    In that moment, he thought of Kyrin. The grief that had been suppressed by the AI hit him like a hammer blow, and he felt his heart constrict painfully.


    ¡°You are that monkey, Jericho.¡± Randrea muttered.


    She gave him another painful jab with her finger and turned away. He watched her walk down the hall, fighting through the thunderous cascade of emotions. He spent his entire life surviving in the pits, alone and afraid. He finally found someone who loved him, and he threw that away for a promise of greatness. Now Kyrin was dead, and he was a long way from home, in a place where he didn¡¯t belong.


    He missed his dad.


    ***


    He shuffled into the training arena, keeping his gaze diverted from the others. Sto''ram was standing in the middle of the painted circle, while the others lounged on the bleachers that overlooked the area.


    It was impossible to tell what Arthros was thinking, and Randrea refused to look at him.


    Jericho couldn¡¯t find it in him to speak, so just motioned for the crown. At least this time he would be ready.


    Ready was an exaggeration. He still crumpled to his knees when Arthros activated the crown, but with the help of AI, he was able to overcome the pressure even quicker than before. That revelation encouraged him and helped to clear away the somber muck that muddied his thoughts.


    He had to focus if he wanted to survive. Be somebody!


    Sto''ram started her deliberate approach towards him. He eyed the quarterstaff in her hands and longed for the familiar weight of his ARC blades at his sides.


    ¡°Do I atleast geta weapon?¡± He slurred.


    Arthros shook his head, Sto''ram approached.


    ¡°So, whatdo you expectme to-¡± An unexpected lunge from his opponent cut him short.


    He dodged, narrowly the quarterstaff¡¯s jab that would have punctured his lung. That would have been an embarrassing start to the spar.


    ¡°You should not need weapons when sparring with Sto''ram, she is by no means a combat specialist.¡± Arthros droned.


    An overhead strike that ruffled his hair as he ducked. Sto''ram was feeling him out, testing his reaction speed.


    ¡°Ah come on Commander,¡± Graito mocked from the sideline. ¡°I don¡¯t think he¡¯s much of a combat specialist either. He can''t even walk!¡±


    ¡°Neither could you¡± Randrea sneered, ¡°you looked as graceful as a newborn cervidae during your first spar.¡±


    Jericho was grateful for the backup, but he was inclined to agree with the Myrd. With his sluggish movements he just barely rolled out of the way of an overhanded strike. The capped end bounced hard off the solid rubber floor with a thwack. This fight was going to end as bad as the last one if he couldn¡¯t get his legs to move properly.


    You¡¯re that monkey, Jericho.


    He gritted his teeth, was that really how they saw him? A half-brained beast? Frustration made him antsy, and he acted on impulse. He dodged another jab and dove forward to tackle her.


    Sto''ram let out a yelp of surprise and stepped back with surprising speed. His lunge brought him off-balance, stumbling to his hands and knees.


    A dung-flinging animal.


    The Titulonist spun the staff, and it sang a tune of death as it whistled through the air. A second later she brought it down in a devastating overhanded strike.


    Instincts forced him to roll, and instead of a killing blow, the staff caught him in the meat of his forearm. The crack of his bones echoed through the arena, and he clenched his teeth as he screamed. The sound came out as a muffled squeal.


    He pushed himself to his feet and fought the nausea that was now threatening to overcome his focus. He tried to square his shoulders and brace for the next attack but the pain in his arm was too much. It hung at his side uselessly.


    Sto''ram didn¡¯t move. She watched him carefully, waiting to see what he would do with the broken arm. Behind her, Arthros stared at him, silently judging his every move.


    ¡°You¡¯re that monkey, Jericho.¡± Randrea¡¯s words continued to echo in his mind in cruel repetition.


    He didn¡¯t want to look at her, but he couldn¡¯t help it. His gaze was drawn to her despite the opponent in the ring. They made eye-contact and in a subtle motion, she tapped her temple with her slender forefinger, the ethereal thread was tied around her wrist.


    Shame replaced every other emotion like a layer of black paint. How could he whine and complain when is father was still missing? When Kyrin was dead? He had the opportunity of a lifetime, and he was watching it slip through his finger like sand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever worry about what people think about you.¡± His father had murmured.


    With a newfound fire, he started reassessing the situation. How was he going to make it out of here alive? Everything thing was a clue and a tool he could use to win.


    His arm. The arena. Sto''ram and her staff.


    He allowed himself a moment of respite within the depths of his own mind and could sense each individual tendril of the crown¡¯s pressure. He was almost at his limit, both physically and neurologically.


    But his AI¡­


    He sought out the computer and its bottomless well of its power. In a shocking moment of clarity, he realized the AI was far from capacity. He had only just tapped into its strength.


    Jericho didn¡¯t understand what happened next, but as he dipped into that pool of energy, he felt the pain leave his arm like a vacuum sucking it out of his nerves.


    He gasped at the sudden relief. All sensation vanished, including his ability to control it. But it didn¡¯t matter, the debilitating pain was gone along with the brain fog he had felt earlier.


    ¡°And that¡¯s when you realize that you¡¯re never going to be better than that monkey. No matter how hard you try, the monkey will one day surpass you.¡±  Randrea¡¯s voice echoed.


    He gave Sto''ram a sloppy grin. He was that monkey.


    The weight was gone, his pain had vanished. He was a new man, a reinvigorated fighter. He bounced on his toes and saw the ethereal thread tied around her neck.


    Sto''ram stopped her approach, her orb-like eyes frozen on his, ¡°Your AI has eliminated the sensation in your arm.¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on Sto!¡± Fydither scoffed from the bleachers, ¡°not this early.¡±


    Scor and Flux murmured in agreement, but Arthros said nothing.


    Sto''ram tilted her rodent-like head, ¡°your pain is gone, isn¡¯t it.¡±


    Jericho nodded. He didn¡¯t¡¯ care to hide it, the relief made him giddy.


    ¡°Arthros told me your integration speed was unparalleled to the rest of our crew, including even me. A symptom of your unbound psymetra? I have never felt so betrayed and so fascinated in my entire life.¡± The black scaled alien was shaking.


    Without warning she lunged forward, faster than she ever had before. Too fast for him to dodge. The end of her staff cracked his ribs and drove the breath from his lungs. He fell on his back gasping for air and clutching his chest. He tried to scramble away but Sto''ram planted a wet foot on his broken ribs, the pressure ignited the pain to an unbearable level and despite himself he screamed.


    ¡°You have been gifted with an ability that exceeds any of us, and yet even now I can overpower you,¡± Her soft and watery voice was filled with malice and fury. ¡°It is beyond my comprehension.¡±


    She pushed even harder on his chest.  The broken edges of his ribs and sternum rubbing up against each other. Why did his integration speed even matter? Just a few hours ago Sto''ram was gently shaking him awake and now she was standing over top of him ready and willing to knock his head off.


    ¡°It¡¯s not fair, you¡¯re just a human. You¡¯re weak. You¡¯re nothing.¡± She snarled.


    ¡°Sto.¡± Arthros¡¯ low warning sounded miles away.


    Jericho grabbed hold of her leg; he was barely able to get a grip on the slick scales. ¡°I¡¯m not.¡±


    He ignored the searing pain in his chest, and pulled his face closer to Sto¡¯s, ¡°I¡¯m going to be greatest the pilot alive.¡±


    He twisted violently. The movement caused her foot to slip off his chest. As she started to fall to the ground, Jericho launched himself from the ground and drove his shoulder into her torso.


    The air was driven from her lungs and her body went limp as he crashed down on top of her. She stared up at him in shock and let out a strangled shout of pain when he drove his knee into her throat.


    He still had one good arm, and he used to rain punches into her face. His hand hurt, his ribs hurt, his head felt like it was swimming in thick soup, but he didn¡¯t dare stop.


    Sto''ram stopped struggling and he slowed his assault until eventually he ran out of steam. He was having a hard time catching his breath, he couldn¡¯t continue.


    His chest heaved and sweat dripped off his face. The Titulonist wasn¡¯t moving, and for a moment he wondered if she was dead. He glanced up at the others, they were staring at him in shock. Arthros said nothing, his gaze was as cold and calculating as ever.


    ¡°I did it,¡± He mumbled.


    The Titulonist started to laugh beneath him, and he stunned to see a smile on her bloody face. ¡°You might be unbound, but you¡¯re still a human, weak and non-threatening.¡±


    She bucked her hips violently which flipped Jericho forward. The adrenaline that had been fueling his muscles was gone and he tumbled to the floor in an awkward heap.


    ¡°I¡¯m impressed, Jericho.¡± Sto''ram stated loudly. ¡°You pushed yourself to the limits and I think we can all agree that it was an admirable effort. But it¡¯s time to give up.¡±


    He ground his teeth and wormed his way onto his back so he could look at Sto''ram, ¡°No.¡±


    Sto''ram¡¯s ruined face looks confused, ¡°but here I am, and there you are, on the ground.¡± She flourished her staff in her hands and stabbed it into the ground to emphasize her point. ¡°And I am the weakest fighter amongst our division.¡±


    Jericho swallowed. He was so close. He looked at Randrea, and then to Arthros.


    The Commander was watching with a face like stone, his eyes unreadable. Yet, in that moment, he gave Jericho the tiniest nod.


    He could do this.


    ¡°Not yet,¡± Jericho said and with a rumbling groan he pushed himself up to his feet. ¡°I¡¯m not done yet.¡±


    He lifted his chin to lock eyes with Sto''ram and to his satisfaction, the smile on her face curdled.


    He stumbled towards her like an inebriated cripple. ¡°Your opinion of me is worthless.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re just a human.¡± Sto''ram growled.


    He had to laugh then, ¡°who cares? I¡¯m unbound.¡±


    He charged her, but he was as slow as a toddler. The black scaled alien dodged his attack with ease and brought an overhand strike down on the shoulder of his good arm. The blow crumpled him to the ground. His energy reserves were at zero, even with the Ai¡¯s assistance.


    He couldn¡¯t react in time as Sto''ram planted her foot on the back of his head. She stopped down, and he felt his nose break as his face was ground into the durable rubber floor. Blood flowed into his mouth, and he choked on its viscosity.


    She forced him to roll over with a sharp kick. He squinted at the harsh overhead lights as he stared up at Sto''ram. Her face was shrouded in shadow, but the glint of anger in her eyes was unmistakable.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you when I wake up Sto,¡± he sputtered.


    ¡°Not this time.¡± She raised the staff above her head.


    He would survive this; he did last time. Surely the Trilboroth could regenerate his brain a second time.


    She brought the staff down, and Jericho squeezed his eyes closed.


    Arthros barked a sharp command, ¡°Sto''ram, stop.¡±


    Jericho wasn¡¯t sure if the command saved his life because the staff collided with his skull all the same. Everything went dark.

 Chapter 26 - Arthros

    Chapter 26 - Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    There was no stopping the staff from striking Jericho across the head, but Arthros could tell that Sto''ram tried her best to lessen the impact. The blow still knocked him prone, and he twitched in silence.


    ¡°Commander-¡± She started.


    ¡°Drop the staff,¡± He commanded.


    She hesitated, and he didn¡¯t blame her. He had never intervened before; it went against the very nature of their program. Jericho wasn¡¯t strong enough; he should be dead.


    Yet theoretically his strength should exponentially improve, until he¡¯s strong enough to take them all on, maybe even stronger than Arthros himself.


    It was that future that Arthros was investing in, and he was using the respect of his comrades as currency. He could only hope that they¡¯ll understand, one day.


    Sto''ram was transfixed by Jericho¡¯s still form, and he could tell by the tension in her muscles that she longed to deliver a killing blow. Under normal circumstances she wouldn¡¯t dare disobey a direct order, but her judgement was inhibited from her own impatient frustration. He would have to take irritation-fueled unpredictability into account from now on.


    When she tightened her grip on the staff, he barked an order at the twins, ¡°Scor, flux, take him back to his quarters, I want him prepped for recovery within the hour.¡±


    The sudden sound of his voice had the intended effect, shaking Sto''ram from her trance. The staff slipped from her grasp and clattered harmlessly to the floor.


    He heard the slow scuffle of hesitant footsteps and turned to see the twins gaping at Jericho¡¯s unconscious figure. The others were doing the same, even Graito who¡¯s sneer was replaced by slack jawed bewilderment.


    ¡°What in Tril¡¯s name was that?¡± Fydither broke the silence, a disconcerted look in his slanted red eyes.


    Graito slowly shook his head, ¡°Like watching a rat chew its own arm off.¡±


    ¡°Well?¡±


    Randrea shook her head, ¡°I know why you let him live, but we have our rules for a reason.¡±


    He met her fiery gaze, ¡°and they don¡¯t apply to this one.¡±


    Fydither kept his eyes down, but Graito met his eyes full on.


    ¡°Don¡¯t apply? Graito stood on his two hind legs and raised himself up to his full height, still barely reaching Arthros¡¯ chin. His torso rippling with corded muscle as he did so. ¡°But they applied to her, you had no problem watching her die.¡±


    Arthros walked up to the Myrd, there was a pained expression on the alien¡¯s face. He felt his heart go out to the pilot, but now was not the time to deal with it. The Myrd had to know his place.


    ¡°Did you not watch that fight?¡±


    Graito was silent, and for a few heartbeats, they stared at each other. The Myrd¡¯s resolve eventually crumbled, and he sank under the weight of Arthros gaze.


    ¡°Do any of you understand what happened?¡± Arthros asked the others.


    They all kept their eyes down except for the silent giant Dight, who only shuffled uncomfortably on his massive legs.


    He let out a sigh and shot a look at the Titulonist, ¡°Then maybe Sto''ram will have to explain things for you again.¡±


    The black-scaled alien was still staring at her staff, a furious look on her face. ¡°He¡¯s different. I saw it when his brain rejuvenated, and we all saw it now. If he possessed more stamina, who knows when he would have stopped.¡±


    ¡°He fights until his last ounce of strength.¡± Arthros said, ¡°Now combine that with his affinity for neural integration.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll surpass us,¡± Randrea said in a quiet voice, ¡°he only needs time.¡±


    The other pilots said nothing; it wasn¡¯t hard to decipher their thoughts with the look of betrayal in their eyes.


    ¡°I need you all to trust me,¡± Arthros said.


    ¡°We do, sir,¡± Graito said, staring mournfully at the floor, ¡°but don¡¯t expect us to trust him.¡±


    Randrea placed a comforting hand on the Myrd¡¯s shoulder. An awkward silence fell on the group, and he felt his own resolve start to crack. He was losing their respect with every broken rule. He didn¡¯t blame them. He just had to believe that it would all be worth it. He had to trust his instincts.


    Movement in his peripheral caught his attention, and he glanced to see the Admiral standing at the far end of the training facility by the exterior door.


    ¡°You¡¯re all dismissed.¡± He growled.


    They dispersed immediately. Randrea and Graito headed for a space to spar while Fydither flew over to Dight and rested lightly on the back of his head, yelling orders for the big beast to march. Dight paid no attention to the Ordanian and lumbered at his usual pace for the exit, probably on his way to the mess hall.


    Arthros smoothed his white wraps and realized he wasn¡¯t wearing his Commander''s uniform. The needlessly bright blue and gold colors were harsh on the eyes and brought unwanted attention to himself. Not to mention the stiff material was extremely uncomfortable. Admiral wouldn¡¯t care for that excuse.


    ¡°Admiral!¡± He called and strode confidently over to meet her.


    The admiral raised her eyes and swept her gaze up and down. ¡°Commander. I would ask if you just got out of your HWND, but I¡¯ve been here for the last half an hour.¡±


    He blinked, ¡°I-¡±


    The Admiral held up her hand, ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it Arthros. Proper uniform attire is the least of my problems with you.¡±


    She tightened her lips in a small smile, and they both knew that it was true.


    ¡°What can I do for you Admiral.¡±


    The Hokkonian female gave him a long look and her stern features faded, ¡°I have bad news.¡±


    His heartbeat quickened, ¡°what kind of bad news.¡±


    ¡°Two more HWNDs were destroyed, and their pilots killed.¡±


    A shiver ran down his back, and the familiar cloud of dread returned to hang over his head. ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not good, Arthros. The high table is meeting right now to discuss. You know that intel they tried to hide?¡±


    How could he forget. When he returned from his guard duty, they had denied the intel again. Claiming it was punishment for his bad behavior. Zludikai had to drag him out of the cathedral as he thrashed and spit at the pompous idiots.


    He grunted and the Admiral grimaced, ¡°I managed to get it. A few territories beyond in the neighboring systems have been obliterated by a reptilian war-driven species known as the Shadari. They¡¯ve systematically conquered each star, planets and all before advancing to the next.¡±


    Arthros frowned, ¡°Is there any pattern to their attacks?¡±


    Zludikai shook her head, ¡°If you count linear as a pattern.¡±


    ¡°Conquering linearly,¡± Arthros mulled the words, ¡°that would imply that they¡¯re searching for something, an ideal world maybe?¡±


    ¡°No idea. They¡¯re a shamanistic civilization, they¡¯re probably looking for some deeper meaning, magic or a lost god?¡±


    Arthros snorted, ¡°Maybe it was magic that helped them cross the Storm.¡±


    The Admiral sighed, ¡°The two pilots that were killed. They were protecting a representative of the high table. Because of your discovery on Reloculan, they were sent to accompany her. It was a routine meeting on Ordan to discuss the increase in tariffs. ¡±


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    He tapped the tips of his teeth together, ¡°and the representative?¡±


    ¡°She lived, and she saw the entire thing. She use the word ¡®lizard¡¯, said the monster was a little bigger than us. Get this, the lizard had a companion.¡±


    A darkness swirled in his core; he knew exactly who the companion was. ¡°A human female.¡±


    Zludikai nodded, ¡°Your union woman. She was there.¡±


    It was happening, sooner than he ever could have imagined. The Union had just declared war. The Sovereignty was not prepared.


    ¡°What is the high table thinking?¡± Arthros tapped the tips of his teeth together as thought about her words, ¡°we need to act quickly.¡±


    Zludikai hesitated, ¡°They called for the mass withdrawal of all Hokkonian troops from Union space, that includes our stations along the perimeter.¡±


    ¡°And?¡± A mass withdrawal could mean a gathering of troops somewhere else. Along the Storm¡¯s edge, maybe to hold the breach like a choke point.


    She bared her teeth in a frustrated grimace, ¡°That¡¯s it. They¡¯re scared. They know we¡¯re weaker than we¡¯ve ever been. They¡¯re pulling them back to Hokku.¡±


    He physically recoiled from the shock, and he didn¡¯t bother to hide the disgust on his fast, ¡°No, we¡¯re not doing that.¡±


    Zludikai grimaced and made a helpless gesture with her hands.


    ¡°No! You can¡¯t let them do that Zludikai. We have to strike before it¡¯s too late. If we pull our troops from the perimeter stations, we¡¯ll have no idea if the Union brings in more of those lizards.¡±


    ¡°I tried to tell them, they won¡¯t listen.¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t have to listen!¡± He bellowed, ¡°The Navy has always had it¡¯s autonomy- ¡°


    ¡°I told you that wasn¡¯t the case anymore!¡± She snapped, ¡°Even now Admiral Zlaydoss is transmitting the command. He¡¯s always been in their back pocket.¡±


    Arthros pounded his forehead with clenched fists and didn¡¯t bother to stop his spines from standing on end, ¡°They¡¯re going to flatten us! It only took one of those freaks to kill four HWNDs! Imagine an entire army. An entire army with the Union¡¯s financial support! We don¡¯t stand a chance.¡±


    He glared at Zludikai, and to his surprise she looked defeated. The uncharacteristic look of weariness did more to unsettle him than the news of the coming war. There was more, news she was unwilling to tell him.


    She could barely hold his gaze. ¡°Hokku won¡¯t fall. Not if we pull everyone to the surface and generate the shields.¡±


    The shields? The impenetrable planetary shields that would ensure Hokku¡¯s survival while simultaneously dooming the rest of the star system. That option was a last resort, not a kneejerk reaction to the loss of four HWNDs.


    ¡°Obviously they won¡¯t be able to breach the shields, I was talking about our ability to protect Dromedar.¡± He spoke.


    She couldn¡¯t bring herself to look at him, and his gut twisted like he swallowed rotten meat. They wouldn¡¯t possibly dare make that call now.


    Recognizing the horror on his face, Zludikai¡¯s expression only grew grimmer, ¡°the shields will go up in three days, Admiral Zlaydoss figured that would give allow enough time to pull everyone to the surface. Stragglers¡­¡± She shrugged, ¡°Stragglers will have to do their best in orbit, but they¡¯ll be caught between the Shadari and our guns.¡±


    So that was the real reason why she came to speak with him. Why she had looked so shaken as she approached. The Soverignty ordered a death sentence. Not just for those too slow to react to the order, but to the rest of Dromedar.


    ¡°We promised to protect them.¡± Arthros whispered.¡±


    Zludikai spines trembled, ¡°They¡¯re allied with the Union, if anything this could save lives.¡±


    She was coping of course. She knew as well as he did, that the invaders would simply turn on the Union the moment they were no longer useful. Dromedar would become a blood bath, and it¡¯s planets conquered. Civilians would be slaughtered, and those left alive would be enslaved. He almost laughed at the irony. Slave masters fighting against slave masters. Killing each other over possessions like children arguing over toys.


    His oath to protect Dromedar was the only thing he truly cherished. The Shadari wouldn¡¯t take that from him.


    ¡°Send my division out to Kleth¡¯altho. We¡¯ll find the invader, and we¡¯ll kill the Union woman.¡±


    The admiral shook her head, ¡°the order already went out- ¡°


    ¡°To withdraw from Union space. Kleth¡¯altho is not apart of the Union, and Terminus-14 is anchored in their orbit. They allow the station there in an agreement of good faith, that¡¯s all.¡±


    He stared into her eyes, and watched hope slowly return.


    ¡°We would risk ruining our relationship with the Corpos.¡± She said slowly.


    Arthros snorted, ¡°we don¡¯t have a relationship with them. They hate us, trust me I was just there. Besides, there won¡¯t be a Corpos if we don¡¯t do anything.¡±


    She tapped the tips of her teeth together thoughtfully, ¡°you don¡¯t have much time.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need a lot.¡± He said definitively.


    She studies him with her pale eyes, weighing the options and coming to the same conclusion that he did. If she didn¡¯t allow him to go, she would effectively be breaking her oaths.


    ¡°We need to scout the Reloculan surface, and make sure things are as dire as they seem. Perhaps this is all an overreaction.¡±


    An overreaction was an understatement. The shields hadn¡¯t been raised since the crusade. To generate them now, after a few dead HWNDS¡­ the thought made him sick to his stomach.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to Reloculan, I¡¯m tired of delegating and watching. If we¡¯re all going to die anyways, I¡¯d rather do it in my HWND.¡±


    For a moment it looked like she was about to argue, ¡°fine, if you find the invader don¡¯t engage him yourself. We just need to locate his position.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t think I could take him?¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re the only one in the galaxy who could, but I don¡¯t want to test that theory. In 24 hours mobilize you¡¯re division, I¡¯ll give them the intel on Kleth¡¯altho. Contact me as soon as you can.¡±


    Arthros took a deep breath. It was no small matter to authorize a mission of such importance, especially to division eight. Zludikai caught the look in his eye, and grimaced.


    ¡°An honor that must remain secret, were risking a court martial even discussing this mission let alone carrying it out.¡±


    Arthros¡¯ face cracked in a crooked grin, his attempt at a smile, ¡°well it¡¯s a good thing you¡¯re sending us. If we fail, you can just blame it on our reputation.¡±


    The admiral didn¡¯t disagree, though the sentiment made her uncomfortable. She clears her throat with a quick and subtle cough. ¡°I would prefer if you didn¡¯t make me do that, so don¡¯t fail.¡±


    ¡°I never do.¡± He said with a respectful incline of his head.


    With that, she turned on her heel in perfect military fashion and marched out of the room. Back straight, shoulders square, and chin lifted as if she didn¡¯t just commit treason. As if she didn¡¯t just agree to a suicide mission.


    A loud victorious shout shook him from his thoughts, and he turned around to see a weaponless Randrea pinned underneath Graito.


    ¡°What¡¯s the record?¡± He called over to them.


    ¡°784 - 783¡± Graito gurgled excitedly back, ¡°for me of course.¡±


    Randrea rolled out from underneath him, and with an acrobatic jerk of her hips, she launched herself from her hands to her feet.


    ¡°Forgetting about Siphel again?¡± She dusted off skin tight pants.


    Graito¡¯s smile melted into a sour frown, and he cursed in his native tongue.


    Despite her loss Randrea let out a belly laugh and clapped the Myrd on the back. ¡°784-786¡± she gave a pointed look at Arthros, ¡°for me of course.¡±


    He acknowledged the statement with a curt nod, and hurried out of the arena. Behind him he heard Randrea ask for a rematch, to which the Myrd emphatically accepted.


    He strode quickly through the brightly lit corridors that zigzagged like a maze. He scowled at all the turns and unmarked doors and cursed Hokkonian architecture for it¡¯s needlessly confusing building style.


    He finally arrived a door marked engineer¡¯s emblem. The room was massive, to the unexpected it would be incomprehensible. Its high arching ceiling nearly matched the cavernous architecture of the training arena and its length extended to the limits of Arthros own vision. The air was thick with the smell of burning oil and smoke. The sounds of crashing metal and the high pitched whine of power tools instantly filled his ears.


    Though the room was immense, it felt congested with various mechanisms, and the shells of HWNDs. A workstation was laid out every 20 yards, giving just enough room for an engineer or a team to work on a HWND.


    Everywhere Arthros looked the massive mech suits could be seen in every stage of development. Some were in the process of being built, while others were undergoing repairs. As he marched across the room he could feel eyes on him, but he paid no attention.


    His reputation here was quite polarizing. Some loved him for the innovative and unique challenge he brought to them, while the others despised him. Though that wasn''t anything out of the ordinary, his requests went above and beyond their responsibilities, and they feared the consequences of working with him. But there were still a handful of engineers who were crazy enough to build HWNDs for aliens. They were a rare and strange bunch of engineers who could care less about the political integrity of their culture. They shared a burning desire to push the limits of their craft and any unique request Arthros brought them they accepted with an eagerness that almost made him uncomfortable.


    ¡°Ah Commander!¡± came a raspy voice, ¡°come to check on our progress?¡±


    A thin looking Hokkonian appeared through the haze, his navy blue overalls were covered in soot and grime. He was grinning from ear to ear, and the spines on his head quivered but remained flat.


    ¡°Benetrosh,¡± Arthros dipped his head, ¡°yes, I¡¯m afraid the deadline has been shortened once more.¡±


    The engineer¡¯s smile faded as he tapped his teeth in an exaggerated thoughtfulness, ¡°how much time do we have?¡±


    The truth was devastating, he knew they would never be able to complete the HWND in time, but it didn¡¯t have to be completed it just had to be serviceable. A lie would be better.


    ¡°If Tril is good to us, four months.¡±


    ¡°Neuro bridge testing alone will take over a year, not to mention the bio-mechanic hydraulic system, we''re talking about human physiology here.¡±


    ¡°Four months Benetrosh, maybe less.¡±


    The engineer gave him a long stare, slowly flicking his tongue off the tips of his teeth. The skinny Hokkonian cracked a deranged smile and clapped a dirty hand on Arthros shoulder, ¡°you love to make life difficult for us Commander, don''t you.¡±


    He gently pushed the hand away, ¡°can it be done?¡±


    The engineer let out gasping croak of a laugh and beckoned for Arthros to follow him. ¡°I put that Aopriordian in a HWND didn''t I? And everyone in the shop thought Tril was going to drop you dead for that abomination. Me along with you!¡±


    The engineer cackled again and ducked under a thick cloud of steam, before appearing a few feet to the left, his eyes brimming with mischievous pride. ¡°There''s a reason I was excited to see you in the shop.¡±


    Through the haze Arthros could just barely make out the silhouette of a HWND, one much smaller and slimmer than usual Hokkonian piloted rigs.


    ¡°After you told me of your dream for a much smaller pilot,¡± Benetrosh winked, ¡°I designed this shell and had it constructed for just this scenario. Once we heard you had arrived with the new cadet, I dusted it off and got to work.¡±


    ¡°Benetrosh¡­¡± Arthros murmured, staring in wonder at the HWND.


    ¡°We¡¯ll have it ready in time, Commander.¡±


    Arthros looked at the gangly engineer, a newfound appreciation in his heart for the strange fellow.


    ¡°On to the more important question, weapon modifications.¡±


    Arthros didn¡¯t have to think about the answer, ¡°Two ARC blades. Get those completed first.¡±

 Chapter 27 - Cyprus

    Chapter 27 ¨C Cyprus


    Psychosomatic Output: Unavailable


    Synaptic Rank: Unavailable


    Cyprus drummed her fingers against the console of her ship and stared into the hypnotizing chaos of the Storm. She still couldn¡¯t believe that Recli flew through the death trap. Even the Hokkonians were caught off guard. Recli never would have made it to Terminal 14 if they anticipated a possible breach.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to get yourself killed,¡± She muttered, checking the radar for the hundredth time.


    Of course, the Shadari were late; that was just her luck. The last thing she needed was a Hokkonian patrol discovering her in a restricted area. They probably had her signature flagged in their system for her participation in the merchant raid, and they were definitely on high alert from the carnage on Ordan. For all she knew there was a bounty on her head, while Recli lounged on Reloculan.


    Cyprus sighed and checked the radar again, still no sign of a Hokkonian patrol. She squinted into the swirling mass of charged ions and dancing colors, willing the Shadari ships to materialize. She imagined The Storm sounded like the crackle of flames, popping and snapping at those unfortunate enough to enter.


    A button on the center console flashed, an incoming transmission from Terminal 14. She stared at the blinking light with a frown. Who would possibly be trying to hail her from the station? She had warned the replacement crew not to contact her while she was gone, but maybe there was an emergency.


    She accepted the transmission with an exasperated grunt and was surprised to hear Recli¡¯s guttural hiss.


    ¡°Cyprus?¡± the voice seemed to chill the entire cockpit like an icy draft.


    Despite her dread-induced goosebumps she lunged at the console with a snarl and hissed her response into the microphone, ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing calling me through an official channel?¡±


    Recli¡¯s lurching animalistic laughter filled the speakers, ¡°Reloculan has no long-range communication, and I was curious if you were still alive.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m still alive, but I won¡¯t be when the council figures us out,¡± She snapped.  ¡°Which should be any minute now that you patched a Reloculan transmission through an official channel. You know they listen to this, right? It¡¯s all recorded.¡±


    A deep breath cooled her initial frustration, but her fists remained clenched as she imagined Giantis reading the transcripts.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter anymore; your people were going to find out sooner than later with a war brewing on their doorstep. Besides, how did you plan on bringing the undamaged HWND back with you?¡± Recli mused.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know- tactfully! This is serious; you killed two Hokkonians on Union soil! I needed time to plan out- ¡°


    ¡°Distance between us has made you brave.¡± Recli¡¯s voice lost its humorous edge, ¡°have my people arrived yet?¡±


    The ominous rumble of his words extinguished her fury like a candle in a tempest, ¡°No.¡±


    Her meek reply was met with silence that lasted for an uncomfortable amount of time, and the urge to fill that silence became almost unbearable.


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    ¡°If I wait any longer, I might be caught by a patrol,¡± She ventured.


    The words sounded lame the moment they left her mouth, and she winced at the continued silence.


    Recli ended her torment with a single rasping cough. ¡°My warriors will be there, you don¡¯t have to fear the Hokkonians. I have been working closely with an engineer here. He has a solution for our HWND problem.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s that much a problem. You handled two on your own, and there are more of your kind coming, we¡¯ll easily overwhelm the rest.¡± Cyprus replied.


    Another mucus-filled cough, ¡°You¡¯re more of a fool than I thought if you believe that. These HWND pilots are incredible warriors, you need to respect them.¡±


    Cyprus blinked, ¡°And you do?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Recli barked, ¡°are you so ignorant to dismiss their strength? You were there on Ordan, sniveling like a whelp while I dealt with them, did it seem easy?¡±


    An image of Recli¡¯s defeated form and the Hokkonian pilot standing over top of him flashed in her mind. ¡°No, it didn¡¯t.¡±


    His contemptuous sneer crackled through speakers, ¡°I tire of your mental limitations. Tell me, what do humans think about besides reproduction and food?¡± A long, hacking cough interrupted his words, followed by a deep snarl, ¡°Don¡¯t answer that!¡±


    She hung her head like a scorned student, accepting his beratement with sheepish helplessness. He was clearly in a terrible mood, and she would take a Hokkonian patrol over angering him further with a thoughtless remark.


    She opted for a safe response, ¡°How many of your kind are there? The Hokkonians are strong, but they lack numbers.¡±


    ¡°We are numerous, but the rest of my kind are not like me. The HWNDs will cut them down; it¡¯s my job to ensure that doesn¡¯t happen.¡± He hissed.


    That word made her pause, ¡®his job¡¯? She knew he had come to Dromedar for a reason, but he rarely spoke of his intentions. Why let it slip now?


    She decided not to press it, ¡°What¡¯s the solution?¡±


    ¡°One that would allow for a more immediate response.¡± He muttered, ¡°I don¡¯t have the patience to hide and wait.¡±


    The transmission ended before Cyprus could ask any more questions. She had to be more careful; there was something off about Recli, besides the fact that he was a bloodthirsty monster. His mental status was slipping, and on more than one occasion, she caught a crazed, unstable light in his eyes. One wrong step and she¡¯d have to rely on Recli¡¯s crumbling self-control not to kill her. Not to mention his cough¡­ that was only getting worse.


    Now more than ever, she needed to get the captured HWNDs back to Gasaan, where they could be researched and replicated. She had a creeping suspicion that with Hokku gone, another enemy would take its place.


    A warning light flashed on the console, and her stomach dropped. She whipped her head up to watch The Storm through the viewport and caught sight of four ships. They materialized as though the ion phenomenon had birthed them.


    She cleared her throat and opened a wide channel transmission. ¡°Sslid a¡¯ danssi.¡±


    She recited the words Recli had forced her to memorize, though she probably butchered the pronunciation.


    ¡°Sslid a¡¯ danssi,¡± A shadari voice answered, ¡°Are you here to guide us to Recli?¡±


    She licked her lips, ¡°Yes, he sent me to collect you. We¡¯ve established a base of operations on a planet not far from here.¡±


    ¡°Excellent, Recli has done well, the empress will be pleased.¡±


    Cyprus smiled weakly as the ships began their speedy approach. They were significantly larger than Recli¡¯s but still held a crude and brutish design. She itched to run a deep scan and let her ship¡¯s computer fully analyze the rig¡¯s capabilities. Dromedar only knows how the reptilian monsters would react to an invasion of their privacy.


    ¡°Well, we better get going. There¡¯s going to be a Hokkonian patrol anytime now.¡±


    ¡°Let them come.¡± The Shadari answered, ¡°We could use a good fight.¡±


    Cyprus¡¯ voice nearly cracked, ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea, I mean, to start a fight now would ruin Recli¡¯s plans.¡±


    The Shadari laughed and Cyprus sent a silent prayer to whatever God would listen. She was determined to live through this!


    Her jaw dropped as more and more ships began to materialized themselves from the storm, as if her prayers were answered with mockery.


    Recli wasn¡¯t just bringing a few hundred warriors, but the entire Shadari empire.

 Chapter 28 - Kyrin

    Chapter 28 - Kyrin


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    Green smog sat like a stagnant pond around the refinery, surrounding the structure like an impenetrable moat of gas. The stench was enough to drive away unwanted visitors, though Kyrin and the rest of the workers had to trek through every day.


    The interior conditions weren''t much better, and all staff required personal ventilators. But a hazard suit could only do so much; sooner or later, the Rylon found its way through the gear. Kyrin had half a mind to rip the uncomfortable equipment off her face; what was the point.


    The refinery was split into four major sections, each working in unison to produce the barrels of refined Rylon that kept Kleth''altho functioning. The conditions were only slightly better than prison labor yard, but those who put in the effort were rewarded with a roof over their heads and the Government''s nose out of their business.


    Of course, Kyrin had other financial obligations.


    A loud buzzer rang through the building, signalling the end of the workday. The factory broke out in excited chatter as production halted immediately. The people of Kleth¡¯altho were resilient, and the gruelling conditions of their occupation weren¡¯t enough to dampen their spirits.


    However, not everyone was impervious to the workday¡¯s unrelenting grindstone. Many fell victim to the allure of Torpe and the blissful oblivion it offered. For Kyrin, the drug was a necessity; she needed something to lessen her heartbreak.


    Torpe¡­ It was all she could think about¡­


    She needed it as badly as she needed to breathe.


    She wandered out of the factory like a corpse alongside the other torpified junkies. A muted shuffle of feet and ragged breaths echoed through the refinery halls as they drifted in search of their next fix.


    Kyrin staggered outside and ripped the itchy respirator from her face, drinking in the fresh air with choking gasps. Dirty fingernails scraped at the scabs forming on her neck.


    Where could she get more?


    ¡°Kyrin!¡± A human voice bellowed from behind her.


    Her mind was a slurry of agitated desperation and torpe-induced sluggishness, but the commanding bark managed to stop her. She slowly turned to face the human, an older man with a withered beard and pale green streaks of Rylon scars across his face.


    He shouldered his way through the crowd of drug seekers, ¡°Three times I warned you about the mess at your station; you¡¯re done!¡±


    The words sounded distant, but the gravity wasn¡¯t lost, ¡°But I need¡­ Job I need-¡±


    ¡°I have six others who can start in your place tomorrow!¡± He shoved a clubbed finger in her face, ¡°You¡¯re done, don¡¯t come back.¡±


    It took Kyrin a moment to register the situation. Her eyes widened, and she tried to grab the man, but he was already walking away.


    ¡°W-wait!¡± She stumbled forward and tripped, falling hard on her knees.


    The foreman glanced over his shoulder and shook his head in disgust at her crumpled form, ¡°As if I need any more junkies in my crew.¡±


    The cruelty of his words stung, and Kyrin picked herself up off the ground. Something wet rolled down her cheek, and she dashed at it with the heel of her hand.


    No more crying; she was done crying. What she needed now was torpe, that would make her feel better. The awaiting bliss cracked a smile on her dirty face. As she descended the factory''s crumbling stone steps, her dragging foot collided with the other, sending her tumbling face-forward down to the floor of the ravine city.


    She landed hard on the ground, and the impact drove the air out of her lungs. The excruciating pain was enough to sober her, and she let out a rasping wail. Her face was pressed into the dirt, and a burning agony in her arm prevented her from getting up.


    Blood began to drip into her eyes from a stinging gash on her forehead. However, what panicked her the most was the complete loss of feeling in her legs. She began to squirm and thrash, regardless of the broken bone.


    It was as if her legs were gone. Utter terror filled her, and for the first time in a long time, she didn¡¯t think about torpe.


    It didn¡¯t take long for someone to arrive, but they were little help. Beyond calling for additional aid, they could do little to ease her pain and panic. Soon, a crowd began to grow. They watched her with horrified expressions as they whispered to one another. A few pointlessly asked if she was okay.


    She was very far from okay.


    Jericho would have known what to do. He would have gotten her help instead of gawking and gossiping. He would have driven the crowd away and carried her to the nearest medical facility. Why hadn¡¯t anyone done that already?


    It was no secret that the torpe had altered her appearance. She had witnessed its physical effects during her childhood and the slow death of her parents. She remembered the foul odor secreted from their pores and could still imagine the scabs that sloughed off their skin. Every night, her mother¡¯s chapped lips scratched her cheek and left behind a film of bloody residue.


    Near the end, the very sight of them had churned her stomach, but she hadn¡¯t reached that point yet; she still had time. She was beautiful! A head turner, a heartbreaker! How many men and women had she turned away before she met Jericho?


    Yet, as she stared up at the crowd surrounding her, she recognized the disgust on their faces. Sure, many looked concerned, but no one was willing to touch her.


    ¡°Oh, you poor thing!¡± The gurgle of an Ordanian sounded above her.


    She looked up to see the small alien hovering above her, ¡°Please help me.¡±


    The flapping wings stopped, and the Ordanian dropped to the ground by her face. He wasn¡¯t much larger than a child, ¡°Can you move?¡±


    A sobbing hiccup escaped her lips, ¡°No, I- I can¡¯t feel my legs.¡±


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    ¡°Neither can I,¡± a gentleness in the tone dulled the edge of anxiety.


    Kyrin blinked to clear her bleary vision and refocused on the Ordan. He was holding himself up with his arms, and his two legs, atrophied from disuse, lay limp behind him.


    ¡°You don¡¯t see me crying about it.¡± The Ordanian smiled.


    ¡°Y-you can fly, though.¡±


    The small alien ruefully nodded, "We¡¯ll just have to get you your own pair of wings. Wait here; I¡¯ll get my partner.¡±


    He pushed off his arms, and with a single flap of his leathery wings, his rotund little body was propelled into the air. The crowd eyed him warily and continued to whisper. Not a single person made a move to help her.


    The Ordanian¡¯s red eyes scanned the surrounding area, ignoring the growing crowd. ¡°Here she comes.¡±


    He dropped near her head and brought his rodent-like face close to hers. He was elderly, weathered from years of life experience on Kleth¡¯altho. There wasn¡¯t the usual narcissistic sneer that she would have expected from his species. Instead, his red eyes were filled with compassion and concern.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll be able to lift you; I¡¯m not the same Ordanian I was a hundred years ago. But don¡¯t fret, I know someone who can.¡±


    Kyrin was about to question the small alien when a voice like a whip cracked, ¡°What¡¯s going on here? Matto?¡±


    An angry-looking Myrd, she shouldered her way through the crowd, hurling insults and elbow jabs at those in her way.


    ¡°Matto? Are you- Matto!¡± The elderly female gasped.


    ¡°Hello, my dear.¡± The Ordanian grinned up at her.


    The Myrd crossed two arms over her chest, and placed the other two on top of her wrinkled head. Her six yellow eyes looked tired, and her bulbous lips pulled back in an irritated grimace.


    ¡°Matto,¡± her Universal had a heavy accent, ¡°Can¡¯t you see she¡¯s high, we can¡¯t keep bringing these people in.¡±


    Kyrin tried to move, ¡°No, please, I¡¯m sober, I need help; I can¡¯t feel my legs.¡± She started to sob, ¡°I can¡¯t move.¡±


    The Myrd studied her and whipped her head around at the crowd, ¡°and all you cowards sat and watched while this poor thing lay here in pain? Shame on all of you! Shoo! Shoo!¡±


    She took a menacing step towards them, and the crowd scattered. Myrd¡¯s on Kelth¡¯altho were not to be trifled with, even one with her years. She shook her head at the dispersing group and turned back to Kyrin and Matto.


    ¡°If this is some trick to get a place to stay¡­¡± She growled.


    ¡°It¡¯s not I swear,¡± Kyrin begged.


    ¡°Come now my love, she needs our help.¡± Matto pleaded.


    The female rubbed her chin with an offhand, studying Kyrin¡¯s broken form. She lacked the compassion that Matto had, but there was kindness in her hardened face nonetheless.


    Without a word, she stooped to wrap her four arms around Kyrin and lifted her into the air with a surprising effortlessness. Despite the Myrd¡¯s evident age, her strength was formidable.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Kyrin whispered, her body cradled like a newborn.


    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me, thank my partner.¡± The Myrd muttered.


    The Ordanian hovered close and gave her a soft smile. He whispered something, eliciting an eye roll and a slight chuckle. Interspecies relationships were rare, and she had so many questions to ask, though none seemed to be appropriate. She thought about the logistics and feasibility for the duration of the trip, a desperate attempt to ignore the burning pain of her arm and the terror-inducing nothingness of her legs.


    ***


    Kyrin didn¡¯t remember much of the trip. From the torpe withdrawal and the excruciating pain, the entire process was a blur.


    She found herself in a makeshift bed on the floor of a dark room. The bed was nothing more than a collection of blankets, but they were comfortable, nonetheless. However, they did little to distract her from the aches, nausea, and soul-devouring desperation for torpe. She might seek relief elsewhere if she had to go another minute without it.


    Maybe smashing her head through the stone floor would provide some respite from the cravings.


    She tried to stand up, but her legs didn¡¯t respond to the neurons firing in her brain. She groaned and writhed in the blankets, twisting her upper body in every direction imaginable. She scratched and banged on the walls, screaming for someone to help her.


    Nothing.


    Was this what her unlikely saviors had been planning? They intentionally paralyzed her so they could trap her in this room. She had nothing to offer, and without the use of her legs, physical labor was out of the question. Maybe they just wanted to torture her. Yes! It was all starting to make more sense. They pushed her down those stairs. Her pain was their fault, and they would pay for it.


    An animalistic urge to hurt her captors drove her to buck and thrash, and a guttural howl tore from her lips. She dug dirty, chipped fingernails into her forearm and dragged them down her skin, blood pooled in the furrows and dripped off her elbow and onto the bedding. The sensation felt good, and it offered a brief respite from the agony of her withdrawal.


    She began to rip at the soft skin until the door burst open and the Myrd walked in. Her yellow eyes were a strange mix of fury and sadness.


    ¡°Enough.¡±


    Kyrin froze, her blood-stained fingers twitching for more action. The sight of the old alien brought her to tears, and she begged the Myrd for torpe.


    ¡°I don¡¯t carry any of that poison in my house, ¡° the alien scolded.


    Kyrin moaned and gnashed her teeth at the female. If she could just get her hands around the elder¡¯s leathery neck¡­


    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you¡± She whispered.


    The Myrd remained still, studying her with a careful expression.


    A string of obscenities spewed from Kyrins mouth, each one personalized to wound the Myrd the best she could. Desperation silenced her as she caught the glint of a small metal object in the alien¡¯s hands.


    ¡°I can not fight the battle for you, girl.¡± The Myrd whispered, her voice deep and throaty, ¡°But I will do everything I can to make sure you don¡¯t surrender.¡±


    Kyrin¡¯s eyes widened when she recognized the syringe. Hope surged, and a gleeful smile split her cheeks. Blood welled from the cracks on her lips as she held out her hands.


    Torpe.


    The Myrd jabbed the syringe into the muscle just above her knee. The fog on her brain lifted at once, and she could think clearly. The pain of her withdrawal remained, as did her lust for the drug, but her judgment returned.


    Almost immediately the realization of her words and actions struck. She tried to apologize but emotion thickened her throat, and the words came out in heavy sobs. The alien knelt and shushed her, patting her head with one arm while inspecting the self-inflicted wounds with the other two.


    ¡°You can do this,¡± The elder murmured.


    Kyrin grimaced, ¡°I don¡¯t think I can. I need it so bad, I need it more than anything I¡¯ve ever known.¡±


    ¡°You want to see him again, don¡¯t you?¡± The alien with a gentle nudge, ¡°Don¡¯t give me that look, you¡¯ve been screaming nonsensical things for the past three hours. Most of which involved particular human man.¡±


    ¡°I- I¡¯m never going to see him again, he¡¯s gone,¡± Kyrin whispered.


    The Myrd clucked, ¡°You have no idea about anything, do you? Can you see the future?¡±


    Kyrin tried to smile, but a wave of nausea tightened her face. ¡°Uhm, no, I can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Then don¡¯t be stupid and throw yours away.¡±


    Kyrin didn¡¯t know what to say. She stared up at the elderly Myrd and matched the slight grin with her own. There was a look of recognition on the alien¡¯s face, and Kyrin caught a flash of compassion across her yellow eyes.


    She was throwing her future away. It was a future that might involve seeing Jericho again.


    After a few moments, the Myrd left, leaving Kyrin alone with her thoughts. The withdrawal-induced senselessness returned within a few hours, along with her animalistic cravings for the drug.


    The Myrd came back with food, water, and the mysterious medication. Her timing was impeccable, as the pain was driving Kyrin to psychosis. The alien didn¡¯t stay to talk but offered some brief encouragement and advice.


    Kyrin clung to her caretakers like it was the only thing keeping her alive, and it probably was. She was determined to beat the drug and see Jericho again.


    She would do whatever it took, no matter how many brutal cycles of torture she would have to endure.


    The torpe didn¡¯t own her.

 Chapter 29 - Arthros

    Chapter 29 - Arthros


    Psychosomatic Output: 10,000 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: unbound


    Arthros left Hokku in a hurry, careful not to draw too much attention to his departure. He had intended not to tell the others, but Randrea and Graito caught him in the hangar. They begged to come with him, but he refused.


    A single HWND might be able to conduct the recon mission unnoticed; three would absolutely draw attention.


    His ship ascended and shot out from underneath the floating megalopolis. Leaving the weight of the city¡¯s shadow provided an indescribable relief. As if the pressure of his responsibilities only dwelled beneath the shade.


    Orbit security didn¡¯t bother to stop him; why would they? He had the most recognizable signature in the Hokku Navy. The Sovereignty might have labelled him a troublemaker, but he was still a Commander.


    The Reckless zipped through the border and entered open space. He had to take manual control to avoid a close call with a T7-Corvette that circled a little too close to the highway. Arthros glanced out the viewport and blinked in surprise.


    The entirety of the Hokku Navy was swarming the immediate space beyond the planet¡¯s orbit.


    Arthros could hardly believe his eyes. He had never seen all four fleets amassed together. It was a majestic sight, and he couldn¡¯t help the glimmer of pride he felt at the impressive display, though the wonder was short-lived.


    The fleets should be patrolling the borders, not gathered helplessly in Hokku space.


    The Navy comprised four fleets, and each fleet was home to five warships and fifteen T7-corvettes. Sprinkled amongst the various fleets were the seven remaining HWND divisions. Their Novawolfs twisted athletically through the ranks of ships, zipping and diving like a squadron of angry wasps.


    A part of Arthros longed to join the other pilots; what they were doing seemed like fun. Though what sort of pleasure could be derived without the presence of his division. They were the ones he really wanted to fly with.


    He pushed that thought out of his head and focused on the empty space beyond the fleet. Reloculan wasn¡¯t far at top speeds, but it would still take some time to get there. He disengaged the manual controls and handed the Reckless over to Zero.


    The flight to Reloculan only lasted nine hours. He passed the time by digging through the archives Zero found before they had left. He had asked for any mention of a reptilian species in the neighbouring star systems.


    There were eighteen on the Hokkonian record, but only four shared the shamanistic, war-inclined characteristics. Of those four, there was an abysmally low amount of information. None of it was helpful, and it only served to frustrate him. Nonetheless, Arthros was so engrossed in his search that he was surprised when Zero notified them that they had arrived.


    He flicked his wrist to close the archived document floating on his palm and went to the cockpit. Sure enough, Reloculan¡¯s yellow haze shimmered through the viewport. Even from this distance, the globe felt dead.


    More ghost-like than it had been a few nights prior.


    He thought back to merchant¡¯s convoy, and his HWNDs ambush on the raiders. The memory of the ensuing massacre made him wince. Would there be anyone left alive to catch him on the surface?


    ¡°Scan the orbit; I don¡¯t want to fly into any nets,¡± Arthros muttered through his grimace.


    ¡°Scanners indicate a small patrol from the northern hemisphere. Their defence system is virtually non-existent.¡±


    So, they weren¡¯t all dead.


    ¡°Map out a pattern; getting caught on the surface is fine, but we risk everything if we¡¯re caught during entry.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take the AI long to complete the task; the patrol Zero had detected was one of two, and both were too far away to cause an issue.


    Arthros brought The Reckless low to the desert terrain and switched the engine¡¯s power to ensure a more reasonable planetary speed.


    ¡°Keep on the scanners, Zero.¡±


    They skimmed the surface for a few hours and saw nothing but desolate desert and city ruins. There was a point when the planet had been a great power in Dromedar, with a population bursting at the seams. In the early years of colonization, Reloculan was a bitter enemy, and many battles had been fought over the various colonies that either civilization had sent out. That was before Arthros time and long before the existence of the HWNDs.


    It was hard to believe that Hokku¡¯s military superiority wasn¡¯t always evident. Reluclan discovered the hard way how quickly Hokku¡¯s investment in their military paid off. The planet¡¯s desolate remains were a testament to Hokku¡¯s cruel ingenuity and vicious retaliations.


    Ironically, Hokku didn¡¯t look much different.


    ¡°I¡¯m picking up a cluster of biologicals a hundred kilometres east.¡± Zero¡¯s voice tore Arthros from his thoughts.


    ¡°Finally.¡±


    She locked onto the signature, and several dozen dots appeared on the monitor before them. He steered the ship in that direction, and within a few minutes, they were close enough.


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    ¡°Keep the ship running, I won¡¯t be long.¡± He ordered.


    He didn¡¯t bother to wait for her reply and jogged to the back of the ship, where his locker stood waiting. Every Novawolf was equipped with interior access, which allowed a pilot to climb inside their HWND without ever having to land¡ªa particularly useful feature during dog fights or space skirmishes.


    Arthros felt that familiar rush of ecstasy as the HWND powered on. The floor opened to reveal the sandy terrain of Relocuan¡¯s surface, and Arthros disengaged the locking mechanism and the mech hurtled towards the ground. It collided with a dune, sending a plume of sand and dust into the air.


    He climbed out of the divot, his enhanced vision gaining focus immediately as he magnified toward the horizon. A thin trail of smoke was easily visible, the only sign of life on this barren planet.


    He crossed the barren desert in a few seconds and halted on a ridge line that separated him from the source of the smoke. Over the years, he had meticulously refined his motor skills, which served him well. He could creep up the dune in his giant HWND with as much lithe grace as a predatory feline.


    He looked over the ridge of the dune and stifled a curse. The camp was full of Reloculans and great lizard-like beasts. He did a quick count and swore again. Close to a hundred Shadari stalked, lounged, and prowled in the sands.


    So many already?


    That was the consequence of the Sovereignty¡¯s stupidity. The Shadari invaders had already capitalized on Hokku¡¯s mistake; how many lives would be lost because of it?


    All from a single breach point in the Storm, too¡­


    On the far side of camp, he saw a familiar sight, and black hatred rose like vomit in his throat: the union ship that had escaped him earlier, and the blonde-haired woman who had defied him.


    She stood on the landing ramp with another Shadari, one far bigger than the rest. He watched as they argued over something, and then the two of them walked back into the ship.


    The cruiser¡¯s engines roared to life, and the ship sped off.


    So, his suspicions were correct, and the Union was a partner in all of this. He felt sick with rage over the betrayal. Was the Union so quick to turn its back on Hokku¡¯s services? How many pirates and otherworldly forces had they defeated so Dromedar could thrive?


    Just so the Union could ¡®govern¡¯ a star system that rightfully belonged to Hokku.


    A rumbling from below him interrupted his thoughts. The sand around him started to shift, and based on the range of the tremors, the submerged thing was impossibly massive.


    He leapt out of his hiding spot, and the ARC blade slid from its sheath on his arm.


    A giant, hairy appendage burst forth from the sand, directly where he had once been kneeling. Followed by another, and then another, until eight gargantuan legs probed the surface. With a heave, the monster''s body rose above the surface in a thunderous cascade of sand.


    The arachnid was one of the largest biological creatures Arthros had ever seen. Each leg was the length of two HWNDs, and its body matched the Reckless¡¯ entire bulk.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never experienced your heartrate spike so rapidly, did the creature harm you?¡± Zero sounded alarmed.


    Arthro took a tentative step back, unwilling to take his eyes off the monstrous arachnid.


    ¡°Arthros?¡±


    ¡°Would you be quiet?¡± He hissed.


    Zero¡¯s alarm was replaced with confusion, ¡°The bug can¡¯t hear us- ¡°


    A hair-raising chitter escaped the arachnid¡¯s maw, announcing Arthros¡¯ presence to any who was within in earshot. The sound was unlike anything Arthros had heard before, and his spines erected despite himself.¡±


    He sheathed the ARC blade, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m out.¡±


    The Arachnid charged, but he was already bounding away. Even with eight legs, the creature had no hope in keeping up with the HWND¡¯s speed.


    ¡°Bring the Reckless around; we have to catch up to the Union ship!¡±


    The creature galloped behind him, eight legs pounding the sand in spine-tingling rhythm.


    ¡°Are you running away?¡± Incredulity was evident in her tone.


    ¡°Absolutely not!¡± He snapped.


    Cowed, Zero fell silent. A few moments later, the Reckless appeared on the horizon. He ignited the HWND¡¯s pulse engines, and their hum of power drowned out the angry chittering of the arachnid.


    The Reckless sped close, and with an athletic twist of his body, the HWND maneuvered mid-flight to grab hold of the Novawolf¡¯s hull. The instant change in direction nearly ripped his shoulder from his socket, and he felt the HWND¡¯s fingertips slip on the ship¡¯s exterior metal plating.


    ¡°Track the Union ship; we already have the deep scan, so just lock onto the signature!¡±


    ¡°You need to dock first before I exit the atmosphere.¡± Zero¡¯s flat tone responded.


    ¡°Just do it!¡±


    He swore he could hear her sigh, ¡°I don¡¯t like it when you yell at me.¡±


    The ship violently accelerated to meet exit velocity requirements. His grip slipped, and if it didn¡¯t activate the magnetic locks in his feet and hands, The Reckless would have sent him spinning in the wake of its exhaust.


    He crawled along the ship''s hull towards the HWND docking bay like a four-legged animal. The joints of his rig groaned under the pressure, but he could slink his way along the belly of the ship. The pressure from the wind vanished as he crawled into the docking station¡¯s provided shelter. Moments later, the clasps clanged into place, and he could climb out the mech.


    ¡°Did you find the signature?¡± He asked as he ran to the Reckless cockpit.


    Silence.


    ¡°Zero?¡±


    ¡°Working on it, you let them get quite far away.¡±


    He frowned, ¡°Let them? I was never going to stop them.¡±


    ¡°Are we going to talk about the spider?¡±


    Arthros growled a warning.


    A beat later, ¡°Found them.¡±


    ¡°Well?


    A soft chime sounded from the console as a tiny dot appeared on the screen.


    ¡°They¡¯re going to Kleth¡¯altho.¡±


    ¡°Good, send a report to the Admiral and ask her a question for me.¡± Arthros said, still staring at the dot headed for Kleth¡¯altho.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Tell her I want information on Lucas Riley, Jericho¡¯s father, and for Tril¡¯s sake she better give me full clearance, I want to know everything.¡±


    ¡°Yes Arthros.¡±

 Chapter 30 - Jericho

    Chapter 30 - Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 1,044 Bio-units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    Jericho woke on his bed, gagging at the wretched tube running down his throat. He looked around and was surprised to find himself in his own room. Sto¡¯ram and the cranky doctor were no where to be seen.


    Panic ignited in his chest, and he began to claw at the tube. Why wasn¡¯t he with the physician? Did something happen? Was he dead?


    ¡°Easy now, let¡¯s get that feeder out.¡± He heard Randrea murmur.


    In his peripheral, he caught the blurred outline of her form. He tried to turn his head to look at her, but the movement tugged on the tube, and his chest burned in response.


    Randrea moved into his line of sight, her forehead was knit with worry, and there was a strange kindness in her eyes. She began to pull on the tube, and he coughed as the lubricated material slid against his interior tissues. He gagged again as the tube exited his mouth, attached to his lips by a single strand of saliva.


    She whispered something that he didn¡¯t understand, and he caught a look of distaste on her face. His cheeks burned with embarrassment. Of course, it had to be Randrea who tended to him. Where was Sto¡¯ram, or the ancient Hokkonian physician? He¡¯d take that old alien¡¯s racist badgering over his current mortifying display to Randrea.


    He recognized the amused tilt of her lips through the blur of his tears. Are you really crying?


    Randrea laughed, ¡°I¡¯ve only had the feeder once, and it was terrible. We couldn¡¯t prick you with any more stims, so this was the only choice.¡±


    ¡°My stomach feels full,¡± Jericho groans. ¡°It wasn¡¯t like this last time.¡±


    ¡°Well yeah, it¡¯s full of slop.¡±


    She did not just say slop.


    Jericho gave her a weary grimace, ¡°Do I want to know what that is?¡±


    A bright smile broke across her grey-skinned face. " Nope! That¡¯s just what we call it. You should see what it looks like.¡±


    The slop sat heavy in his stomach, like someone force fed him a fist-sized rock. This wasn¡¯t the first time he had the feeder, but it was the first time it felt this uncomfortable.


    ¡°I think you gave me too much.¡± He muttered.


    Randrea pursed her lips, ¡°Very possible, I really don¡¯t know how to work this thing. Arthros is gone on a mission, and that withered old bastard, Strathos, refused to treat you.¡± She tsked and shook her head, ¡°The Cap is going to be pissed when he gets back.¡±


    The thought that Randrea might have somehow messed up his treatment horrified him. How much slop was too much? Would he explode, because it certainly felt like that was a possibility.


    ¡°Aaaaand we had to separate you from Sto.¡± Randrea shrugged, ¡°So you were stuck with him, but hey, you¡¯re awake and breathing, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Jericho wheezed and rubbed at his belly¡¯s taught skin, ¡°barely.¡±


    The female scoffed, ¡°Well, I tried my best; come on, let¡¯s go.¡±


    He gave her an appalled look, ¡°Go? I can¡¯t go anywhere; I feel like I¡¯m about to burst!¡±


    She tsked again and pursed her lips, ¡°That¡¯s too bad because this is your last shot!¡±


    Her tone was so chipper he almost missed it. One last shot? That couldn¡¯t be right; he had just started!


    ¡°Wait, whaaa¡­¡±


    Randrea was already walking towards the door, and his question died on his tongue as he watched her stroll away. The swishing hips, the tight pants, the bare skin on the small of her back that looked all too human.


    She glanced over her shoulder, her pale white eyes filled with an unidentifiable light, ¡°Come on Icho, one last shot.¡±


    Jericho blinked at the nickname, and his heart fluttered. Someone else used to call him that, though it sounded good coming from the Hokkonian.


    Once she disappeared around the corner, he pulled himself out of the hammock with a grunt of effort. Thankfully, the pressure in his stomach seemed to dissipate slightly in the upright position. He hurried to the small closet near the door and grabbed a fresh uniform.


    He hopped from one leg to the other as he struggled to squeeze himself into the tight fabric. ¡°Are we going to the training area?¡±


    Randrea poked her head back into the room, unconcerned about whether he was fully clothed. ¡°Well, we¡¯re not going to your graduation ceremony,¡± she said.


    He tried to ignore the heat in his cheeks, and he smoothed out his uniform, ¡°Right, okay, I feel good about this one, I¡¯m ready.¡±


    Yeah right! What¡¯s different now than last time?


    The female was already marching down the hall, and he hurried to catch up with her. She stopped so suddenly that he nearly collided with her back.


    ¡°What- ¡°


    Randrea whirled on him, ¡°We don¡¯t have much time, watch this.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±  She was so close to his face now that he could see tiny spines lining the underside of her eyes.


    A tablet was shoved into his hands, and when he glanced down his eyes widened in surprise. On the screen was an image of Sto''ram standing in the training area, her quarterstaff a blur.


    ¡°What is this?¡± He asked.


    Randrea placed a hand on his shoulder. Her forehead was creased and her mouth pressed in a tight line. Her eyes searched his, and he willed himself to maintain eye contact.


    ¡°What we¡¯re about to do is against the rules; if you tell anyone, I will deny it, and you¡¯ll be killed.¡± She whispered.


    What we¡¯re about to do? Jericho swallowed.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± He asks.


    ¡°I swear ¡®Icho, it will be my word versus yours.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I get it, not really, but yeah, not a peep.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be executed on the spot, seriously you won¡¯t even have time to understand it¡¯s happening.¡±


    ¡°I said I get it!¡± Jericho snapped.


    Satisfied, she drew away and tapped on the screen, and a video started to play. It was a clip from his bout with Sto''ram¡ªfull speed at first and then a slowed version after. Randrea tapped the screen again, and the video restarted.


    Jericho gasped and mimicked her actions, rewinding the video again.


    ¡°Do you understand?¡± She asked, her voice a hushed growl.


    Of course he did, he was a pit fighter. He learned by watching and studying. Without that crucial element it felt like he was going into every fight blind. Now he could study or at least learn something in the brief time he had before the next session.


    ¡°How much time do I have?¡± He murmured; his eyes glued to the screen.


    ¡°Half an hour, I woke you up early.¡±


    She scratched a spot on her neck and then ran her palm over the erect spines on her head. Something was wrong, a problem significant enough to bother her. Why else would she risk breaking the rules? Then a thought popped into his head, yanking him from his focus on the video.


    One last shot.


    ¡°Randrea?¡±


    She grunted and lifted an eyebrow.


    ¡°Why did you tell me this is my last shot?¡± He lowered the tablet and frowned at the female, ¡°I just got here.¡±


    The Hokkonian tapped the tips of her teeth together as she hesitated to speak.


    She wants to tell me; I can see it. I just need to convince her, cute face or charming face?


    He pulled his suave expression, flexing his jaw and lowering his eyebrows. At the same moment, Randrea opened her mouth to speak, paused to give him a confused look, and then continued to talk.


    ¡°Because if you don¡¯t win, you¡¯ll be left here.¡±


    That dropped the charm from his face like a pebble kicked off a cliff. He tried to ask her what she meant, but the intensity of gaze left him speechless. All he could was stare at her dumbly.


    ¡°That¡¯s all I can tell you; you¡¯re not a pilot yet and I¡¯m already breaking enough rules sneaking you this tab. Arthros would skin me alive if I broke confidentiality.¡± She flicked her tongue off the top of her sharpened teeth, ¡°Don¡¯t lose.¡±


    She didn¡¯t wait for him to reply and turned to leave down the hall in the direction of the training arena.


    He had half an hour.


    ***


    Unsure what to do with the tab, he stashed it behind a few supply crates he found conveniently in the hall.  He would have to hurry now to make it in time, but the extra minutes were worth it. If he closed his eyes, he could envision a few of Sto''ram¡¯s sequences.


    He could do this! What were the last ten years of life for if it didn¡¯t amount to a victory against Sto¡¯ram? He raced through the hall, mentally repping the fight. She didn¡¯t do well if he got close, and she was quick to counter.


    Dodge the overhead strike, parry the backswing, and jab at the opening!


    The sequence always started slower, and then picked up to impossible speeds if he let her go. He had to count each strike and lash out during an opening.


    Initially, her speed had been so overwhelming he didn¡¯t think there was an opening. Yet, after watching the slowed-down footage, there were many. She was gifted of course, or else she wouldn¡¯t be in Arthros division, but it was her mind that the Commander valued.


    Physically compared to the others, she was below average at best.


    The doors to the arena slid open soundlessly, and he was surprised to find the entire division waiting for him. He was even more surprised to see that Arthros was absent.


    Randrea stood at the forefront, her hands clasped behind her back. When she locked eyes with him, the corners of her mouth twitched in a quick smile. The twins stood behind her. One had the other in a headlock but paused their wrestling match to wave. Fydither looked bored and lounged on Dight¡¯s wide, knobby back. Sto''ram sat cross-legged on the floor, her bulbous eyes closed. Graito had a disgruntled expression and refused to look at him.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°Step onto the floor, Jericho.¡± Randrea¡¯s voice was neutral.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Arthros?¡± He glanced around the cavernous room, hoping to see the Commander approaching from the other entrances.


    ¡°Just do as she says, human,¡± Graito growled.


    No one reacted to the hostile comment, so Jericho gritted his teeth and obeyed. He refused to let his race be an insult. He was a human and he was proud of it!


    ¡°Arthros has given me full authority while he¡¯s away,¡± Randrea said, her voice maintaining a controlled impassiveness.


    The comment seemed to surprise the others. Fydither leaned up from his prone position on Dight¡¯s back, and Sto¡¯ram ended her meditation with an abrupt jerk of her head. Do they not know where he is?


    ¡°Jericho, until now you¡¯ve been given special treatment. That ends today; I cannot, in good conscience, prevent your death should you fall at the hands of Sto¡¯ram. That has been our custom since the foundation of the HWND program.¡±


    The words echoed in the arena and the controlled air seemed to drop several degrees. The twins looked uncomfortable while Fydither and Graito shared a smug look.


    He searched Randrea¡¯s face for any shred of regret, her lips were pursed, jaw clenched, but her eyes glinted with an unrecognizable light.


    So, this was it, it really was his last chance. There was no way Sto¡¯ram would hold back now.


    ¡°However, Arthros did give me another order.¡± Randrea¡¯s eyes flicked briefly to the others.


    Did she seem nervous?


    She took a deep breath, and her tongue swiped across her bottom lip, ¡°If you do manage to defeat Sto¡¯ram, you¡¯ll be granted official Pilot status.¡±


    The reaction was immediate.


    The ground shook from Dight¡¯s outraged stamps, Fydither shot into the air, and Graito whirled on Randrea. The twins took several steps away from the group, while Sto¡¯ram stared daggers at Jericho.


    Gratio rose to his hind legs to reach Randrea¡¯s face, lips curled in a snarl, ¡°What? No! Ran that¡¯s not how we do things!¡±


    The female Hokkonian calmly looked past the Myrd, ¡°This is your last chance, Jericho.¡±


    ¡°Hold on, that can¡¯t be true!¡± Fydither wailed and a rumbling agreement emitted from Dight¡¯s circular maw.


    Graito grabbed Randrea¡¯s arm, ¡°He has to survive against all of us! What about the gauntlet, the simulation test, or the neuro-bridge exam? Those are the rules!¡±


    For a moment her expressionless mask slipped, and she shook free of the Myrd¡¯s grasp with a dark look. She turned her furious look on the others and barked, ¡°Arthros¡¯ orders.¡±


    Those words cowed the others, and their protests diminished to muted grumblings. Even Dight¡¯s massive feet ceased their protesting stomps, and he returned to his typical statuesque stillness.


    Only Graito refused to back down. His four yellow eyes glowed with malice and frustration. The sinewy muscles in his back tensed, and for a moment Jericho expected him to attack.


    Randrea returned his challenging stance with a cool look and folded her arms across her chest. She arched a hairless brow in a wordless question. Are we going to do this?


    The twins carefully walked behind Graito and placed firm hands on his back. Their gentle touch startled him, and his wide head drooped a little as he relaxed. He dropped back down to his four-legged stance, and his two upper arms folded across his chest.


    He mumbled something to Randrea that Jericho didn¡¯t catch, and the twins escorted him back to the spectator¡¯s zone.


    The Myrd shook off the twins, and shot a look at Jericho, ¡°So this is what it¡¯s come to? No wonder we¡¯re a laughingstock around here.¡±


    Jericho clenched his fists and met his accusatory glare. Go to hell you ugly mutt.


    ¡°Graito is right, Ran,¡± Fydither mumbled, ¡°We¡¯re supposed to be elite, the best of the best, and yet we¡¯re going to allow a human into our ranks if he bests Sto? No offense Sto, but I could inject a canister of Torpe and still beat you. I love Arthros as much as anyone, but this is too far.¡±


    ¡°He has his reasons,¡± she said simply.


    Fydither had no response, and no one pressed the issue. The Ordanian openly spoke out against Arthros¡¯ order, and that was as far as anyone was willing to go. Jericho couldn¡¯t help but agree; so far, he had shown them nothing; why wouldn¡¯t they be embarrassed?


    All he had to do was prove them wrong now.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get on with it,¡± Jericho announced.


    Every gaze swung to him, and he lifted his chin in confident acceptance of their attention. Randrea stepped forward and reached behind her back with both arms.


    Jericho gasped in surprise when she drew two ARC blades, his ARC blades. The same ones he thought he had lost on Kleth¡¯altho. He had been meaning to question Arthros on their whereabouts, and figured they were still sitting in his locker back home.


    They looked like daggers in her large hands, and tears stung his eyes as she handed them to him. The weapons were the last connection he had to his father and just seeing them was enough to unleash a waterfall of memories and emotions.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be fighting with your blades now, you¡¯ve mastered the neurological pressure from the crown, there¡¯s no sense it letting your training continue without your weapons.¡±


    A sob threatened to burst from his mouth, so he kept his lips clamped shut as he accepted the weapons. He checked the others for any silent protests but their expressions remained neutral. Most likely he would have been given the weapons regardless of Arthros¡¯ interference.


    The blades were a comfortable weight in his hands, and he relished the feel of the leather-bound hilts on his palms. The ribbed steel, reinforced for armor-piercing capabilities, caught his smiling reflection. He checked the edge of one, and an invisible force stopped his thumb half an inch away.


    ¡°The weapons were lined with a protective barrier, to prevent slashing and stabbing,¡± Randrea explained.


    Makes sense, though there was no doubt the blades could be lethal with the right amount of force.


    A few moments later she brought the crown over and carefully fit it on his head. Without warning, the crown was activated, and the familiar neurological pressure engulfed him.


    This time, he didn¡¯t even wobble.


    His ability to handle the pressure had grown so rapidly, that even the other pilots were muttering about his improved tolerance.


    Once they were both within the training square, the perimeter lines glowed a pale green before fading back into their usual white. He studied his opponent, soaking in every detail before his final fight could begin. Her sequences flashed in his head.


    You can do this.


    Randrea gave him a nod and a beat later, the starting chime echoed through the arena.


    Sto''ram was on him in an instant and wasted no time with a barrage of blows. Her quarterstaff was a blur as she flourished, slashed, and stabbed. The steel caps failed to make contact as Jericho deflected each blow with the flat edge of his blades.


    It was the first time he managed to escape her whirlwind of strikes unscathed, and it left Sto¡¯ram shocked.


    He took advantage of her surprise and aimed a powerful kick at her chest. The blow sent her flying to the ground, but she had the momentum to tumble into a backward somersault. She was back on her feet a beat later, though she didn¡¯t retaliate immediately. Her strange eyes swirled with anger as she glared at him.


    ¡°Does the reality of your inevitable death fuel you?¡± She sneered, ¡°No matter how hard you fight today, you will lose, and the HWND program will be rid of you.¡±


    Blood was rushing so loudly in his ears that he had trouble hearing her, his chest heaved from the adrenaline and the energy it took to parry the first onslaught.


    Don¡¯t listen to her words, focus on her sequences!


    She advanced on him again, though like before her staff never found its mark. Every time he heard the loud clack of his blades intercepting the reinforced wood of her weapon he was surprised. He was parrying each strike on intuition and anticipation alone. He looked for the thread, but the blur of her quarterstaff was all he could see.


    He counted the flurry of attacks in his head, waiting for the inevitable opening in her sequence. When it came, he stepped close and drove a knee hard into her gut. She doubled over with a wheezing gasp, and Jericho raised both his blades over and brought them down hard on the back of her exposed neck.


    Impossibly, Sto''ram¡¯s quarterstaff whipped up to intercept the protective edge of his blades. His feet were kicked out from under him, and he landed heavily on his back, instinct made him parry the stab that would have crushed his face.


    He rolled out of the way of the second stab and scrambled to his feet to intercept the next attack but his opponent held back.


    She seemed perplexed and for a moment she just stared at him. He caught the unmistakable expression of confusion on her alien face and recognized the sudden epiphany of understanding that lit in her eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been studying.¡±


    She knows.


    He lifted a blade with an exaggerated smirk and pointed it at her, ¡°Nah, I¡¯m just that good.¡±


    ¡°You should be dead. Twice I¡¯ve caved in your skull. Today will be the third.¡± She snarled at him, and mucus dripped from her teeth and onto the floor.


    His chest heaved, and his lungs burned. His head throbbed in memory of his defeats. Around her neck was the glowing thread, a message from fate.


    He took one calming breath and shook his head. ¡°Not this time, I figured you out.¡±


    Sto''ram frowned, but behind her Jericho saw the slight smile on Randrea¡¯s face.


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    Come at me, bitch.


    She leapt at him again and Jericho managed a grim smile as he proceeded to deflect her attacks. He had successfully goaded her into another attack, now all he had to do was survive. Count, dodge, parry, strike. Count. Dodge. Parry. Strike. COUNT. DODGE. PARRY. STRIKE.


    He thrust his right ARC blade and slipped it past her defense, the protected point broke her ribs with an audible crack, and she let out a howl of pain. She disengaged and rapidly put distance between them, clutching her injury with a look of fury.


    For the third time he escaped her attacks without so much as a bruise. The thread glowed around her neck, calling out to him. It practically lured him forward, but he kept his feet rooted to the ground. The last thing he wanted to do was defend himself against another blindingly quick series of attacks, but it was the only way to defeat her.


    Patience.


    With an unearthly shriek the Titulonist flew at him, and he braced for another attack. This time her movements were different.


    Instead of an overhead strike, her quarterstaff whipped around and caught him with a side-swipe into his arm. There wasn¡¯t much muscle behind the blow, but it was enough to numb his grip on his blade.


    Focus!


    Count, dodge, parry-, she hit him again, this time instead of a jab, she went low and caught him in the meat of his thigh.


    His knee buckled but refused to be distracted. Count, dodge-, her quarterstaff swung down and shattered the top of his foot. Count-, she feigned an attack on his left arm and instead swung her staff upward, catching him under the chin.


    The blow brought stars to his eyes, and he crumpled to the ground. From the ground she brought the staff hard on his ribs, a vengeful move that cracked his ribs just as loudly as her own.


    Move. You must move.


    The staff struck his knee, and the hard bone of his kneecap seared with fiery agony.


    Move, Jericho, move!


    He managed a roll and Sto''ram¡¯s staff harmlessly thudded off the ground. He struggled to stand only to receive a kick in the small of his back that sent him stumbling forward.


    Normally he could have caught his balance, but the neurological pressure of the crown continued it¡¯s oppressive dulling of his coordination. He felt hard on the ground, sprawling on his belly.


    You¡¯re going to die if you don¡¯t move. He coughed, and blood splattered on the floor.


    ¡°Are you going to die on the floor like a groveling slave?¡±


    The taunt fueled him to his feet and he shifted his weight to his good leg.


    He looked up at Sto¡¯ram and recognized the triumph on her face, even worse, he saw the disappointment on Randrea¡¯s.


    Maybe he really couldn¡¯t do it, even the least adequate fighter in Arthros¡¯ division was too much for him. Even when he had a real strategy, Sto''ram bested him with brute force.


    Sto''ram¡¯s birdlike features upturned in a mocking somberness, ¡°Have we finally discovered your breaking point? Are you ready to quit? Tell you what human, I¡¯ll spare your life if you admit that you don¡¯t belong here. Say it with me, I¡¯m not good enough.¡±


    His injuries ached, and when he looked at his opponent the thread around her neck pulsed as if it longed to disappear and abandon him to his doom. He was so tired, tired of losing, tired of putting everything he had into a situation where the outcome was inevitable. Perhaps it really was time to give up.


    He could envision his mother standing behind him and the cruelty slithering from her mouth. You¡¯re worthless.


    It was Scor¡¯s voice that surprised them both, ¡°Pilots don¡¯t quit.¡±


    The Hokkonian was staring at him, his face uncharacteristically somber.


    His brother nodded beside him, ¡°We endure.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯ve reached your limits, just take another step,¡± Randrea urged.


    Their words drowned out the ghostly whispers of his mother, and with the help of his AI, he cut off the pain receptors in his injuries. He tightened his grips on his blades and squared his shoulders. Sto''ram tore her gaze from the others, her face contorted with rage. She leapt at him once more.


    Count, dodge, parry, strike-, her staff glanced off his shoulder. Her speed was still too much for him to handle, but he refused to let it get in his head.


    Count, dodge, parry, strike. He landed a blow on her upper arm. Count, dodge, parry, strike.


    Just take another step.


    Count. Dodge. Parry. Strike.


    Pilots don¡¯t quit.


    Count. Dodge. Parry Strike.


    We endure.


    Count. Dodge. Parry. Strike.


    He was moving faster than he ever had before; his reflexes were reacting with perfect timing to create an impenetrable defense. His instincts were fueling his technique, and he was striking in impossible windows.


    Even so, Sto''ram managed to land a vicious swing from her staff, and the strike snapped the bone in his arm. Without pausing, his AI numbed the injury, and he kept fighting.


    You might have reached your limits. He parried an attack.


    Another strike landed hard on the top of his shoulder, the same arm that was broken and he felt the joint dislocation. Even with the pained artificially eliminated, the arm wasn¡¯t functional. He had to end the fight now if he stood a chance.


    So just take another step.


    He let out a yell, an accumulation of his frustration, pain, and adrenaline. He ducked under a swipe aimed for his temple and used his lower body position to propel upwards. With the blade still in his hand, he uppercut with his functioning left arm, and his knuckles collided under her chin.


    His fist slipped off her mucus covered scales but not before he felt the subluxation of her jaw. She stumbled backward from the punch and couldn¡¯t react in time as Jericho hurled himself at her.


    He drove his shoulder into her stomach, and she let out an audible whoof as the air was forced from her lungs.


    They both landed on the ground with Jericho on top. With his one good arm he rained blows on her face, head, and neck.


    The last time they had fought, he wasn¡¯t strong enough to deliver the force he needed, but this time, he felt different. It was as if he had unlocked a new level of strength from a source he was unsure of.


    Every ounce of his remaining strength went in to his desperate onslaught. He couldn¡¯t¡¯ let up, this was it, his final moment. If he stopped, and Sto¡¯ram was still conscious, he wouldn¡¯t be able to stop her.


    His shoulder was sore and stiff by the time Randrea dragged him off the Titulonist¡¯s limp body. The female Hokkonian was saying something to him, but his ears rang, and he heard nothing. His legs buckled, but Randrea¡¯s grip was like steel, and she held him up.


    She took his face in her hands and yelled at him, plastering her face with a crazy smile. Through the haze of fatigue, he barely managed to register their proximity.


    The ringing in his ears started to fade as Randrea¡¯s voice became audible over the thunderous rush of his pulse.


    ¡°You did it Icho.¡±


    He stared at her dumbly and slipped from her grasp where he collapsed to his knees. Sto''ram¡¯s unconscious body was still lying where he had left her, and he felt a deep sense of accomplishment bubble inside of him.


    He tried to listen for the mocking malice of his mother¡¯s voice, but the witch was as silent as Sto¡¯ram.


    The twins swept in, whooping and shouting their congratulations. Even Dight and Fydither offered their brief cheers.


    Beyond the group, Graito was staring at Sto''ram. The look on his alien face impossible to read.


    I did it Kyrin. I really did it.

 Chapter 31 - Jericho

    Chapter 31 - Jericho


    Psychosomatic Output: 1,182 Bio-Units


    Synaptic Rank: Unbound


    It only took a few hours in the med bay to heal his broken body. Thanks to the Trilboroth flooding his veins and the diligent work from Strathos, he left feeling better than ever.


    Of course, he still had to endure the old Hokkonian¡¯s belligerent racism, but anything was better than the slop Randrea had given him earlier.


    He stepped out of the door as he stretched his arms above his head, relishing the pleasurable strain it put on his tight muscles. He felt lighter, and an undeniable joy put some extra bounce in step.


    He was whistling when Randrea caught him in the hall.


    ¡°Feeling good?¡± She mused.


    ¡°Better than I have in a long time.¡± He admitted, ¡°What¡¯s with the stuff.¡±


    She was holding a folded pile of clothes, on top was a small silver ring. ¡°This is all yours, courtesy of your promotion. Welcome to HWND division eight.¡±


    He accepted the bundle with a cheek splitting grin, ¡°Should I put this on now?¡±


    Randrea nodded, ¡°it¡¯s how you¡¯ll communicate with us, it¡¯s already been synced with your AI signature, so you won¡¯t have to worry about that part.¡±


    When he slid it onto his forefinger, the ring expanded and thin silver webbing wound around his hand. It was eerily similar to the imaginary thread that had guided him so far, and he couldn¡¯t help but gape at it.


    ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it,¡± Randrea grinned, misinterpreting his look of surprise.


    ¡°No it¡¯s not that, I- ¡°He tried and failed to think of a way to explain the thread without sounding like total nutjob, ¡°I¡¯m just happy to have it.¡±


    It was the safe answer and still valid. He was beyond grateful to receive the device, his promotion still didn¡¯t feel real.


    ¡°Well, you earned it, despite what the others say.¡± She murmured.


    Jericho looked up from the silver thread webbed across his hand and met her thoughtful gaze. Not for the first time, he was struck by her sharp appearance. She had the beauty of an ornate dagger, undeniably attractive and simultaneously deadly.


    ¡°Why are you being so nice to me.¡± The words stumbled out of his mouth like a drunk patron leaving a bar.


    Randrea tilted her head and licked the sharpened tips of teeth in a thoughtful gesture, the corners of her mouth upturning in a playful smirk, ¡°I don¡¯t what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Jericho couldn¡¯t help but return the smile, ¡°Oh come on, we¡¯ve only known each other for what, a week? When I met you in the landing bay you were ready to kill me.¡±


    That dragged a chuckle out of her, ¡°I still might, you never know.¡±


    Jericho raised his eyebrows, ¡°You¡¯ve been defending me since day one, and just now you told me that I deserve the official invitation even though I clearly remember Graito listing like seven different tests that I haven¡¯t done? If I were him, I¡¯d be pissed. It¡¯s not fair, I beat Sto¡¯ram and I¡¯m pretty sure you all think she¡¯s terrible at physical combat.¡±


    Randrea snorted, ¡°She is terrible, I could beat her blind and naked.¡±


    Jericho¡¯s gave his head a shake, words suddenly lost, ¡°I -uh, wow okay, I don¡¯t know what to say to that.¡±


    The female laughed again, this time a genuine rumble from her chest, ¡°I¡¯m messing with you, don¡¯t picture that!¡±


    Too late.


    ¡°And I¡¯m being serious! I feel like you know something.¡±


    The insistent look on his face was enough to replace her mirth with a severe look, ¡°Okay look, it¡¯s not that I know something, but I have a gut feeling that there is something seriously wrong. Arthros is being strange, I mean, just look at the way he¡¯s treated you. Everything about this situation isn¡¯t normal, and I think Arthros knows something, or he has the same feeling that I have.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± Jericho said slowly.


    ¡°I told you before, but I trust Arthros with my life,¡± Her voice dropped a little lower, ¡°If he thinks there¡¯s something wrong, then there definitely is.¡±


    The words were chilling, and he tried to ignore the growing pit of dread he felt in his stomach, ¡°So that¡¯s why you¡¯re being so nice, because you think Arthros has a plan for me and you want to help him achieve it.¡±


    Of course that¡¯s why. She was a Hokkonian for crying out loud and he was just a means to an end.


    Suddenly her face came close to his and it felt like her swirling white eyes were drilling holes into his skull. He couldn¡¯t help but trace his gaze along the edges of his nose and down to her thin lips.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s why, but also¡­¡± A faint smile, ¡°I like you, Jericho, you¡¯re different than I was expecting.¡±


    His heart hammered in his chest and when he tried to reply his words came out in formless sputtering.


    ¡°I- uh, I like- I mean I like you too, I think you¡¯re really cool, and I mean you look good- not that I think about you in that way- I just-¡± Randrea¡¯s laughter interrupted him and his senseless rambling ended with an embarrassed sigh.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Kill. Me. Now.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I know I look good, and I am damn cool.¡± She winked and then motioned to the ring on his head, ¡°Alright I was supposed to meet Fyd and Graito in the arena a few minutes ago so let me explain how the ring works. You have to think to activate it.¡±


    When he gave her a blank stare, she had rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I know that doesn¡¯t make sense now but trust me.¡±


    She left him standing dumbfounded at the ring on his finger and the uniform in his hands.


    She likes me.


    ***


    Now, back in his room, he slid his arms into his pilot jacket and checked himself out in the mirror. He certainly looked the part. The jacket had been tailored to his dimensions and was made from an incredibly tough material, like leather but less rigid and uncomfortable.


    Damn I look badass!


    On his breast was the blue and gold insignia of the HWND pilots and sewed underneath in golden lettering was: ¡®Division 8¡¯. His pants were made of the same material, full black and covered in pockets of various sizes. At his waist he wore a belt equipped with two sheaths, which held his ARC blades.


    The ring on his finger chimed, and he lifted his hand to look at it. He jumped in surprise when Randrea¡¯s face materialized a few inches above his palm.


    ¡°Admiral Zludikai has called meeting, meet in the common room in five minutes.¡± She said.


    Before Jericho could reply, the image winked out of existence and his ring returned to its normal state.


    That¡¯s going to take some time to get used to.


    He hurried out the door desperately fighting the tumultuous storm of butterflies in his stomach. Somehow, he was the first to walk into the common room, and to his dismay the Admiral was standing at the center, hands clasped behind her back, chin lifted high.


    She wore a jacket like his, though more vibrant in its design. Like Arthros, she exuded confident authority and cold indifference. She was the first female Hokkonian he had seen other than Randrea and was surprised to discover that they looked relatively similar. Though the Admiral¡¯s skin was darker shade of grey, and her white eyes seemed to shift between pale white and storm grey. Her spines were hidden beneath a decorative hat that declared her status as an Admiral.


    Her steely gaze studied him from beneath the brim of her hat, and he felt a shudder pass down his spine. To her, he was nothing, but a game piece and she would sacrifice him for the greater good without so much as a blink.


    No words were spoken as Jericho stood at attention. He didn¡¯t dare break the silence and was immensely grateful for the arrival of the others. Once everyone was present the Admiral wasted no time getting started.


    ¡°Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice, I bring news of your Commander, and an mission order.¡± She paused, and Jericho could have sworn she looked nervous, ¡°Arthros went on a recon mission to the Reloculan surface, I received his report barely ten minutes ago.¡±


    Jericho glanced at the others. He could tell by their body language that they were itching to demand more details but wouldn¡¯t dare to interrupt the Admiral. One glance at Randrea shocked expression was enough to betray any claim of normalcy. Something was wrong.


    ¡°He confirmed the presence of a mounting invasion force, and the union¡¯s involvement. Cyprus Atik was spotted once again on the surface, and Arthros tracked her to Kleth¡¯altho. She¡¯s there now with the leader of the Shadari.¡± She paused for moment, as if mustering the courage to keep speaking. ¡°Your objective is to eliminate the Union woman and her Shadari companion.¡±


    The pilots stared at her in shock. Even Jericho knew that such an order had to be breaking multiple laws and treaties. To kill a union representative seemed insane.


    ¡°You have a time limit,¡± The admiral continued, ¡°twenty-seven hours to complete the mission and return to Hokku. Do not be late. Commander Arthros is currently floating in ungoverned space, somewhere in the pavlock-C1 sector between Reloculan and Kleth¡¯altho. I¡¯ll be linking specific instructions to your PET. Good luck pilots.¡±


    Pet? Jericho glanced around but the others seemed unphased.


    ¡°Thank you, Admiral,¡± the other pilots said in unison.


    With an elegant flourish of her wrist, her ring activated, and she tapped the air above her palm in rapid succession. Around the room everyone¡¯s chimed, including Jericho¡¯s. She didn¡¯t wait for them to read the instructions and turned on her heel out of the room.


    ¡°This is insane,¡± Fydither muttered, reading the words display on his palm.


    ¡°That¡¯s an understatement,¡± Sto''ram gurgled, ¡°We¡¯ll effectively be starting a war.¡±


    Do you think the Sovereignty knows?¡± Scor asked.


    ¡°Of course they do! The Admiral wouldn¡¯t be sending us if they didn¡¯t.¡± Flux scoffed.


    Fydither closed the image on his hand, and shot a challenging look at Flux, ¡°Then why send us? This is too important for outcasts like us.¡±


    ¡°Because were the best.¡± Flux suggested.


    Graito snorted, ¡°We might be, but the Sovereignty doesn¡¯t think that. Fydither is right, we¡¯re being sent to take the blame once we do start a war. It¡¯s a suicide run.¡±


    Scor shook his head, ¡°Admiral Zludikai wouldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    Graito just shrugged, and lifted his hands to say, are you sure about that?


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Randrea said suddenly.


    The others fell silent when she spoke, instinctively freezing at her commanding tone. She took a second to look at each of them. When her gaze locked on Jericho¡¯s, he felt his pulse quicken at the intensity in her eyes.


    ¡°Something isn¡¯t right, but it doesn¡¯t matter. Because Arthros is out there waiting for us.¡±


    A few of the others murmured in agreement. Then Dight stamped his giant feet and rumbled something incoherent. Jericho strained his ears, hoping to catch an inflection in the growl, or any indication that the Aopriordian was actually speaking. To him it sounded like nonsense, but the others seemed to understand him, Fydither most of all.


    The Ordanian flew and settled on Aopriordian¡¯s back, ¡°I¡¯m with you, big guy. We¡¯re not doing anything until we hear from Arthros first.¡±


    He sent the order did he not?


    ¡°Then get your ass in your HWND and go see him,¡± Randrea barked, ¡°That¡¯s where we¡¯re all going anyways.¡±


    ¡°Not me,¡± Graito said, reading his mission instructions floating in his palm, ¡°I¡¯m going straight to Kleth¡¯altho, to scout for the targets. Strictly non-combative¡­¡± His eyes narrowed and then went wide. He stared at his palm in shock and then anger, ¡°No, no, no!¡±


    Uh oh, this can¡¯t be good.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Fydither asked.


    Graito clenched his fist to close the holographic image and veins popped in his arm. For a moment he stood in rigid, angry, silence. His yellow eyes staring daggers at Jericho.


    ¡°Graito?¡± Fydither carefully asked.


    The Myrd let out strangled howl of rage and stormed out of the common room. The door slid calmly shut behind him, leaving the entire group in shocked silence.


    Please do not tell me¡­


    Jericho twisted his wrist, opened his palm, and his mission instructions materialized in front of him.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± Randrea murmured.


    No, no, no!


    ¡°Jericho Hound, Pilot of the eighth Division. Mission objective: Infiltrate Kleth¡¯altho space undetected. Locate targets Cyprus Atik: Human Union Representative and Shadari invader. Due to lack of training, HWND and transportation, you will travel with Graito, Synaptic Rank: Eight ¨C HWND Pilot of the eighth division. Good luck pilot.¡±


    Jericho read the words to the group out loud. The common room was silent, and then Fydither laughed.


    Graito is going to kill me.