Intermission T: Hallowed Insight
This whole heroic matter wasn’t going as planned, thought the High Priestess-elect, as she sipped on wine. Since the divine dreams continued to pressure her with that humongous figure, she was sure that this was the right direction to take. Even her mentor approved of this, and found two previous instances where such figures arose by themselves or were elevated by the Church. Except that those cases were from ages ago, almost mythic times when adventurers and battle monks would roam across the lawless lands. Fighting monsters, participating in wars, discovering treasures in ancient ruins and even slaying dragons would elevate them to the ranks of living legends worthy of the lofty title “hero”.
Today, there were simply no opportunities for an individual to earn such merits. The monsters were long since exterminated, wars were fought by too many people at once for any warrior to stand out, dragons sightings were a once in a lifetime event, and the ruin explorations got taken over by guilds. It may have been possible to raise a hero from scratch, but there was never any reason to do so. Was the nomad threat this time truly so dire as to require such a figure? Then, why did the Transcendent One not warn them earlier? Was a potential hero already out there somewhere? Or did she misunderstand the vision’s message yet again?
One thing was for sure, there was certainly a good reason why the new High Priest-elect needed to be trained by the current one for some years before assuming office. Interpreting the visions, leading the clergy, overseeing the Temple, dealing with secular rulers, it was a daunting task. Suddenly, her thoughts were interrupted by an out-of place smell coming from the window, and she stood up to investigate. The scorching hot midday sun was gone, and a gentle breeze carried that odor from the distant cliffs. Looking up, she understood the reason for this, a rain front was approaching! The change of seasons did not only come far too early, but the clouds looked unusually dense. While this was a happy occasion, on the other hand, such a quick onset of the temperate season also meant that the nomads could attack sooner than usual.
Wait, could this be an omen, and the visions were tied to that?! She nearly dropped the ornate goblet with the exquisite wine. What if the Warlord had already managed to unite and organize the barbarians? Then they would have to face not just the annual raids, but a full-scale invasion instead, a year earlier than expected. Since the efforts to sabotage their unification efforts had failed, and all Church spies were eliminated, the only source of information she had left were the Divine One’s visions. A truly mighty aid, as she had experienced during the initiation, yet also an unfocused and often vague one.
This was of course not God’s fault, understood the Priestess. Its insight was simply far beyond any mortal’s faculties. Even the Holy Vessel which allowed them to partake of Its might, a mere sliver of Its true power, was already overwhelming. More so, for the God to sacrifice a part of Its own Divinity to protect and guide the lowly mortals, this was an act of infinite Grace they could never hope to repay. Instead, they simply had to do their best in order to live up to Its expectations and properly interpret the holy visions. She gulped down the rest of the wine, and immediately left for the Inner Temple. Somehow, she felt the need for divine guidance right about now.
The hallowed song of the Vestige was audible even on the stairs to the Sanctum. She quickly opened the doors and knelt in front of the altar, forgoing lighting the incense burners. Not that she needed them, the melody was already filling her very being, connecting her with the Divine One. Her perception deepened beyond the mundane world, opening her mind towards the Transcendent One’s infinite wisdom. A multitude of possibilities was laid out before her, and now, she understood, as she applied the sorting techniques taught to her. Since the endless strings of information were impossible to process, the priests had to weave through them by using the strongest impression as a beacon. So, instead of desperately looking for a candidate based on a vague impression, she had to sort the numerous visions through the concept of a hero. As if reacting to this, the currents seemed to calm down and allowed her to have a much clearer sight. Both of the best possible course of action, and of the prospective hero. Yes, it would need a true monster to fight against another one.
[Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
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Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXI: A hidden gem
Another weird dream, thought Emberwing, as she trudged off to the bathroom. Was that a part of some virtual world which she merged with her own nightmare? It being based on real events was rather unlikely, after all. Could she have inserted herself into Alexander Jardin’s dream instead, and was he even aware of it? Probably not, it didn’t feel the same as their previous interaction, and mulling over this whole issue wouldn’t get her anywhere. Rather, countless tasks were waiting for her, she should at least go over all the reports and commit them to memory in order to access the data anytime. Looking at the image in the mirror, she noticed the early signs of her getting out of shape. For a proper Loroi warrior, this simply couldn’t be overlooked any longer.
“Beryl, what’s the schedule of the training facility?” Therefore, she decided to do something about it immediately.
“That room is exclusively for our use anyway.” replied the Listel, “Fireblade should be in there right now.”
“Then, I shall join her.” This could help clear up her mind.
The gym was a medium-sized room down the corridor, filled with familiar equipment. After all, they did have almost the same physiology. She began inspecting the instructions, which were written in Trade.
“It’s an honor for the Captain to join me.” Fireblade put down the weights, and rose up from the bench. “Usually, it’s just me alone killing time in here.”
“I simply needed a break.” She adjusted the counterweight, “There’s a gigantic pile of reports waiting for me, and I don’t even know where to start, or how to properly distribute the tasks.”
“Then, start at the beginning?” Amused by her confession, the Teidar lifted an eyebrow, “We can’t possibly hope to process all of this data, anyway. Just stick with your idea of doing some preliminary analyses. Once we’d get back, there will be enough specialists to take care of it. You are a command officer, not a scientist.”
“I know, but it would be great if I could contribute something.” Emberwing leaned back, and started the exercise, “I’m not even in control of my own dreams, some great command ability that is.”
“Neither am I, so what?” Fireblade shrugged, “I’ve learned to live with it. But I guess that you wanted to hear some advice instead?”
“Maybe?” Somehow, she had trouble to focus her thoughts after the latest dream. At least, the exercise brought about a modicum of tranquility. “Actually, I’d appreciate it if you could impart some.”
“You are simply overthinking the whole matter by an order of magnitude or even two.” The Teidar was as always pretty straightforward, “Just challenge whatever is troubling you the most.”
She wanted to reply that it wouldn’t be as easy as that. Instead, Emberwing found herself looking at a ringed planet, a yellow and green world with several small, shallow seas. A section of the starry sky below her seemed to distort, and a gigantic ship, utterly black and shaped like a sphere, simply materialized there. Upon a closer look, however, it looked completely ruined, and could no longer be described as a vessel. Shattered by some cataclysmic event, this was merely an assortment of huge fragments floating together on roughly the same vector. Not everything on board was entirely dead, though, since a few silvery specks were launched towards the distant planet.
As if having exhausted its last sliver of strength with the deed, the shipwreck then collapsed on itself and disappeared in a powerful outburst of radiation. It instantly vaporized the sizable chunks of ice which the planet’s ring consisted of. Next, the blast blew off the thin cloud cover, and scorched the surface below. Before the mighty detonation could finish off the planet altogether, and against all common sense, the shockwave suddenly began retreating inwards. The iridescent explosion bubble gradually compressed, while turning ever dimmer, going beyond light, beyond color, transforming into an impossibly dark wound in the fabric of space. Finally, the absurd un-thing simply vanished, as if the whole spectacle never happened in the first place. Just a few debris pieces remained, but even those were drawn in by the planet’s gravity. Raining down on the surface, they painted fiery streaks through the turbulent atmosphere, and caused huge plumes of dust upon impact.
Emberwing jerked up, waking from whatever that was. Somebody’s fantasy? A daydream? Apparently, she was out for a mere heartbeat, since Fireblade seemed to be oblivious to her absence. Still, she now picked up her confused emotional undertone, “Are you even listening?”
“Boldly challenging it, right? I did just that in confronting the Human Captain two days ago. It was somewhat successful, even though you all criticized me for it later.” She tried to calm down, “Given all the circumstances, I’ll probably need to speak with him soon enough.”
“Better make you more presentable, then.” The Teidar grinned mischievously, “We can’t have a princess being all smelly and unkempt to appear before a male.”
“While I intend to make a name by myself, I also cannot stop being a princess, so what?” She replied in a powerful tone, copying that previous statement. “But thank you for the advice.”
“I didn’t do anything of note.” Fireblade saw her off with a faint smile. “You’re welcome, though.”
While going back, and then, submerging herself into the bath, Emberwing continued to mull over those strange dreams. Was the first one a figment of her imagination, or perhaps truly an invitation by the Human Captain? But, to what? The second vision was even weirder. Her brain, however, was already processing the images, and came up with an unexpected theory. William Steele had once mentioned that the Soia ships, whose debris pieces they found in their system, must’ve been powered by singularity generators, which collapsed upon failure. Judging from how it perished and the immense size, that spherical ship may have been a Soia dreadstar! Suppressing the urge to jump out of the tub right away, she quickly finished up and rushed out of the bath.
“Beryl, when is Tempo expected to come back?” She vaguely sensed the Mizol at a great distance.
“In two hours.” The Listel looked up from the console. “Did something happen?”
“Perhaps,” She wasn’t even sure what actually happened, “I’ll need to analyze my dream with Oasis first.”
The counselor was still busy, “I’m about half-way done with the preliminary psychological profile, but I’ve also hit a snag. What is the true significance of those virtual worlds for the Humans? The answer to this question is also quite important regarding how they manage to sustain such an absurdly high population density.”
“Then, my issue could be tied into that.” Emberwing stretched out her hand, “I’ve had yet another interesting dream. Two, actually.”
“While I don’t know the usual Human dream patterns, this doesn’t seem like a virtual world? It is strangely symbolic, untypical for us Loroi, but perhaps normal for the Humans?” The Tiret was puzzled about that temple scene as well, “Maybe it’s something you two constructed together?”
“From what and why?” It didn’t make much sense.
“It could be a representation of his goals and aspirations.” Even the counselor could only guess, “Or, judging by the metaphor of becoming the next Dragon after slaying one, perhaps anxiety? In Human fiction, those creatures generally represent an obstacle.”
“Anxiety? Yes, I have heaps of that to contribute.” She had to consider this interpretation as well, “Anyway, there was also a daydream of sorts.”
“Now, this is more akin to imagery I’d expect from a story.” Oasis seemed to recognize it, “Something like that may have happened during the planetfall on the Sister-Worlds as well. After all, if our ancestors still had their ships, then it would be unlikely for them to devolve into savages.”
“But why did I see it as a waking dream?” While the explanation was logical enough, something was still amiss, “And where could the Humans have gotten this idea from?”
“We did send them a cultural package, so maybe there were also such myths in there. I’m not particularly well-versed in those ancient legends or history, though.” The Tiret looked at her tablet, “Which brings us back to the virtual worlds issue. Did they already incorporate this trope into their fantasies? Why such a hurry?”
“Rather, when could they even manage to do it? The Humans should've been too busy for such frivolities.” The sense of incongruity within her was growing stronger. “What if the dream came from a different source?”
“The Zulotchi?” Oasis raised an eyebrow, “I’m still unconvinced that they actually exist.”
“No, not them, either.” Emberwing burst out in frustration. “I simply don’t know!”
“Let us look at this from a logical point of view.” The Tiret attempted to calm her down. “It is pretty obvious that you have a connection with the Humans, most probably with the Captain. However, if they can share skills among themselves, maybe dreams can be shared as well, even if only subconsciously?”
“This won’t help us, on the contrary.” Any dream could then be an absurd amalgam of countless fragments, doing nothing but to confuse her. “Still, if it’s merely jumbled together, why do most of my dreams follow a storyline or take place at the same, highly detailed and consistent location? This was still happening in that strange city.”
“I’m not a dream healer, unfortunately, to reach this level needs half a lifetime of training.” Oasis sounded apologetic. “Even such an expert wouldn’t be able to help you there, since they are specialized in handling rare mental disorders, not unraveling alien mysteries.”
“You don’t need to apologize, this is my challenge.” Emberwing recalled Fireblade’s advice. “I’ll simply ask Alexander Jardin. Maybe there are more parts to this dream, which he remembers.”
“This could be risky.” Came the sensible objection.
“After conferring with Tempo, of course.” She could sense the Mizol returning. “Tempo, I need to speak with you.”
“Does it have anything to do with dreams?” Asked the Parat as she entered the room. “Or the Human Captain?”
“Yes, but why would you ask?” This couldn’t be a coincidence.
“Alexander Jardin wants to speak with you pertaining to an important matter.” She said this in an official tone, “And he wants the rest of us to attend as well.”
“Did something happen?” It sounded important, “Were Midnight and Eight Eye already informed?”
“Yes, they were called as well.” Tempo showed a troubled expression, “I was discussing the matter of recording an informal greeting with the Operative, then, he suddenly proposed for a change of plans. Did you do anything strange in a shared dream?”
“The dream was strange indeed.” Emberwing sent the mental image of the masked figure transforming into the Captain, “Maybe it is related to that, so let us see what he wants to talk about. Although I hope it’s not about those Zulotchi.”
After picking up the others, the six Loroi entered the elevator, and Tempo commanded: “Observatory.”
“What are we going to observe?” Beryl sounded intrigued, “We’ve never been to such a facility.”
“The Humans explained that it has a better holo-projector.” The Mizol was rather wary, “They said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and invited us there.”
The lift capsule opened on a different deck, and Zarjow, together with Midnight and Eight Eye, was already awaiting them, “I apologize for calling you all of a sudden, but this matter couldn’t be staved off any longer.”
They walked through a door only to find themselves in open space. Emberwing realized that this was a fully holographic environment with an astonishing level of immersion. “Interesting, this is the observatory?”
“Rather, a multipurpose chamber, but for now, it shall serve as an interstellar vantage point.” Alexander Jardin was standing in the middle of the vast starfield, a red dwarf star behind him. “I need to explain a few things about the system we’re currently in.”
“Is there anything special to warrant such a spectacle?” Was this perhaps aiming at impressing them with their superior level of technology?
“Of course, or I wouldn’t have bothered.” The view switched to show a schematic of the entire system. Contrary to the starmap she saw in the amplifier, the distinctive particle ring wasn’t there. “This is how the system should've been according to our maps provided by the Orgus. No anomalies or planets, just a lone gas giant orbiting an ordinary red dwarf.”
“What about the cloud of ice particles?” It was a slightly unusual formation, but not enough to warrant any interest outside a purely scientific one.
“It was spotted by our long-range telescopes during the routine pre-jump sweep.” The projection now displayed the adjusted image. “This prompted us to investigate the system closely, including the attempt to try out an amplified farsensing.”
“I see, that’s the reason for the sudden offer.” So, the anomaly made them wary, but it shouldn’t be dangerous. “Was there any rationale to be on guard?”
“Let’s just say that I had a strange dream, and decided to be rather safe than sorry. The farsensing didn’t pick up any signatures, and all physical scans confirmed that the discrepancy wouldn’t affect our jump, so we proceeded. It's the only path, anyway. However, from there, the mystery only grew.” The simulation began to change, highlighting his points. “After our arrival, we noticed that all the system’s water is concentrated in that belt. Everything else, the gas giant’s moons and its upper atmosphere, the various comets and planetoids, even the outlying Oort cloud, were swept clean.”
“A terraforming project!” Beryl understood it instantly, “There should be a planet, then.”
“You are right, there is a planet, it was merely hidden.” Magnifying a sector of the belt revealed a faintly visible anomaly deep in the silvery cloud, a small vortex which trailed long, diffuse swirls behind it. “Given the system’s remote location, and the position of this belt relative to the galactic plane, it effectively cloaked the planet from common long-range detection. Well, due to its inaccessibility, I doubt that anyone would waste time to observe this system closely anyway.”
“Did you ever sense something there?” Confirming the absence of life-signs with the farseer, Emberwing asked the Captain. “Can I assume that your dream was about the presence of ships, or even the system being inhabited, hence the wariness?”
“That’s what I wanted to discuss with you.” The planet enlarged further to fill the entire view, and Alexander Jardin gestured at the image. “You see, we’re already in orbit, and there are indeed signs of life.”
“Life?” It didn’t look particularly welcoming. Only some parts of the northernmost plateau, especially those around a small polar sea, had any green coloring. The rest looked utterly barren, an endless desert swept by powerful dust storms. Was the native fauna perhaps below a recognition threshold? “Is it even intelligent?”
“As much as you and me, albeit a bit more barbaric.” The imagery switched to show a primitive settlement as seen from high above. Despite the low resolution, those were definitely crude tents grouped together around a small watering hole.
“I sincerely hope that you’re not playing any pranks on me!” There were shapes moving about, but unfortunately, far too small to recognize anything specific. “Who are the inhabitants?”
“Deploying low-orbit satellites and launching aerial reconnaissance drones will take more time. This is the best we can do for now, since I don’t want to get too close.” He turned to her, “Interestingly enough, we can’t sense whoever those lifeforms might be. Can you?”
“No, we cannot detect anyone either.” Was this whole spectacle’s main intention to test them? “I don’t even know if this is not an elaborate trick of yours!”
“Of course, we need to build up more trust, I understand completely.” The holographic simulation switched back to a planetary overview, while retaining that feed in a separate window. A dot on the surface flashed green, and the Captain pointed at it. “How about something we have in common, I think that you will recognize this scenery?”
What she saw in a new window was a green valley with large-scale farmlands, intersected by a river and surrounded by steep cliffs. A familiar-looking walled town sat in the middle of it, the red roofs and the general layout being instantly recognizable. This was definitely that fantastical city from her dreams! “Did your habit of creating fake worlds finally spill out of its virtual boundaries? Or have you forgotten that such a boundary even exists?”
“While such an excuse may conveniently explain all of this nonsense, everything you see is very much real.” He stroked his beard as he looked at the orbital view, “I would like to inspect this world in more detail. If that dream was true, and there are Humans and Loroi living there, how come that we can’t sense their signatures? Or, why are all of them together on this godforsaken dust ball of a failed planet in the middle of nowhere? With a bunch of elves straight out of legends, to boot? Unfortunately, any major delay might jeopardize our current, very important mission.”
“If you so insist, then a delay of a day or two may be permissible.” Emberwing decided to believe him for the time being, mostly because a lie would gain the Humans absolutely nothing. More than just discovering a lost colony, studying the apparent mind-shield could aid them against the Shells. “We should at least find the reason for that planet-wide lotai.”
“I expect a Soian-era artifact, there is a faint layer of debris with distinct physical properties in orbit. Also, we can detect numerous impact craters on the surface, as well as massive radiation glassing across the southern hemisphere. It looks like the planet was subjected to severe orbital bombardment a long time ago, probably related to the Fall.” The planet was shown from multiple angles to demonstrate this. “What I’m not getting is the reason all this ice was brought there, and then dispersed across a four lightseconds-broad belt. The particles are far too small for it being anything but a deliberate act. It will take the planet’s gravity millions of years to catch them all, so could this be truly called terraforming? Or, was someone perhaps trying to hide the planet? Still, it would only work against superficial scans by low-tech adversaries, even with the psionic shielding.”
“No, it wasn’t intentional.” Looking at the numerous images of the planet closely, Emberwing recognized it as the one from the daydream. The shape of the plateaus, or rather, former continents, was definitely the same. The rest seemed logical as well, the blast damage, the craters, the ruined terraforming process, and even the primitive inhabitants. “I also had a strange dream, precisely about this planet. A vision of how the survivors escaped their doomed ship and landed there. It was the shockwave from the vessel’s foundering which scorched the planet and dispersed the accumulated ice.”
“I see, you had a similarly interesting dream about the past.” The Operative eyed her with great curiosity, “Do you perchance have any idea about its possible source?”
Then, it finally dawned on Emberwing and a shiver ran down her spine. If the dreams about that fantastical city were based on real events, and not on Human imagination, how did she manage to receive them across half a sector? Most importantly, just who or what was down there to possess such frightful psionic powers as to broadcast them?
Another weird dream, thought Emberwing, as she trudged off to the bathroom. Was that a part of some virtual world which she merged with her own nightmare? It being based on real events was rather unlikely, after all. Could she have inserted herself into Alexander Jardin’s dream instead, and was he even aware of it? Probably not, it didn’t feel the same as their previous interaction, and mulling over this whole issue wouldn’t get her anywhere. Rather, countless tasks were waiting for her, she should at least go over all the reports and commit them to memory in order to access the data anytime. Looking at the image in the mirror, she noticed the early signs of her getting out of shape. For a proper Loroi warrior, this simply couldn’t be overlooked any longer.
“Beryl, what’s the schedule of the training facility?” Therefore, she decided to do something about it immediately.
“That room is exclusively for our use anyway.” replied the Listel, “Fireblade should be in there right now.”
“Then, I shall join her.” This could help clear up her mind.
The gym was a medium-sized room down the corridor, filled with familiar equipment. After all, they did have almost the same physiology. She began inspecting the instructions, which were written in Trade.
“It’s an honor for the Captain to join me.” Fireblade put down the weights, and rose up from the bench. “Usually, it’s just me alone killing time in here.”
“I simply needed a break.” She adjusted the counterweight, “There’s a gigantic pile of reports waiting for me, and I don’t even know where to start, or how to properly distribute the tasks.”
“Then, start at the beginning?” Amused by her confession, the Teidar lifted an eyebrow, “We can’t possibly hope to process all of this data, anyway. Just stick with your idea of doing some preliminary analyses. Once we’d get back, there will be enough specialists to take care of it. You are a command officer, not a scientist.”
“I know, but it would be great if I could contribute something.” Emberwing leaned back, and started the exercise, “I’m not even in control of my own dreams, some great command ability that is.”
“Neither am I, so what?” Fireblade shrugged, “I’ve learned to live with it. But I guess that you wanted to hear some advice instead?”
“Maybe?” Somehow, she had trouble to focus her thoughts after the latest dream. At least, the exercise brought about a modicum of tranquility. “Actually, I’d appreciate it if you could impart some.”
“You are simply overthinking the whole matter by an order of magnitude or even two.” The Teidar was as always pretty straightforward, “Just challenge whatever is troubling you the most.”
She wanted to reply that it wouldn’t be as easy as that. Instead, Emberwing found herself looking at a ringed planet, a yellow and green world with several small, shallow seas. A section of the starry sky below her seemed to distort, and a gigantic ship, utterly black and shaped like a sphere, simply materialized there. Upon a closer look, however, it looked completely ruined, and could no longer be described as a vessel. Shattered by some cataclysmic event, this was merely an assortment of huge fragments floating together on roughly the same vector. Not everything on board was entirely dead, though, since a few silvery specks were launched towards the distant planet.
As if having exhausted its last sliver of strength with the deed, the shipwreck then collapsed on itself and disappeared in a powerful outburst of radiation. It instantly vaporized the sizable chunks of ice which the planet’s ring consisted of. Next, the blast blew off the thin cloud cover, and scorched the surface below. Before the mighty detonation could finish off the planet altogether, and against all common sense, the shockwave suddenly began retreating inwards. The iridescent explosion bubble gradually compressed, while turning ever dimmer, going beyond light, beyond color, transforming into an impossibly dark wound in the fabric of space. Finally, the absurd un-thing simply vanished, as if the whole spectacle never happened in the first place. Just a few debris pieces remained, but even those were drawn in by the planet’s gravity. Raining down on the surface, they painted fiery streaks through the turbulent atmosphere, and caused huge plumes of dust upon impact.
Emberwing jerked up, waking from whatever that was. Somebody’s fantasy? A daydream? Apparently, she was out for a mere heartbeat, since Fireblade seemed to be oblivious to her absence. Still, she now picked up her confused emotional undertone, “Are you even listening?”
“Boldly challenging it, right? I did just that in confronting the Human Captain two days ago. It was somewhat successful, even though you all criticized me for it later.” She tried to calm down, “Given all the circumstances, I’ll probably need to speak with him soon enough.”
“Better make you more presentable, then.” The Teidar grinned mischievously, “We can’t have a princess being all smelly and unkempt to appear before a male.”
“While I intend to make a name by myself, I also cannot stop being a princess, so what?” She replied in a powerful tone, copying that previous statement. “But thank you for the advice.”
“I didn’t do anything of note.” Fireblade saw her off with a faint smile. “You’re welcome, though.”
While going back, and then, submerging herself into the bath, Emberwing continued to mull over those strange dreams. Was the first one a figment of her imagination, or perhaps truly an invitation by the Human Captain? But, to what? The second vision was even weirder. Her brain, however, was already processing the images, and came up with an unexpected theory. William Steele had once mentioned that the Soia ships, whose debris pieces they found in their system, must’ve been powered by singularity generators, which collapsed upon failure. Judging from how it perished and the immense size, that spherical ship may have been a Soia dreadstar! Suppressing the urge to jump out of the tub right away, she quickly finished up and rushed out of the bath.
“Beryl, when is Tempo expected to come back?” She vaguely sensed the Mizol at a great distance.
“In two hours.” The Listel looked up from the console. “Did something happen?”
“Perhaps,” She wasn’t even sure what actually happened, “I’ll need to analyze my dream with Oasis first.”
The counselor was still busy, “I’m about half-way done with the preliminary psychological profile, but I’ve also hit a snag. What is the true significance of those virtual worlds for the Humans? The answer to this question is also quite important regarding how they manage to sustain such an absurdly high population density.”
“Then, my issue could be tied into that.” Emberwing stretched out her hand, “I’ve had yet another interesting dream. Two, actually.”
“While I don’t know the usual Human dream patterns, this doesn’t seem like a virtual world? It is strangely symbolic, untypical for us Loroi, but perhaps normal for the Humans?” The Tiret was puzzled about that temple scene as well, “Maybe it’s something you two constructed together?”
“From what and why?” It didn’t make much sense.
“It could be a representation of his goals and aspirations.” Even the counselor could only guess, “Or, judging by the metaphor of becoming the next Dragon after slaying one, perhaps anxiety? In Human fiction, those creatures generally represent an obstacle.”
“Anxiety? Yes, I have heaps of that to contribute.” She had to consider this interpretation as well, “Anyway, there was also a daydream of sorts.”
“Now, this is more akin to imagery I’d expect from a story.” Oasis seemed to recognize it, “Something like that may have happened during the planetfall on the Sister-Worlds as well. After all, if our ancestors still had their ships, then it would be unlikely for them to devolve into savages.”
“But why did I see it as a waking dream?” While the explanation was logical enough, something was still amiss, “And where could the Humans have gotten this idea from?”
“We did send them a cultural package, so maybe there were also such myths in there. I’m not particularly well-versed in those ancient legends or history, though.” The Tiret looked at her tablet, “Which brings us back to the virtual worlds issue. Did they already incorporate this trope into their fantasies? Why such a hurry?”
“Rather, when could they even manage to do it? The Humans should've been too busy for such frivolities.” The sense of incongruity within her was growing stronger. “What if the dream came from a different source?”
“The Zulotchi?” Oasis raised an eyebrow, “I’m still unconvinced that they actually exist.”
“No, not them, either.” Emberwing burst out in frustration. “I simply don’t know!”
“Let us look at this from a logical point of view.” The Tiret attempted to calm her down. “It is pretty obvious that you have a connection with the Humans, most probably with the Captain. However, if they can share skills among themselves, maybe dreams can be shared as well, even if only subconsciously?”
“This won’t help us, on the contrary.” Any dream could then be an absurd amalgam of countless fragments, doing nothing but to confuse her. “Still, if it’s merely jumbled together, why do most of my dreams follow a storyline or take place at the same, highly detailed and consistent location? This was still happening in that strange city.”
“I’m not a dream healer, unfortunately, to reach this level needs half a lifetime of training.” Oasis sounded apologetic. “Even such an expert wouldn’t be able to help you there, since they are specialized in handling rare mental disorders, not unraveling alien mysteries.”
“You don’t need to apologize, this is my challenge.” Emberwing recalled Fireblade’s advice. “I’ll simply ask Alexander Jardin. Maybe there are more parts to this dream, which he remembers.”
“This could be risky.” Came the sensible objection.
“After conferring with Tempo, of course.” She could sense the Mizol returning. “Tempo, I need to speak with you.”
“Does it have anything to do with dreams?” Asked the Parat as she entered the room. “Or the Human Captain?”
“Yes, but why would you ask?” This couldn’t be a coincidence.
“Alexander Jardin wants to speak with you pertaining to an important matter.” She said this in an official tone, “And he wants the rest of us to attend as well.”
“Did something happen?” It sounded important, “Were Midnight and Eight Eye already informed?”
“Yes, they were called as well.” Tempo showed a troubled expression, “I was discussing the matter of recording an informal greeting with the Operative, then, he suddenly proposed for a change of plans. Did you do anything strange in a shared dream?”
“The dream was strange indeed.” Emberwing sent the mental image of the masked figure transforming into the Captain, “Maybe it is related to that, so let us see what he wants to talk about. Although I hope it’s not about those Zulotchi.”
After picking up the others, the six Loroi entered the elevator, and Tempo commanded: “Observatory.”
“What are we going to observe?” Beryl sounded intrigued, “We’ve never been to such a facility.”
“The Humans explained that it has a better holo-projector.” The Mizol was rather wary, “They said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and invited us there.”
The lift capsule opened on a different deck, and Zarjow, together with Midnight and Eight Eye, was already awaiting them, “I apologize for calling you all of a sudden, but this matter couldn’t be staved off any longer.”
They walked through a door only to find themselves in open space. Emberwing realized that this was a fully holographic environment with an astonishing level of immersion. “Interesting, this is the observatory?”
“Rather, a multipurpose chamber, but for now, it shall serve as an interstellar vantage point.” Alexander Jardin was standing in the middle of the vast starfield, a red dwarf star behind him. “I need to explain a few things about the system we’re currently in.”
“Is there anything special to warrant such a spectacle?” Was this perhaps aiming at impressing them with their superior level of technology?
“Of course, or I wouldn’t have bothered.” The view switched to show a schematic of the entire system. Contrary to the starmap she saw in the amplifier, the distinctive particle ring wasn’t there. “This is how the system should've been according to our maps provided by the Orgus. No anomalies or planets, just a lone gas giant orbiting an ordinary red dwarf.”
“What about the cloud of ice particles?” It was a slightly unusual formation, but not enough to warrant any interest outside a purely scientific one.
“It was spotted by our long-range telescopes during the routine pre-jump sweep.” The projection now displayed the adjusted image. “This prompted us to investigate the system closely, including the attempt to try out an amplified farsensing.”
“I see, that’s the reason for the sudden offer.” So, the anomaly made them wary, but it shouldn’t be dangerous. “Was there any rationale to be on guard?”
“Let’s just say that I had a strange dream, and decided to be rather safe than sorry. The farsensing didn’t pick up any signatures, and all physical scans confirmed that the discrepancy wouldn’t affect our jump, so we proceeded. It's the only path, anyway. However, from there, the mystery only grew.” The simulation began to change, highlighting his points. “After our arrival, we noticed that all the system’s water is concentrated in that belt. Everything else, the gas giant’s moons and its upper atmosphere, the various comets and planetoids, even the outlying Oort cloud, were swept clean.”
“A terraforming project!” Beryl understood it instantly, “There should be a planet, then.”
“You are right, there is a planet, it was merely hidden.” Magnifying a sector of the belt revealed a faintly visible anomaly deep in the silvery cloud, a small vortex which trailed long, diffuse swirls behind it. “Given the system’s remote location, and the position of this belt relative to the galactic plane, it effectively cloaked the planet from common long-range detection. Well, due to its inaccessibility, I doubt that anyone would waste time to observe this system closely anyway.”
“Did you ever sense something there?” Confirming the absence of life-signs with the farseer, Emberwing asked the Captain. “Can I assume that your dream was about the presence of ships, or even the system being inhabited, hence the wariness?”
“That’s what I wanted to discuss with you.” The planet enlarged further to fill the entire view, and Alexander Jardin gestured at the image. “You see, we’re already in orbit, and there are indeed signs of life.”
“Life?” It didn’t look particularly welcoming. Only some parts of the northernmost plateau, especially those around a small polar sea, had any green coloring. The rest looked utterly barren, an endless desert swept by powerful dust storms. Was the native fauna perhaps below a recognition threshold? “Is it even intelligent?”
“As much as you and me, albeit a bit more barbaric.” The imagery switched to show a primitive settlement as seen from high above. Despite the low resolution, those were definitely crude tents grouped together around a small watering hole.
“I sincerely hope that you’re not playing any pranks on me!” There were shapes moving about, but unfortunately, far too small to recognize anything specific. “Who are the inhabitants?”
“Deploying low-orbit satellites and launching aerial reconnaissance drones will take more time. This is the best we can do for now, since I don’t want to get too close.” He turned to her, “Interestingly enough, we can’t sense whoever those lifeforms might be. Can you?”
“No, we cannot detect anyone either.” Was this whole spectacle’s main intention to test them? “I don’t even know if this is not an elaborate trick of yours!”
“Of course, we need to build up more trust, I understand completely.” The holographic simulation switched back to a planetary overview, while retaining that feed in a separate window. A dot on the surface flashed green, and the Captain pointed at it. “How about something we have in common, I think that you will recognize this scenery?”
What she saw in a new window was a green valley with large-scale farmlands, intersected by a river and surrounded by steep cliffs. A familiar-looking walled town sat in the middle of it, the red roofs and the general layout being instantly recognizable. This was definitely that fantastical city from her dreams! “Did your habit of creating fake worlds finally spill out of its virtual boundaries? Or have you forgotten that such a boundary even exists?”
“While such an excuse may conveniently explain all of this nonsense, everything you see is very much real.” He stroked his beard as he looked at the orbital view, “I would like to inspect this world in more detail. If that dream was true, and there are Humans and Loroi living there, how come that we can’t sense their signatures? Or, why are all of them together on this godforsaken dust ball of a failed planet in the middle of nowhere? With a bunch of elves straight out of legends, to boot? Unfortunately, any major delay might jeopardize our current, very important mission.”
“If you so insist, then a delay of a day or two may be permissible.” Emberwing decided to believe him for the time being, mostly because a lie would gain the Humans absolutely nothing. More than just discovering a lost colony, studying the apparent mind-shield could aid them against the Shells. “We should at least find the reason for that planet-wide lotai.”
“I expect a Soian-era artifact, there is a faint layer of debris with distinct physical properties in orbit. Also, we can detect numerous impact craters on the surface, as well as massive radiation glassing across the southern hemisphere. It looks like the planet was subjected to severe orbital bombardment a long time ago, probably related to the Fall.” The planet was shown from multiple angles to demonstrate this. “What I’m not getting is the reason all this ice was brought there, and then dispersed across a four lightseconds-broad belt. The particles are far too small for it being anything but a deliberate act. It will take the planet’s gravity millions of years to catch them all, so could this be truly called terraforming? Or, was someone perhaps trying to hide the planet? Still, it would only work against superficial scans by low-tech adversaries, even with the psionic shielding.”
“No, it wasn’t intentional.” Looking at the numerous images of the planet closely, Emberwing recognized it as the one from the daydream. The shape of the plateaus, or rather, former continents, was definitely the same. The rest seemed logical as well, the blast damage, the craters, the ruined terraforming process, and even the primitive inhabitants. “I also had a strange dream, precisely about this planet. A vision of how the survivors escaped their doomed ship and landed there. It was the shockwave from the vessel’s foundering which scorched the planet and dispersed the accumulated ice.”
“I see, you had a similarly interesting dream about the past.” The Operative eyed her with great curiosity, “Do you perchance have any idea about its possible source?”
Then, it finally dawned on Emberwing and a shiver ran down her spine. If the dreams about that fantastical city were based on real events, and not on Human imagination, how did she manage to receive them across half a sector? Most importantly, just who or what was down there to possess such frightful psionic powers as to broadcast them?
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXII: A clash of legends
Emberwing immediately suppressed her emotions, or, at least any outward expressions of such. After all, the Humans were most probably trying to analyze them with those AI systems. Then, she recalled her dreams, but there weren’t any hints regarding their mysterious source. Except for the latest one about the Zulotchi in the temple, that is. “Tempo, should I use the opportunity to ask the Humans about their possible connection with the Zulotchi?”
“Not yet, it would be too much of a stretch to do so.” There was an almost imperceptible trace of the Mizol feeling glad about being asked, “This whole setup is definitely an elaborate test. Keep your wits about you, and concentrate on evading the question. I’ll warn the others to keep quiet.”
“I don’t remember anything from my dreams which could provide a lead.” Emberwing tilted her head, “However, our legends do have certain examples of overwhelmingly powerful displays of psionic talents.”
“The flagship of Lashret Stillstorm, the Tempest, is named after such a mythical figure. She summoned the bedein, spirits of vengeance, to exact her revenge.” Tempo picked up on her tactic, “Although the legends don’t say how she obtained such an ability.”
“Or how exaggerated that story is.” What were those spirits of vengeance even supposed to be? “It is likely based on distorted accounts about the usage of some kind of Soia artifact.”
“Given your history, old legends may hold a glimpse of truth.” The Operative agreed, “Are there any which involve dreams?”
“Nothing I know of, and this may be an unintended side effect as well.” A glimpse? Her reminiscence could’ve been incomplete, so she addressed the Captain. “By the way, you said something about a dream, what was it about? We might remember different parts of it.”
“That one was the scene of a battle, if I interpret it correctly.” He tried to explain it, “The fantastical scenes could only be described as a clash of metaphors or a war of concepts. Combat at such technological levels must be simply incomprehensible.”
“I understood that it had for some reason made you wary regarding this particular system?” His explanation wasn’t one.
“Yes, the psychedelic realm was suddenly dispelled, flinging me down onto a planet.” Now, this was getting more interesting. “I really wish to be able to share the experience directly, words just don’t do it justice.”
Her perception seemed to expand, and for a heartbeat, Emberwing felt in tune with an all-encompassing melody. Then, it shattered with a terrible, dissonant chord, and she found herself falling onto a planet, wrapped in a terrible burning sensation. Yet the outward fire was nothing compared to the one which raged within. A seething wound as if her inner self was being consumed, it imparted an overwhelming sense of pain, loss, and regret.
The vision ended abruptly, causing her to stagger back. Alexander Jardin noticed her distress, and even attempted to support her, but instead, Fireblade nudged her in place with telekinesis.
“Thank you.” Emberwing shook her head and looked at the Captain reproachfully. “It's your fault.”
“That could be misunderstood in an inordinate number of ways.” He raised an eyebrow, “Some of them may be even biologically impossible.”
“Can you stop with those jokes?” Was this her own dream fragment, resurfacing at the right time? At least she could exclude it being sanzai, since the image didn’t carry the distinct undertone of someone’s psionic sending. Which meant that it couldn’t be originating from the Humans, but she decided to ask just in case. “Just now, I’ve seen some kind of vision about falling down onto a planet. Not descending in a rescue pod or crashing with a shuttle, but actually experiencing a burning sensation directly. Could it be that you managed to send to me?”
“Well, this does sound like the dream which I saw.” Alexander Jardin appeared surprised, “We didn’t send anything, though.”
“What happened? Are you hurt? Did you manage to sanzai with him?” Tempo sounded alarmed.
“It was merely a short vision, similar to my daydream before. I assumed it being sanzai from him, but there was no signature or feedback.” Emberwing shared the image, “Could anyone else see it?”
“No, I couldn’t sense even the faintest disturbance.” Midnight was slightly peeved that her abilities weren’t sufficient, “Where are you even receiving those from?”
“I wish I knew, the answer is most likely on this planet, since the dreams are now appearing regardless whether I’m sleeping or awake.” Emberwing rubbed her temples. Physically, there was nothing wrong with her, yet the suddenness did manage to startle her. “Was this scene a message for us both, then? From whom, and to what end?”
“My guess is as good as yours,” The Captain shrugged, “If the dreams are indeed trying to tell us something, then we should attempt to understand their content. Maybe the fiery fall was meant in a metaphorical sense?”
“This was far easier when we assumed the dreams to be a figment of someone’s imagination.” sent Emberwing in an angry tone. “Any ideas?”
“The dream reminds me of the legend of Testimel, who flew so high up with telekinesis, that she burned up upon reentry.” Oasis shared her memory, “I’ve read a few versions of this story in the archives.”
“Yes, it may be related, let’s work with that.” She turned back to Alexander Jardin, “There’s a legend of a powerful telekinesis user, Testimel, who used her ability to fly as high as possible. Overly curious, yet ignorant of the limitations of physics and psionics, she either over-exhausted herself, or passed out due to the lack of air. Falling down, she burned up in the atmosphere, hence her name which means Comet.”
“Oh, we do have a similar legend, that of Icarus.” Zarjow smiled faintly, “Driven by the desire to experience flight, he and his father made wings to fly in the sky. However, against his elder’s warnings, he flew too high. Once he got closer to the sun, the wax holding the contraption together melted, and the feathers the wings were made out of caught fire. Burning, he fell back down to Earth and died.”
“But it worked for the other person? Was it a problem of materials?” Beryl stared to calculate, “Given your planet’s gravity and air density, the wings…”
“Oh, don’t bother trying to verify it, this legend is most likely untrue, and it wouldn’t have worked at that technological level, anyway.” Alexander Jardin stopped her by raising a hand, “Well, somebody might have tried and failed, but that’s not the point. It is a parable, a story to warn about the dangers of forgoing advice and succumbing to hubris. Or, since the Sun was represented as a God back then, it was also a punishment for blasphemy, as no mortal could be allowed to infringe upon the domain of the Gods.”
“Yet here we are, and there weren’t any deities trying to stop us.” Zarjow chuckled, “But, instead of the Icarus legend, this whole story sounds more like the Siren myth to me. Should I get some ropes for you?”
“Siren?” Emberwing understood that it might be a trap, but still decided to ask.
“Another legend, mythical beings resembling a cross of a bird and woman who used an enchanting song to lure sailors to their doom.” The Operative pointed to the planet, “We may have been led here, one way or the other.”
“Regardless of any silly stories, we need to investigate the natives, and search the planet for traces of Soia ruins or artifacts, starting with that city.” Alexander Jardin ended the myth recital. “Unfortunately, we have just a few probes which can be repurposed as low-orbit surveillance satellites, and no atmospheric reconnaissance drones. They are being printed right now, so we should be able to begin the survey in a few hours.”
“I see, which means that the spectacle is now over?” There was no point in assembling all of them here, except to conduct a test.
“You catch on quickly. It was more of a reassurance measure, although it amounts to the same outcome.” The Captain nodded, “May I invite you to dinner as an apology?”
Emberwing now realized that she had forgotten to eat, again. Given the possibility, no, certainty of some ulterior motive, this offer was somewhat problematic, though. “Should I really accept?”
“Maybe it was sanzai after all, and he wants to try again.” Proposed Tempo, “The risk is rather low, so why not?”
“You mean that I’m a suitable sacrifice if things go wrong?” Although she was also eager to have a telepathic contact. Or this was a pretense to discuss something vis-à-vis. “You may. The same location?”
“Of course. Alexey will escort the others back.” He led her to the elevator, “It was actually his idea to perform this little play. Did you like it?”
“It was impressive enough. Did it at least serve its purpose?” She replied in a sarcastic tone.
“Maybe?” Alexander Jardin smiled, “Your reactions managed to dispel some suspicions, so in a sense, yes.”
“Good to know.” They walked into the Lounge, “So what is this invitation truly about?”
“That question is supposed to come only after we’ve eaten. You Loroi are quite straightforward.” He sat down, “The same?”
“Yes.” While eating, they talked about the legends of both worlds, and their possible origins.
“Let’s get to the main topic.” He gave the empty plates to a service bot. “Once we get enough data from flying drones and satellites, we’ll land some troops for reconnaissance. Afterwards, I’m thinking of heading there by myself. Do you want to come along?”
Emberwing wanted to blurt out, “yes”, but then paused. What the other Human had said might be true, they could’ve been led there for any kind of reason. Was it really wise to land on this planet? On the other hand, their time was severely limited, and since the mystery was likely of psionic origin, then they had no choice but to investigate it in person. “Isn’t it too hasty?”
“Most certainly.” He didn’t deny it at all, “But the rewards should outweigh the risks.”
“It is not even sure that we can find anything useful.” Although she had a feeling that the city had the answers. “And in the case when we find something, what if the natives refuse to cooperate?”
“They are already citizens of the Terran Empire from the moment I discovered the planet, so they have no other choice but to obey me.” His eyes flashed with a subdued psionic light, “Obey us.”
“That works as well.” Any Loroi commander would do the same. Securing valuable resources and artifacts, especially in wartime, had the highest priority. The Assembly was far away, and couldn’t be possibly bothered discussing the fate of a few savages. As the highest-ranking Union commander present, she only had to clarify a single point. “However, if there are any Loroi, then this arrangement has to exclude them.”
“I doubt that the population of this sand heap is significant enough to call it a Sister world, and if our dreams can be trusted, then there are Humans and those elves as well.” He made a dividing gesture with his hand, “So we’ll take those, and you can simply resettle the stranded Loroi to your territory.”
“The exact terms can be negotiated later, but it sounds reasonable enough.” The Union had no capabilities to access this planet just yet, anyway. “After the war is over, our governments will most likely establish a joint research presence here. The supply ships can then take care of their transport back home.”
“This still depends on whether the dream is true. Maybe there are some horrific monsters down there instead, and we’d have to produce kinetic ordnance next.” That would certainly delay the survey efforts. “The Charon is an exploration ship, and it doesn’t have much in terms of ground combat potential, although we can adapt a few things in a pinch.”
“Monsters? Like those Zulotchi, the so-called Dragons?” She couldn’t help but to ask this, since the opportunity seemed to be good enough.
“I’d prefer them, actually. An evil we don’t know is as dangerous as two which we do.” He leaned forwards, “I’m more concerned that the cloaking and the dreams could be caused by psi-affecting creatures. Perhaps of the same kind the Umiak might be using against you.”
“A frightening theory that certainly needs to be verified. Fine, I’ll consider accompanying you.” Emberwing decided to speak with the Mizol first. “Do you need my answer right now? I’d like to confer with my team.”
“It can wait until we’ve gathered some information.” Alexander Jardin stood up, “We will share those findings with you, of course. I’ll send a data package tomorrow.”
“Thank you.” Said Emberwing as the Human Captain escorted her to the elevator.
He nodded, “I’m looking forward to resolving this mystery.”
“Everyone, please assemble for a meeting.” She could now easily send to the Loroi on their deck, as well as the two in the cargo bay. “There’s a new development which we need to discuss.”
After everyone assembled, she told them about the plans and the Captain’s offer. “I’m thinking of accepting it. Whether it’s a Soia artifact or some psi-jamming species bred by them, this should be of great benefit to the Union war effort.”
“Assuming all of this is real, of course.” Midnight was very skeptical, “The only reason I’m tentatively believing it, is because a deception this elaborate wouldn’t make any sense. Also, the resources spend on such a spectacle are simply wasted on personnel as unimportant as us.”
“Since you’re implying that our lives are cheap, then they should be an acceptable price to pay.” Fireblade picked up on that line of thought, “I shall face any challenge for the benefit of the Union, and I’m bored, anyway.”
“I understand how eager you are, but can we at least wait until there’s more data?” Tempo stopped them, “If there are indeed Loroi down there, then we should definitely visit them. As the Human Captain said, this planet might not be at the level of a true Sister world. Still, the find itself can help boost morale, and if they are living together with Humans, it could provide a precedence to establishing an alliance between the species.”
“Good, depending on the information, I shall accept.” This was the only reasonable decision. She turned to Eight Eye, “Could you sense the inhabitants?”
“I’ve tried probing the planet, to no avail.” The Bistima shook her head, “There’s no lotai, no interference, it is simply a nothingness.”
“Can it be compared to the Shell fleet-cloak?” There could be a connection.
“I didn’t have the chance to inspect them from close-up.” Eight Eye replied with a bundle of impressions. While Emberwing could understand them, her lack of farseer training prevented her from interpreting their content in detail. “Both cases feel similar in the way that there’s nothing to feel.”
“Which makes finding the reason even more important.” Hopefully, there weren’t too many ways to apply such perfect lotai across an entire system. “Anything else I need to be aware of?”
“The tablet array managed to finish a preliminary evaluation of the sensor cap’s most recent data.” Beryl handed her the results, “The neurotransmitter levels were at an all-times high.”
“Yes, you are somehow reproducing what the farseers can only achieve with the drugs. Consistently and with a much higher precision.” Said Willpower in an astonished tone, “Normally, that’s plain impossible. It doesn’t explain your sending range, either.”
“Is it perhaps normal for the Humans?” If she was borrowing their powers, then it could provide a hint regarding the specifics. “Have they shared any data?”
“Of course not.” Tempo was slightly frustrated, “The reply was a very polite “not yet”. I couldn’t press for an answer either, since there was no logical reason to do so.”
“As expected. Maybe once we’ve solved the mystery of this planet together, the Humans might be more forthcoming with information.” Why were they so secretive? Could there really be a backer somewhere, forbidding them from sharing anything? Emberwing walked over to the cabinet to inspect the facsimile uniform. Since it showed no activity, she pulled out some casual wear. “Nothing of that accursed construct either. Fine, everyone’s dismissed. Let’s use this opportunity to have a break, tomorrow, we might need to join the landing party.”
With nothing better to do, she began reading the Human cultural archives, since the talk with the Captain made her a bit curious. Interestingly enough, there were quite a lot of familiar tropes, the legend of Icarus, various primitive religions trying to deal with the inevitability of death, even mythical beings resembling the mozeret species. Finally, she stumbled upon a rather strange rendition of the minnir legend. This immortal aerial predator, the heraldic symbol of the Empire, appeared here as the bird Phoenix. Upon reaching the end of its lifespan, it would light itself on fire, only to be reborn from the egg which was left behind.
“Beryl, is there any version of the minnir legend where it would immolate itself before a rebirth?” She asked the Listel, who was immersed in VR.
“No?” Some impressions of the virtual landscape leaked from her sending, likely belonging to that historical game Steele unlocked for them. “A minnir is always reborn, no matter what kind of death it may suffer, but it never kills itself.”
“I’m reading the Human myths, and found an interesting analogy.” She now realized that she had likely interrupted her session. “And sorry for being a distraction.”
“Don’t worry, I can multitask!” Beryl replied in a cheerful tone, “A legend involving self-destruction before reincarnation is a common trope among many species. It symbolizes the change of seasons, or the cycle of life in general.”
“A simple coincidence, then?” Emberwing found this logical enough, even though a bit disappointing.
“That’s likely.” The Listel was indeed good at multitasking, since nothing of the VR experience was now leaking through. “We don’t even know what the minnir legend is based on, but there could be a similar logic to its constant rebirth.”
“Thank you for the explanation.” The original bird was probably something from their long-lost homeworld. Not that it mattered, at least until they could find that fabled planet. She read some more, and then decided to sleep. Tomorrow would be a very busy day.
Predictably enough, her dream was about the world below, even the same scene, albeit from a slightly different angle as compared to yesterday. She could see the fireballs of the rescue pods braking in the atmosphere, and sense the emotions of the escapees within. It was that powerful feeling of loss and despair, definitely stemming from Loroi. But now, she could understand the feelings to a much better degree. This state of mind was not merely due to their defeat, it was caused by a great disaster, a failure of overwhelming proportions. The Fall? The sensation of burning up as they fell also originated from them. Possibly a backlash? The aftereffects of an unknown psionic attack?
The dream continued, and likely caused by the ship’s foundering, a flash of terrible light now scorched the planet. Following that, a shower of debris rained down on its surface, adding to the widespread destruction. A particularly large piece of wreckage stood out as it descended towards the north pole at an unnaturally slow pace, yet its impact still raised a gigantic plume of dust. The cloud grew, extending far beyond the stormy atmosphere. Then, it condensed and elongated, transforming into a familiar shape. An ephemeral, white minnir, the mythical symbol of the Empire, spread out its sky-spanning wings, and launched itself back into space.
Emberwing immediately suppressed her emotions, or, at least any outward expressions of such. After all, the Humans were most probably trying to analyze them with those AI systems. Then, she recalled her dreams, but there weren’t any hints regarding their mysterious source. Except for the latest one about the Zulotchi in the temple, that is. “Tempo, should I use the opportunity to ask the Humans about their possible connection with the Zulotchi?”
“Not yet, it would be too much of a stretch to do so.” There was an almost imperceptible trace of the Mizol feeling glad about being asked, “This whole setup is definitely an elaborate test. Keep your wits about you, and concentrate on evading the question. I’ll warn the others to keep quiet.”
“I don’t remember anything from my dreams which could provide a lead.” Emberwing tilted her head, “However, our legends do have certain examples of overwhelmingly powerful displays of psionic talents.”
“The flagship of Lashret Stillstorm, the Tempest, is named after such a mythical figure. She summoned the bedein, spirits of vengeance, to exact her revenge.” Tempo picked up on her tactic, “Although the legends don’t say how she obtained such an ability.”
“Or how exaggerated that story is.” What were those spirits of vengeance even supposed to be? “It is likely based on distorted accounts about the usage of some kind of Soia artifact.”
“Given your history, old legends may hold a glimpse of truth.” The Operative agreed, “Are there any which involve dreams?”
“Nothing I know of, and this may be an unintended side effect as well.” A glimpse? Her reminiscence could’ve been incomplete, so she addressed the Captain. “By the way, you said something about a dream, what was it about? We might remember different parts of it.”
“That one was the scene of a battle, if I interpret it correctly.” He tried to explain it, “The fantastical scenes could only be described as a clash of metaphors or a war of concepts. Combat at such technological levels must be simply incomprehensible.”
“I understood that it had for some reason made you wary regarding this particular system?” His explanation wasn’t one.
“Yes, the psychedelic realm was suddenly dispelled, flinging me down onto a planet.” Now, this was getting more interesting. “I really wish to be able to share the experience directly, words just don’t do it justice.”
Her perception seemed to expand, and for a heartbeat, Emberwing felt in tune with an all-encompassing melody. Then, it shattered with a terrible, dissonant chord, and she found herself falling onto a planet, wrapped in a terrible burning sensation. Yet the outward fire was nothing compared to the one which raged within. A seething wound as if her inner self was being consumed, it imparted an overwhelming sense of pain, loss, and regret.
The vision ended abruptly, causing her to stagger back. Alexander Jardin noticed her distress, and even attempted to support her, but instead, Fireblade nudged her in place with telekinesis.
“Thank you.” Emberwing shook her head and looked at the Captain reproachfully. “It's your fault.”
“That could be misunderstood in an inordinate number of ways.” He raised an eyebrow, “Some of them may be even biologically impossible.”
“Can you stop with those jokes?” Was this her own dream fragment, resurfacing at the right time? At least she could exclude it being sanzai, since the image didn’t carry the distinct undertone of someone’s psionic sending. Which meant that it couldn’t be originating from the Humans, but she decided to ask just in case. “Just now, I’ve seen some kind of vision about falling down onto a planet. Not descending in a rescue pod or crashing with a shuttle, but actually experiencing a burning sensation directly. Could it be that you managed to send to me?”
“Well, this does sound like the dream which I saw.” Alexander Jardin appeared surprised, “We didn’t send anything, though.”
“What happened? Are you hurt? Did you manage to sanzai with him?” Tempo sounded alarmed.
“It was merely a short vision, similar to my daydream before. I assumed it being sanzai from him, but there was no signature or feedback.” Emberwing shared the image, “Could anyone else see it?”
“No, I couldn’t sense even the faintest disturbance.” Midnight was slightly peeved that her abilities weren’t sufficient, “Where are you even receiving those from?”
“I wish I knew, the answer is most likely on this planet, since the dreams are now appearing regardless whether I’m sleeping or awake.” Emberwing rubbed her temples. Physically, there was nothing wrong with her, yet the suddenness did manage to startle her. “Was this scene a message for us both, then? From whom, and to what end?”
“My guess is as good as yours,” The Captain shrugged, “If the dreams are indeed trying to tell us something, then we should attempt to understand their content. Maybe the fiery fall was meant in a metaphorical sense?”
“This was far easier when we assumed the dreams to be a figment of someone’s imagination.” sent Emberwing in an angry tone. “Any ideas?”
“The dream reminds me of the legend of Testimel, who flew so high up with telekinesis, that she burned up upon reentry.” Oasis shared her memory, “I’ve read a few versions of this story in the archives.”
“Yes, it may be related, let’s work with that.” She turned back to Alexander Jardin, “There’s a legend of a powerful telekinesis user, Testimel, who used her ability to fly as high as possible. Overly curious, yet ignorant of the limitations of physics and psionics, she either over-exhausted herself, or passed out due to the lack of air. Falling down, she burned up in the atmosphere, hence her name which means Comet.”
“Oh, we do have a similar legend, that of Icarus.” Zarjow smiled faintly, “Driven by the desire to experience flight, he and his father made wings to fly in the sky. However, against his elder’s warnings, he flew too high. Once he got closer to the sun, the wax holding the contraption together melted, and the feathers the wings were made out of caught fire. Burning, he fell back down to Earth and died.”
“But it worked for the other person? Was it a problem of materials?” Beryl stared to calculate, “Given your planet’s gravity and air density, the wings…”
“Oh, don’t bother trying to verify it, this legend is most likely untrue, and it wouldn’t have worked at that technological level, anyway.” Alexander Jardin stopped her by raising a hand, “Well, somebody might have tried and failed, but that’s not the point. It is a parable, a story to warn about the dangers of forgoing advice and succumbing to hubris. Or, since the Sun was represented as a God back then, it was also a punishment for blasphemy, as no mortal could be allowed to infringe upon the domain of the Gods.”
“Yet here we are, and there weren’t any deities trying to stop us.” Zarjow chuckled, “But, instead of the Icarus legend, this whole story sounds more like the Siren myth to me. Should I get some ropes for you?”
“Siren?” Emberwing understood that it might be a trap, but still decided to ask.
“Another legend, mythical beings resembling a cross of a bird and woman who used an enchanting song to lure sailors to their doom.” The Operative pointed to the planet, “We may have been led here, one way or the other.”
“Regardless of any silly stories, we need to investigate the natives, and search the planet for traces of Soia ruins or artifacts, starting with that city.” Alexander Jardin ended the myth recital. “Unfortunately, we have just a few probes which can be repurposed as low-orbit surveillance satellites, and no atmospheric reconnaissance drones. They are being printed right now, so we should be able to begin the survey in a few hours.”
“I see, which means that the spectacle is now over?” There was no point in assembling all of them here, except to conduct a test.
“You catch on quickly. It was more of a reassurance measure, although it amounts to the same outcome.” The Captain nodded, “May I invite you to dinner as an apology?”
Emberwing now realized that she had forgotten to eat, again. Given the possibility, no, certainty of some ulterior motive, this offer was somewhat problematic, though. “Should I really accept?”
“Maybe it was sanzai after all, and he wants to try again.” Proposed Tempo, “The risk is rather low, so why not?”
“You mean that I’m a suitable sacrifice if things go wrong?” Although she was also eager to have a telepathic contact. Or this was a pretense to discuss something vis-à-vis. “You may. The same location?”
“Of course. Alexey will escort the others back.” He led her to the elevator, “It was actually his idea to perform this little play. Did you like it?”
“It was impressive enough. Did it at least serve its purpose?” She replied in a sarcastic tone.
“Maybe?” Alexander Jardin smiled, “Your reactions managed to dispel some suspicions, so in a sense, yes.”
“Good to know.” They walked into the Lounge, “So what is this invitation truly about?”
“That question is supposed to come only after we’ve eaten. You Loroi are quite straightforward.” He sat down, “The same?”
“Yes.” While eating, they talked about the legends of both worlds, and their possible origins.
“Let’s get to the main topic.” He gave the empty plates to a service bot. “Once we get enough data from flying drones and satellites, we’ll land some troops for reconnaissance. Afterwards, I’m thinking of heading there by myself. Do you want to come along?”
Emberwing wanted to blurt out, “yes”, but then paused. What the other Human had said might be true, they could’ve been led there for any kind of reason. Was it really wise to land on this planet? On the other hand, their time was severely limited, and since the mystery was likely of psionic origin, then they had no choice but to investigate it in person. “Isn’t it too hasty?”
“Most certainly.” He didn’t deny it at all, “But the rewards should outweigh the risks.”
“It is not even sure that we can find anything useful.” Although she had a feeling that the city had the answers. “And in the case when we find something, what if the natives refuse to cooperate?”
“They are already citizens of the Terran Empire from the moment I discovered the planet, so they have no other choice but to obey me.” His eyes flashed with a subdued psionic light, “Obey us.”
“That works as well.” Any Loroi commander would do the same. Securing valuable resources and artifacts, especially in wartime, had the highest priority. The Assembly was far away, and couldn’t be possibly bothered discussing the fate of a few savages. As the highest-ranking Union commander present, she only had to clarify a single point. “However, if there are any Loroi, then this arrangement has to exclude them.”
“I doubt that the population of this sand heap is significant enough to call it a Sister world, and if our dreams can be trusted, then there are Humans and those elves as well.” He made a dividing gesture with his hand, “So we’ll take those, and you can simply resettle the stranded Loroi to your territory.”
“The exact terms can be negotiated later, but it sounds reasonable enough.” The Union had no capabilities to access this planet just yet, anyway. “After the war is over, our governments will most likely establish a joint research presence here. The supply ships can then take care of their transport back home.”
“This still depends on whether the dream is true. Maybe there are some horrific monsters down there instead, and we’d have to produce kinetic ordnance next.” That would certainly delay the survey efforts. “The Charon is an exploration ship, and it doesn’t have much in terms of ground combat potential, although we can adapt a few things in a pinch.”
“Monsters? Like those Zulotchi, the so-called Dragons?” She couldn’t help but to ask this, since the opportunity seemed to be good enough.
“I’d prefer them, actually. An evil we don’t know is as dangerous as two which we do.” He leaned forwards, “I’m more concerned that the cloaking and the dreams could be caused by psi-affecting creatures. Perhaps of the same kind the Umiak might be using against you.”
“A frightening theory that certainly needs to be verified. Fine, I’ll consider accompanying you.” Emberwing decided to speak with the Mizol first. “Do you need my answer right now? I’d like to confer with my team.”
“It can wait until we’ve gathered some information.” Alexander Jardin stood up, “We will share those findings with you, of course. I’ll send a data package tomorrow.”
“Thank you.” Said Emberwing as the Human Captain escorted her to the elevator.
He nodded, “I’m looking forward to resolving this mystery.”
“Everyone, please assemble for a meeting.” She could now easily send to the Loroi on their deck, as well as the two in the cargo bay. “There’s a new development which we need to discuss.”
After everyone assembled, she told them about the plans and the Captain’s offer. “I’m thinking of accepting it. Whether it’s a Soia artifact or some psi-jamming species bred by them, this should be of great benefit to the Union war effort.”
“Assuming all of this is real, of course.” Midnight was very skeptical, “The only reason I’m tentatively believing it, is because a deception this elaborate wouldn’t make any sense. Also, the resources spend on such a spectacle are simply wasted on personnel as unimportant as us.”
“Since you’re implying that our lives are cheap, then they should be an acceptable price to pay.” Fireblade picked up on that line of thought, “I shall face any challenge for the benefit of the Union, and I’m bored, anyway.”
“I understand how eager you are, but can we at least wait until there’s more data?” Tempo stopped them, “If there are indeed Loroi down there, then we should definitely visit them. As the Human Captain said, this planet might not be at the level of a true Sister world. Still, the find itself can help boost morale, and if they are living together with Humans, it could provide a precedence to establishing an alliance between the species.”
“Good, depending on the information, I shall accept.” This was the only reasonable decision. She turned to Eight Eye, “Could you sense the inhabitants?”
“I’ve tried probing the planet, to no avail.” The Bistima shook her head, “There’s no lotai, no interference, it is simply a nothingness.”
“Can it be compared to the Shell fleet-cloak?” There could be a connection.
“I didn’t have the chance to inspect them from close-up.” Eight Eye replied with a bundle of impressions. While Emberwing could understand them, her lack of farseer training prevented her from interpreting their content in detail. “Both cases feel similar in the way that there’s nothing to feel.”
“Which makes finding the reason even more important.” Hopefully, there weren’t too many ways to apply such perfect lotai across an entire system. “Anything else I need to be aware of?”
“The tablet array managed to finish a preliminary evaluation of the sensor cap’s most recent data.” Beryl handed her the results, “The neurotransmitter levels were at an all-times high.”
“Yes, you are somehow reproducing what the farseers can only achieve with the drugs. Consistently and with a much higher precision.” Said Willpower in an astonished tone, “Normally, that’s plain impossible. It doesn’t explain your sending range, either.”
“Is it perhaps normal for the Humans?” If she was borrowing their powers, then it could provide a hint regarding the specifics. “Have they shared any data?”
“Of course not.” Tempo was slightly frustrated, “The reply was a very polite “not yet”. I couldn’t press for an answer either, since there was no logical reason to do so.”
“As expected. Maybe once we’ve solved the mystery of this planet together, the Humans might be more forthcoming with information.” Why were they so secretive? Could there really be a backer somewhere, forbidding them from sharing anything? Emberwing walked over to the cabinet to inspect the facsimile uniform. Since it showed no activity, she pulled out some casual wear. “Nothing of that accursed construct either. Fine, everyone’s dismissed. Let’s use this opportunity to have a break, tomorrow, we might need to join the landing party.”
With nothing better to do, she began reading the Human cultural archives, since the talk with the Captain made her a bit curious. Interestingly enough, there were quite a lot of familiar tropes, the legend of Icarus, various primitive religions trying to deal with the inevitability of death, even mythical beings resembling the mozeret species. Finally, she stumbled upon a rather strange rendition of the minnir legend. This immortal aerial predator, the heraldic symbol of the Empire, appeared here as the bird Phoenix. Upon reaching the end of its lifespan, it would light itself on fire, only to be reborn from the egg which was left behind.
“Beryl, is there any version of the minnir legend where it would immolate itself before a rebirth?” She asked the Listel, who was immersed in VR.
“No?” Some impressions of the virtual landscape leaked from her sending, likely belonging to that historical game Steele unlocked for them. “A minnir is always reborn, no matter what kind of death it may suffer, but it never kills itself.”
“I’m reading the Human myths, and found an interesting analogy.” She now realized that she had likely interrupted her session. “And sorry for being a distraction.”
“Don’t worry, I can multitask!” Beryl replied in a cheerful tone, “A legend involving self-destruction before reincarnation is a common trope among many species. It symbolizes the change of seasons, or the cycle of life in general.”
“A simple coincidence, then?” Emberwing found this logical enough, even though a bit disappointing.
“That’s likely.” The Listel was indeed good at multitasking, since nothing of the VR experience was now leaking through. “We don’t even know what the minnir legend is based on, but there could be a similar logic to its constant rebirth.”
“Thank you for the explanation.” The original bird was probably something from their long-lost homeworld. Not that it mattered, at least until they could find that fabled planet. She read some more, and then decided to sleep. Tomorrow would be a very busy day.
Predictably enough, her dream was about the world below, even the same scene, albeit from a slightly different angle as compared to yesterday. She could see the fireballs of the rescue pods braking in the atmosphere, and sense the emotions of the escapees within. It was that powerful feeling of loss and despair, definitely stemming from Loroi. But now, she could understand the feelings to a much better degree. This state of mind was not merely due to their defeat, it was caused by a great disaster, a failure of overwhelming proportions. The Fall? The sensation of burning up as they fell also originated from them. Possibly a backlash? The aftereffects of an unknown psionic attack?
The dream continued, and likely caused by the ship’s foundering, a flash of terrible light now scorched the planet. Following that, a shower of debris rained down on its surface, adding to the widespread destruction. A particularly large piece of wreckage stood out as it descended towards the north pole at an unnaturally slow pace, yet its impact still raised a gigantic plume of dust. The cloud grew, extending far beyond the stormy atmosphere. Then, it condensed and elongated, transforming into a familiar shape. An ephemeral, white minnir, the mythical symbol of the Empire, spread out its sky-spanning wings, and launched itself back into space.
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Intermission U: For whom the bell tolls
The young warrior was crouching on the roof of a building close to the city wall, well-hidden by night and lotai. She spread out her senses, both mundane and psionic, confirming that there was nobody patrolling this section of the battlements right now. With a telekinetically-powered leap, she landed on the broad wall, then, jumped again, down into the darkness. Since there was no commotion, she continued running away from the city, her mission fulfilled.
After a while, she heard the faint sounds of the flowing river. The tiny leather boat was still in its hiding place, and so, she set off downstream. Paddling all night, and hiding during the day, evading the small farming settlements by carrying the boat overland, she proceeded until the river became too shallow. From there, it was only half a day’s journey through the crags.
“Come to me immediately.” The Warlord’s sending reached her before she could even sense the camp, which was hidden in this labyrinth of snaking valleys.
“Yes, mother.” The warrior was actually trying to suppress her presence, but this was apparently futile before the Crown’s sight. She entered the central tent, and knelt before the throne. “I have completed my scouting mission. As you’ve surmised, the Tastadi didn’t expect our attack to come so soon. Their preparations are still incomplete, and not all allied troops have arrived yet.”
“Were you discreet?” The inquiry came with considerable pressure. “Could they have shadowed you? Intercepted your thoughts? Did anyone notice your escape?”
“They had simply let me in, as it is their custom. Getting out was also rather easy thanks to my talents.” The city did not raise any alarm, after all. “The mission remained a secret. Nobody wants to deal with a supposed exile, anyway.”
“Good.” The Azerein nodded in approval, as she received the rest of her report. “A pity that you couldn’t find out more about those new weapons.”
“It was far too dangerous to do that.” Whatever the secret was, they guarded it very well. “Without someone in the know, just plain impossible. I’d need to find a suitably high-ranked traitor inside the temple. However, most city-dwellers despise us, it’d take at least several seasons to slowly gain anyone’s trust.”
“I wouldn’t trust a long-standing enemy either. It couldn’t be helped, then.” Her mother leaned back. “What of their rulership and the succession issue?”
“The old High Priest has recently selected an heir, but that girl is still inexperienced.” She couldn’t help, but leak some disdain, “Her training process is quite slow and is rumored to take at least two more seasons.”
“Never underestimate your enemy, girl!” The Warlord’s admonishment came with a telepathic pulse which made her stagger, “This is the greatest mistake that a warrior can ever make, and is usually her final one as well.”
“Forgive me for my lack of experience.” She needed to train her shielding even more, “I still have much to learn.”
“Indeed. Belittling your foe serves no purpose, but to dishonor yourself.” The Azerein projected a mental image of the city, mixing in anticipation and the joy of a worthy challenge. “This enemy is not one to be taken lightly. So many of my forebears made such an arrogant mistake, and our people paid the heavy price.”
“Forgive me this question, but why do we actually need to capture this city first?” It would surely bring them great prestige and many supplies, yet all previous attempts to take it had failed. “We could begin with the eastern trade towns instead, they don’t have this level of defenses.”
“I’d rather punish you for not asking enough questions. Wits and knowledge are an important consideration when choosing a successor, remember this well, my daughter.” Her mother smirked at the following short outburst of emotions. “Do you still think that I unified so many tribes for something as trivial as a raid? No, this city has always been the pivoting point, the key to our future, my predecessors had surely felt its importance as well. Destiny is calling out to me, and I must answer, for all our sake. I will heed the message, and make this city my new seat of power. From there, all shall bow to our new order.”
The young warrior was crouching on the roof of a building close to the city wall, well-hidden by night and lotai. She spread out her senses, both mundane and psionic, confirming that there was nobody patrolling this section of the battlements right now. With a telekinetically-powered leap, she landed on the broad wall, then, jumped again, down into the darkness. Since there was no commotion, she continued running away from the city, her mission fulfilled.
After a while, she heard the faint sounds of the flowing river. The tiny leather boat was still in its hiding place, and so, she set off downstream. Paddling all night, and hiding during the day, evading the small farming settlements by carrying the boat overland, she proceeded until the river became too shallow. From there, it was only half a day’s journey through the crags.
“Come to me immediately.” The Warlord’s sending reached her before she could even sense the camp, which was hidden in this labyrinth of snaking valleys.
“Yes, mother.” The warrior was actually trying to suppress her presence, but this was apparently futile before the Crown’s sight. She entered the central tent, and knelt before the throne. “I have completed my scouting mission. As you’ve surmised, the Tastadi didn’t expect our attack to come so soon. Their preparations are still incomplete, and not all allied troops have arrived yet.”
“Were you discreet?” The inquiry came with considerable pressure. “Could they have shadowed you? Intercepted your thoughts? Did anyone notice your escape?”
“They had simply let me in, as it is their custom. Getting out was also rather easy thanks to my talents.” The city did not raise any alarm, after all. “The mission remained a secret. Nobody wants to deal with a supposed exile, anyway.”
“Good.” The Azerein nodded in approval, as she received the rest of her report. “A pity that you couldn’t find out more about those new weapons.”
“It was far too dangerous to do that.” Whatever the secret was, they guarded it very well. “Without someone in the know, just plain impossible. I’d need to find a suitably high-ranked traitor inside the temple. However, most city-dwellers despise us, it’d take at least several seasons to slowly gain anyone’s trust.”
“I wouldn’t trust a long-standing enemy either. It couldn’t be helped, then.” Her mother leaned back. “What of their rulership and the succession issue?”
“The old High Priest has recently selected an heir, but that girl is still inexperienced.” She couldn’t help, but leak some disdain, “Her training process is quite slow and is rumored to take at least two more seasons.”
“Never underestimate your enemy, girl!” The Warlord’s admonishment came with a telepathic pulse which made her stagger, “This is the greatest mistake that a warrior can ever make, and is usually her final one as well.”
“Forgive me for my lack of experience.” She needed to train her shielding even more, “I still have much to learn.”
“Indeed. Belittling your foe serves no purpose, but to dishonor yourself.” The Azerein projected a mental image of the city, mixing in anticipation and the joy of a worthy challenge. “This enemy is not one to be taken lightly. So many of my forebears made such an arrogant mistake, and our people paid the heavy price.”
“Forgive me this question, but why do we actually need to capture this city first?” It would surely bring them great prestige and many supplies, yet all previous attempts to take it had failed. “We could begin with the eastern trade towns instead, they don’t have this level of defenses.”
“I’d rather punish you for not asking enough questions. Wits and knowledge are an important consideration when choosing a successor, remember this well, my daughter.” Her mother smirked at the following short outburst of emotions. “Do you still think that I unified so many tribes for something as trivial as a raid? No, this city has always been the pivoting point, the key to our future, my predecessors had surely felt its importance as well. Destiny is calling out to me, and I must answer, for all our sake. I will heed the message, and make this city my new seat of power. From there, all shall bow to our new order.”
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXIII: As history repeats itself
She wasn’t fond of metaphors, just as most Loroi were, thought Emberwing while getting out of bed. However, this particular one was known to any warrior. The immortal minnir, which would be always reborn anew, just as the Empire prided itself as the rebirth of the Soia dominion, this most ancient legend was one of the main reasons why the mythical figure became its heraldic symbol. Someone of their kind on the planet was definitely calling out to her, since only other Loroi would be able to come up with this analogy. The biggest problem was that preserving the reminiscences of eons old events with such level of detail should’ve been impossible, even with eidetic memories. Who could've sent it, then? It felt like she was witnessing the events directly.
A rather unorthodox theory formed in her mind. Not who, but when? If the dreams ignored the constraints of distance, reaching across many lightyears, then what about time? Hopefully, the myth database could deliver another hint. “Oasis, were there any legends about sanzai transcending temporal limitations? Foresight, forewarning, possibly contact with ancestors? Anything of the sort?”
“I take that you’ve seen another strange dream?” The Tiret quickly shut out any thoughts pertaining to her current activity, eating, from her sending. “I’m no tribal soothsayer to deal with such nonsense, you know?”
“Nonsense? I can’t deny that. Still, please have a look at the legends.” Emberwing quickly finished the morning chores, including a meal. Since there was no new information about the planet, she went to see the counselor. “Anything interesting?”
“Let’s see, in ancient times, the primitive hunter-gatherer tribes had something akin to spiritual guides, the male Mystics, early predecessors of the Philosopher caste.” Oasis was analyzing her dream, and at the same time, continued to search for information on a tablet device. “A very long story short, they took care of all the mysterious stuff our barbaric, superstitious ancestors had to face. Ancestor deification to cope with the fear of death, future-telling rituals to deal with the unknown, early telepathic healing methods, and so on. The exact roles differed from tribe to tribe, and later, everything was unified as the male monastic orders were founded. All the useless by-catch was removed, and only the useful practices got incorporated into the Nedathan’s current repertoire. Just the name remained, it is now reserved for rare specialists who apply the more esoteric techniques, the dream healing, for example.”
“Like the Stormcalmer technique?” Emberwing remembered that it was named after the legendary sage Stormcalmer, who invented it after analyzing her clan’s founder, Starsword’s, ordeals. Those sessions also gave birth to quite a number of daughters, the first generation of the new clan.
“Yes, it is still an effective, if somewhat brutal approach.” Oasis let go of her hand, and continued, “I’ve found a few references. There weren’t any minnirs on the scale of a planet. However, there is a connection with whatever you’ve seen and the Mystics, just as I’ve guessed. A story of Prophet Minnir-Born, who was said to have the ability to perceive the currents of time.”
“What a ridiculous name.” Emberwing received the tablet. This mythical figure, a very rare instance of a male clan leader, could apparently receive visions of both the past and the future. With this awesome power, he managed to defeat enemies, find food, evade disasters, and even received sacred knowledge from hallowed pre-Fall times, enabling him and his followers to survive against impossible odds. “Did he find a Soia artifact? Perhaps an advanced equivalent of this tablet device?”
“No idea. Although the artifact theory does sound likely. The legend ends at them founding a city and establishing a cult with him as a high priest, but there’s no continuation, and no such settlement was ever discovered. Maybe the power source of that artifact ran out, so they perished.” The Tiret waved her hand, “This is the best match I could find in the short amount of time. Beyond that, there’s nothing even remotely resembling what you’ve seen or any references to temporal anomalies.”
“A city, that is indeed interesting.” This was no mere coincidence. “Charon, is there any new information regarding the planet?”
“Affirmative.” Finally, something useful. “An officer will contact you in a short while.”
“Before you think that this is too much of a coincidence, remember, there are countless legends about establishing all kinds of settlements, something was bound to match.” Oasis dampened her enthusiasm. “The stories regarding the founding figures are often wildly exaggerated as well.”
“It still may help us out.” Their conversation was interrupted by a buzzing at the door. “Come in!”
Ellen Jardin entered the room. “Would you please come along? There’s new data which you should see. You can take your diplomatic advisor along as well.”
“Of course.” She probably meant the Mizol, “Tempo, the Humans want to tell us more about the planet.”
“An advance team landed on the surface just now.” Explained the Human as the three were riding the elevator. “The dreams were right, our drones found out that there are humans, Loroi, and even beings resembling elves down there.”
“What are those elves supposed to be?” There shouldn’t be any possibility for a true hybrid, after all.
“We haven’t yet secured a specimen.” She led them into the Observatory. The holographic planet was now surrounded by numerous multicolored points, and even more moved about on the surface.
“As you can see, we were quite busy surveying this world.” The Captain was standing in the middle of the room facing the world’s projection, arms crossed behind his back. He turned around, “Where should I begin?”
“Are there really Loroi down there?” This would be the most important question.
“Yes, a primitive, nomadic culture of what looks like Loroi inhabits the less welcoming outer edges of the northernmost continent. Or rather, plateau.” The migration regions, presumably, were highlighted on the surface, then the view changed to an aerial perspective. “Most of them are now concentrated in this camp here.”
Hidden in a long, narrow valley, countless leather tents grouped around a particularly big one. The high-resolution video showed a lot of Loroi warriors dressed in primitive armors, wandering about, sparring, or standing guard. However, there weren’t any civilians, children, or males present there. Emberwing was almost sure about having seen this somewhere. Of course. “Desert fury?!”
“Yes, it does look like a congregation of nomad clans before a massive raid.” Tempo recognized this historical picture as well. On Deinar, desert tribes were usually insular, constantly warring among themselves for scarce resources. Without any population control measures, their numbers periodically grew to unsustainable levels, prompting an all-out war for survival. This in turn, could only lead to two outcomes. Either a massive culling, or the rise of a Warlord, who would unify the hungry savages to have them raze any and all progress the budding civilization had made.
“Can I see where this camp is, relative to the settlements?” She had a bad premonition.
“Right here, and further northwards, around the small inner sea, lies a chain of fortified cities, which are inhabited by humans and those elves, with a few Loroi mixed in.” There were only twenty-six dots of varying sizes, clinging to the polar lake, or placed along the few rivers springing from it. “Everything else is covered in sand, and the southern pole is a glassed wasteland, polished by the storms into a gigantic mirror hellscape.”
“Zoom in on this southernmost city, please.” He did so, and Emberwing could recognize it as the one from her dreams. “That’s far too close to the camp! They are definitely targeting it! We need to stop those barbarians.”
“And do what, have an alien male drop kinetic ordnance on Loroi? We are trying to establish an alliance, I won’t let it begin with a genocide.” Tempo objected vehemently. “However, the time will be definitely too short to convince them of stopping.”
“An interesting admission, coming from a Mizol.” Emberwing did also realize that resolving it peacefully would be almost impossible, but giving up was not an option, either. “Perhaps if we could collapse the valley’s exit?”
“Ahem, may I participate in this conversation?” Alexander Jardin cleared his throat. “Let me guess, you are discussing how to stop those Loroi?”
“Yes, but how did you know?” Emberwing eyed him with suspicion.
“Don’t worry, we can’t sense your thoughts. This is simply obvious, our history also had their fair share of nomads raiding settlements.” He waved her off, “Additionally, while we can’t intercept your telepathy, AI pattern recognition enables us to do lip-reading. The city inhabitants speak a version of Trade, and the imminent raid is the topic number one.”
“Trade? That’s interesting.” Not very surprising, though. The timing, however, couldn’t have been worse. “How many days do we have left?”
“Not nearly enough, so we have to hurry. Obtaining information during a siege would be rather difficult.” The image switched again, showing a landed shuttle in a field of greenish-brown, partially wilted vegetation. Twelve Humans clad in matte gray spacesuits, heavily armored and even without visors, were disembarking from it. One of the faceless helmets was replaced with a projection of Zarjow’s head. The Captain turned to him. “How is the situation down there?”
“Landing site secured. No dangerous pathogens or wildlife. The air is thin, but breathable. A full report will be uploaded in twenty minutes.” The Operative was reporting in curt and precise statements. “The drones surrounded a small bandit camp nearby. We can catch some specimens.”
“Proceed.” The Humans ran off, causing the camera to swing around to follow them. Emberwing now saw two more shuttles, and a great number of those eight-legged robots, which were now carrying sizable containers on their backs. “Those are simple multipurpose spideroids, by the way, reconfigured for a combat role.”
“I see, but why specifically bandits?” And how did they find them so quickly?
“Because we needed to target a suitably small group where there wouldn’t be any witnesses nearby, and nobody will ask any questions were a few outlaws to disappear without trace.” Answered Ellen Jardin, “We may have to spend them all during interrogation.”
The video feed switched to show a small village among empty farmlands, a few shabby huts surrounded by a low earthen wall. Rough-looking humans armed with primitive weapons tried to man the simple defenses, only to be mowed down by blaster shots from all sides. It didn’t take long for everyone to be subdued, and now, drones jumped straight into the settlement to inspect every house. Alexander Jardin was looking at this unmoved, until Zarjow arrived at the scene and contacted him again. “Target taken. 14 captured, two killed. No losses. Interestingly enough, we can sense them perfectly from a normal distance.”
“Good, interrogate and inspect them thoroughly, I expect a report in two hours.” Alexander Jardin turned back to the Loroi, “After receiving more information, we can think about landing there, as well as strategies how to deal with those nomads. Do you have any questions?”
“Were there any of those elves?” She refrained from commenting on this assault. “I’m curious about what they are.”
“We all are.” He smirked, “Two females, apparently the only surviving original inhabitants of this hamlet, were held captive. We’ve secured them as well.”
“Are they capable of telepathy?” The apparent physical similarity couldn’t be a coincidence.
“No, but it is at least possible to read them.” Answered the Tactician in his stead. “There is also a sufficient number of rather fresh corpses for us to dissect. We’ll have our answers soon.”
“Enough with the macabre, let’s go back to the city. It is called the City of Pillars, and is housing the central shrine of the predominant religion. The priesthood is mostly composed of those elves, Tastadi, as they are referring to themselves, and they worship something called the Transcendent One.” The holographic projection returned to show the settlement in question, “The other inhabitants are Humans, a few Mozeret, and also a number of Loroi living in a slum.”
“It matches my dreams exactly!” Could this Athedil figure also be a real person, and not a figment of someone’s imagination? But, who was responsible for the dreams? “Those Founders, Tastadi, are any of them telepathic?”
“Hmm, hard to say without getting close, most speak verbally, but there were a few instances of wordless communication between them.” Alexander Jardin ruminated for a moment. “The AI calculates the possibility of at least some of them being telepathic at 73%.”
“I thought that it were Loroi who sent me the dreams, but what if those Tastadi could do so as well.” Emberwing had an inkling. A telepathic species, outwardly identical to them, but not of Soia-Liron biochemistry. “Wait, could they be our original forms? Or, is this planet possibly our lost homeworld?!”
“Even the Humans being our template is more likely, and why would the homeworld need any terraforming.” Tempo denied this, but then added, “Rather, I’m very interested in this religion and its shrine. On ancient Perrein, a few cults worshiped Soia artifacts, so what if they also have one, something actually useful? Perhaps it is projecting that lotai, or sends dreams.”
Oasis was indeed wrong, just as she thought. This had far too many similarities with that Deinar legend. Could dreams or visions truly reach so far, possibly even transcending time? Whether this was the effect of an artifact or someone’s ability, it could certainly aid the war effort. “Something that can enable us to send across half a sector? We need to secure it immediately.”
“If the Humans decide to share, of course.” Tempo smiled at the Captain, “Forgive us, the discovery of a yet another related species is quite the surprise.”
“Imagine my astonishment to see elves, then?” Alexander Jardin looked at Ellen, “Alexey will greatly enjoy unraveling the mystery of a myth becoming reality. Or perhaps the other way around?”
“Yes, most certainly.” The Tactician nodded and addressed the Loroi, “We will send you the data once he’s finished. For now, I can guess that you want to discuss this matter among yourselves?”
“Yes, we will do so. Please share the information once it’s available.” Agreed the Mizol. “It seems that the spectacle is over.”
“They are certainly fond of those. Then let us head back, I need to explain something else as well.” The video feed which kept switching between different parts of the city, had shown a huge structure in the middle of it from multiple angles. It looked awfully similar to the one out of her most recent dream, with Alexander Jardin as the unmasked Zulotchi. “I’m looking forward to seeing this city with my own eyes.”
“It can be arranged for, do not worry.” Alexander Jardin smiled reassuringly. “We won’t leave you out.”
“Thank you.” The Loroi left the Observatory and headed back. “Charon, could you inform the others of my team to return to their quarters?”
“Certainly.” Emberwing decided to refrain from using long-range telepathy. Instead, she sent Tempo a mental image. “This central building, probably the temple, I’ve seen it in my dream.”
“Again with those Zulotchi?” The Mizol could only frown. “This makes even less sense than those elves.”
“Then we have to unravel this mystery until it does.” Back on their deck, she asked everyone to gather, and recounted the events. “The answers are finally within our reach.”
“Or just a small part, that the Humans will allow us to see.” The other Mizol was, as usual, not easily convinced. “We are led around by them. Whether this is a matter of amusement, or something far more nefarious, remains to be seen.”
“While I do agree, we are in no position to issue demands. At least, they offered to include us in the landing party.” Hopefully, not as a sacrifice, thought Emberwing, as she remembered a particularly vivid nightmare. No, that wouldn’t make any sense. “Oasis, you said that the dream about Alexander Jardin revealing himself as the one under that Zulotchi mask was an expression of his inner turmoil, anxiety, or even desires?”
“It is likely, although without a proper psychological profile, backed by the necessary telepathic scans, impossible to ascertain.” The Tiret simply shrugged, “I’m merely guessing that their psyche may favor symbolism, especially in the dreamworld.”
“They are most certainly hiding something of great importance, that’s what I think.” Fireblade joined in as well, “All those demonstrations, the Humans simply want to gauge our reaction to refine their lies.”
“You’ve just described what the Mizol always do.” Willpower looked at the Parats impishly, “Let them earn their keep and counteract those tricks.”
“Quite the challenge without telepathy.” Emberwing smirked as well, “Eight Eye, could you sense anything from the planet?”
“Still nothing.” The Bistima shook her head. “I can’t sense even the faintest lifesign, here or anywhere around us. It is truly an Empty Quarter.”
“Maybe it is those Tastadi, who project a lotai.” Emberwing turned to the Listel, “Do you know any legends about something resembling them?”
“The legends I remember do not feature any such beings.” Beryl frowned, “Unless they are invisible to us as well, then they might be the actual source of those melor myths.”
“Fine, let us stop with the wild guesses, it amounts to absolutely nothing. I really hate to admit it, but we might need that construct’s help. It’s been some time since our last contact, anyway.” Emberwing walked over to the dresser to pull out that facsimile uniform. As expected, it spoke to her.
“We greet you once more, Torret Emberwing. It is of course a pity that you decided to ignore our warnings and proceeded to cooperate with the Humans, but this is still within what we had anticipated.”
“I’m the commander of this mission, not your subordinate.” This thing’s condescending attitude was infuriating. “Also, you still haven’t explained the reason we have to be so wary of the Humans, at least beyond any normal measures.”
“We apologize for not being able to find out more about their possible backers or any goals.” It now spoke in a deferential tone. “However, we managed to acquire something of interest. The Humans were very hasty with establishing the surveillance network, giving us opportunity to connect to it. Have they explained anything regarding the nature of the debris field around the planet?”
“No, but you are surely going to tell me.” Could this puppet-thing be capable of glee as well?
“Of course, we shall transfer the data to you. The most striking feature is the chemical composition of the debris pieces.” It wasn’t outright glee, perhaps superiority. Subdued, yet still noticeable, most probably deliberately so. “Besides the usual Soia ceramics, the field also contains a surprising amount of amplifier materials.”
She wasn’t fond of metaphors, just as most Loroi were, thought Emberwing while getting out of bed. However, this particular one was known to any warrior. The immortal minnir, which would be always reborn anew, just as the Empire prided itself as the rebirth of the Soia dominion, this most ancient legend was one of the main reasons why the mythical figure became its heraldic symbol. Someone of their kind on the planet was definitely calling out to her, since only other Loroi would be able to come up with this analogy. The biggest problem was that preserving the reminiscences of eons old events with such level of detail should’ve been impossible, even with eidetic memories. Who could've sent it, then? It felt like she was witnessing the events directly.
A rather unorthodox theory formed in her mind. Not who, but when? If the dreams ignored the constraints of distance, reaching across many lightyears, then what about time? Hopefully, the myth database could deliver another hint. “Oasis, were there any legends about sanzai transcending temporal limitations? Foresight, forewarning, possibly contact with ancestors? Anything of the sort?”
“I take that you’ve seen another strange dream?” The Tiret quickly shut out any thoughts pertaining to her current activity, eating, from her sending. “I’m no tribal soothsayer to deal with such nonsense, you know?”
“Nonsense? I can’t deny that. Still, please have a look at the legends.” Emberwing quickly finished the morning chores, including a meal. Since there was no new information about the planet, she went to see the counselor. “Anything interesting?”
“Let’s see, in ancient times, the primitive hunter-gatherer tribes had something akin to spiritual guides, the male Mystics, early predecessors of the Philosopher caste.” Oasis was analyzing her dream, and at the same time, continued to search for information on a tablet device. “A very long story short, they took care of all the mysterious stuff our barbaric, superstitious ancestors had to face. Ancestor deification to cope with the fear of death, future-telling rituals to deal with the unknown, early telepathic healing methods, and so on. The exact roles differed from tribe to tribe, and later, everything was unified as the male monastic orders were founded. All the useless by-catch was removed, and only the useful practices got incorporated into the Nedathan’s current repertoire. Just the name remained, it is now reserved for rare specialists who apply the more esoteric techniques, the dream healing, for example.”
“Like the Stormcalmer technique?” Emberwing remembered that it was named after the legendary sage Stormcalmer, who invented it after analyzing her clan’s founder, Starsword’s, ordeals. Those sessions also gave birth to quite a number of daughters, the first generation of the new clan.
“Yes, it is still an effective, if somewhat brutal approach.” Oasis let go of her hand, and continued, “I’ve found a few references. There weren’t any minnirs on the scale of a planet. However, there is a connection with whatever you’ve seen and the Mystics, just as I’ve guessed. A story of Prophet Minnir-Born, who was said to have the ability to perceive the currents of time.”
“What a ridiculous name.” Emberwing received the tablet. This mythical figure, a very rare instance of a male clan leader, could apparently receive visions of both the past and the future. With this awesome power, he managed to defeat enemies, find food, evade disasters, and even received sacred knowledge from hallowed pre-Fall times, enabling him and his followers to survive against impossible odds. “Did he find a Soia artifact? Perhaps an advanced equivalent of this tablet device?”
“No idea. Although the artifact theory does sound likely. The legend ends at them founding a city and establishing a cult with him as a high priest, but there’s no continuation, and no such settlement was ever discovered. Maybe the power source of that artifact ran out, so they perished.” The Tiret waved her hand, “This is the best match I could find in the short amount of time. Beyond that, there’s nothing even remotely resembling what you’ve seen or any references to temporal anomalies.”
“A city, that is indeed interesting.” This was no mere coincidence. “Charon, is there any new information regarding the planet?”
“Affirmative.” Finally, something useful. “An officer will contact you in a short while.”
“Before you think that this is too much of a coincidence, remember, there are countless legends about establishing all kinds of settlements, something was bound to match.” Oasis dampened her enthusiasm. “The stories regarding the founding figures are often wildly exaggerated as well.”
“It still may help us out.” Their conversation was interrupted by a buzzing at the door. “Come in!”
Ellen Jardin entered the room. “Would you please come along? There’s new data which you should see. You can take your diplomatic advisor along as well.”
“Of course.” She probably meant the Mizol, “Tempo, the Humans want to tell us more about the planet.”
“An advance team landed on the surface just now.” Explained the Human as the three were riding the elevator. “The dreams were right, our drones found out that there are humans, Loroi, and even beings resembling elves down there.”
“What are those elves supposed to be?” There shouldn’t be any possibility for a true hybrid, after all.
“We haven’t yet secured a specimen.” She led them into the Observatory. The holographic planet was now surrounded by numerous multicolored points, and even more moved about on the surface.
“As you can see, we were quite busy surveying this world.” The Captain was standing in the middle of the room facing the world’s projection, arms crossed behind his back. He turned around, “Where should I begin?”
“Are there really Loroi down there?” This would be the most important question.
“Yes, a primitive, nomadic culture of what looks like Loroi inhabits the less welcoming outer edges of the northernmost continent. Or rather, plateau.” The migration regions, presumably, were highlighted on the surface, then the view changed to an aerial perspective. “Most of them are now concentrated in this camp here.”
Hidden in a long, narrow valley, countless leather tents grouped around a particularly big one. The high-resolution video showed a lot of Loroi warriors dressed in primitive armors, wandering about, sparring, or standing guard. However, there weren’t any civilians, children, or males present there. Emberwing was almost sure about having seen this somewhere. Of course. “Desert fury?!”
“Yes, it does look like a congregation of nomad clans before a massive raid.” Tempo recognized this historical picture as well. On Deinar, desert tribes were usually insular, constantly warring among themselves for scarce resources. Without any population control measures, their numbers periodically grew to unsustainable levels, prompting an all-out war for survival. This in turn, could only lead to two outcomes. Either a massive culling, or the rise of a Warlord, who would unify the hungry savages to have them raze any and all progress the budding civilization had made.
“Can I see where this camp is, relative to the settlements?” She had a bad premonition.
“Right here, and further northwards, around the small inner sea, lies a chain of fortified cities, which are inhabited by humans and those elves, with a few Loroi mixed in.” There were only twenty-six dots of varying sizes, clinging to the polar lake, or placed along the few rivers springing from it. “Everything else is covered in sand, and the southern pole is a glassed wasteland, polished by the storms into a gigantic mirror hellscape.”
“Zoom in on this southernmost city, please.” He did so, and Emberwing could recognize it as the one from her dreams. “That’s far too close to the camp! They are definitely targeting it! We need to stop those barbarians.”
“And do what, have an alien male drop kinetic ordnance on Loroi? We are trying to establish an alliance, I won’t let it begin with a genocide.” Tempo objected vehemently. “However, the time will be definitely too short to convince them of stopping.”
“An interesting admission, coming from a Mizol.” Emberwing did also realize that resolving it peacefully would be almost impossible, but giving up was not an option, either. “Perhaps if we could collapse the valley’s exit?”
“Ahem, may I participate in this conversation?” Alexander Jardin cleared his throat. “Let me guess, you are discussing how to stop those Loroi?”
“Yes, but how did you know?” Emberwing eyed him with suspicion.
“Don’t worry, we can’t sense your thoughts. This is simply obvious, our history also had their fair share of nomads raiding settlements.” He waved her off, “Additionally, while we can’t intercept your telepathy, AI pattern recognition enables us to do lip-reading. The city inhabitants speak a version of Trade, and the imminent raid is the topic number one.”
“Trade? That’s interesting.” Not very surprising, though. The timing, however, couldn’t have been worse. “How many days do we have left?”
“Not nearly enough, so we have to hurry. Obtaining information during a siege would be rather difficult.” The image switched again, showing a landed shuttle in a field of greenish-brown, partially wilted vegetation. Twelve Humans clad in matte gray spacesuits, heavily armored and even without visors, were disembarking from it. One of the faceless helmets was replaced with a projection of Zarjow’s head. The Captain turned to him. “How is the situation down there?”
“Landing site secured. No dangerous pathogens or wildlife. The air is thin, but breathable. A full report will be uploaded in twenty minutes.” The Operative was reporting in curt and precise statements. “The drones surrounded a small bandit camp nearby. We can catch some specimens.”
“Proceed.” The Humans ran off, causing the camera to swing around to follow them. Emberwing now saw two more shuttles, and a great number of those eight-legged robots, which were now carrying sizable containers on their backs. “Those are simple multipurpose spideroids, by the way, reconfigured for a combat role.”
“I see, but why specifically bandits?” And how did they find them so quickly?
“Because we needed to target a suitably small group where there wouldn’t be any witnesses nearby, and nobody will ask any questions were a few outlaws to disappear without trace.” Answered Ellen Jardin, “We may have to spend them all during interrogation.”
The video feed switched to show a small village among empty farmlands, a few shabby huts surrounded by a low earthen wall. Rough-looking humans armed with primitive weapons tried to man the simple defenses, only to be mowed down by blaster shots from all sides. It didn’t take long for everyone to be subdued, and now, drones jumped straight into the settlement to inspect every house. Alexander Jardin was looking at this unmoved, until Zarjow arrived at the scene and contacted him again. “Target taken. 14 captured, two killed. No losses. Interestingly enough, we can sense them perfectly from a normal distance.”
“Good, interrogate and inspect them thoroughly, I expect a report in two hours.” Alexander Jardin turned back to the Loroi, “After receiving more information, we can think about landing there, as well as strategies how to deal with those nomads. Do you have any questions?”
“Were there any of those elves?” She refrained from commenting on this assault. “I’m curious about what they are.”
“We all are.” He smirked, “Two females, apparently the only surviving original inhabitants of this hamlet, were held captive. We’ve secured them as well.”
“Are they capable of telepathy?” The apparent physical similarity couldn’t be a coincidence.
“No, but it is at least possible to read them.” Answered the Tactician in his stead. “There is also a sufficient number of rather fresh corpses for us to dissect. We’ll have our answers soon.”
“Enough with the macabre, let’s go back to the city. It is called the City of Pillars, and is housing the central shrine of the predominant religion. The priesthood is mostly composed of those elves, Tastadi, as they are referring to themselves, and they worship something called the Transcendent One.” The holographic projection returned to show the settlement in question, “The other inhabitants are Humans, a few Mozeret, and also a number of Loroi living in a slum.”
“It matches my dreams exactly!” Could this Athedil figure also be a real person, and not a figment of someone’s imagination? But, who was responsible for the dreams? “Those Founders, Tastadi, are any of them telepathic?”
“Hmm, hard to say without getting close, most speak verbally, but there were a few instances of wordless communication between them.” Alexander Jardin ruminated for a moment. “The AI calculates the possibility of at least some of them being telepathic at 73%.”
“I thought that it were Loroi who sent me the dreams, but what if those Tastadi could do so as well.” Emberwing had an inkling. A telepathic species, outwardly identical to them, but not of Soia-Liron biochemistry. “Wait, could they be our original forms? Or, is this planet possibly our lost homeworld?!”
“Even the Humans being our template is more likely, and why would the homeworld need any terraforming.” Tempo denied this, but then added, “Rather, I’m very interested in this religion and its shrine. On ancient Perrein, a few cults worshiped Soia artifacts, so what if they also have one, something actually useful? Perhaps it is projecting that lotai, or sends dreams.”
Oasis was indeed wrong, just as she thought. This had far too many similarities with that Deinar legend. Could dreams or visions truly reach so far, possibly even transcending time? Whether this was the effect of an artifact or someone’s ability, it could certainly aid the war effort. “Something that can enable us to send across half a sector? We need to secure it immediately.”
“If the Humans decide to share, of course.” Tempo smiled at the Captain, “Forgive us, the discovery of a yet another related species is quite the surprise.”
“Imagine my astonishment to see elves, then?” Alexander Jardin looked at Ellen, “Alexey will greatly enjoy unraveling the mystery of a myth becoming reality. Or perhaps the other way around?”
“Yes, most certainly.” The Tactician nodded and addressed the Loroi, “We will send you the data once he’s finished. For now, I can guess that you want to discuss this matter among yourselves?”
“Yes, we will do so. Please share the information once it’s available.” Agreed the Mizol. “It seems that the spectacle is over.”
“They are certainly fond of those. Then let us head back, I need to explain something else as well.” The video feed which kept switching between different parts of the city, had shown a huge structure in the middle of it from multiple angles. It looked awfully similar to the one out of her most recent dream, with Alexander Jardin as the unmasked Zulotchi. “I’m looking forward to seeing this city with my own eyes.”
“It can be arranged for, do not worry.” Alexander Jardin smiled reassuringly. “We won’t leave you out.”
“Thank you.” The Loroi left the Observatory and headed back. “Charon, could you inform the others of my team to return to their quarters?”
“Certainly.” Emberwing decided to refrain from using long-range telepathy. Instead, she sent Tempo a mental image. “This central building, probably the temple, I’ve seen it in my dream.”
“Again with those Zulotchi?” The Mizol could only frown. “This makes even less sense than those elves.”
“Then we have to unravel this mystery until it does.” Back on their deck, she asked everyone to gather, and recounted the events. “The answers are finally within our reach.”
“Or just a small part, that the Humans will allow us to see.” The other Mizol was, as usual, not easily convinced. “We are led around by them. Whether this is a matter of amusement, or something far more nefarious, remains to be seen.”
“While I do agree, we are in no position to issue demands. At least, they offered to include us in the landing party.” Hopefully, not as a sacrifice, thought Emberwing, as she remembered a particularly vivid nightmare. No, that wouldn’t make any sense. “Oasis, you said that the dream about Alexander Jardin revealing himself as the one under that Zulotchi mask was an expression of his inner turmoil, anxiety, or even desires?”
“It is likely, although without a proper psychological profile, backed by the necessary telepathic scans, impossible to ascertain.” The Tiret simply shrugged, “I’m merely guessing that their psyche may favor symbolism, especially in the dreamworld.”
“They are most certainly hiding something of great importance, that’s what I think.” Fireblade joined in as well, “All those demonstrations, the Humans simply want to gauge our reaction to refine their lies.”
“You’ve just described what the Mizol always do.” Willpower looked at the Parats impishly, “Let them earn their keep and counteract those tricks.”
“Quite the challenge without telepathy.” Emberwing smirked as well, “Eight Eye, could you sense anything from the planet?”
“Still nothing.” The Bistima shook her head. “I can’t sense even the faintest lifesign, here or anywhere around us. It is truly an Empty Quarter.”
“Maybe it is those Tastadi, who project a lotai.” Emberwing turned to the Listel, “Do you know any legends about something resembling them?”
“The legends I remember do not feature any such beings.” Beryl frowned, “Unless they are invisible to us as well, then they might be the actual source of those melor myths.”
“Fine, let us stop with the wild guesses, it amounts to absolutely nothing. I really hate to admit it, but we might need that construct’s help. It’s been some time since our last contact, anyway.” Emberwing walked over to the dresser to pull out that facsimile uniform. As expected, it spoke to her.
“We greet you once more, Torret Emberwing. It is of course a pity that you decided to ignore our warnings and proceeded to cooperate with the Humans, but this is still within what we had anticipated.”
“I’m the commander of this mission, not your subordinate.” This thing’s condescending attitude was infuriating. “Also, you still haven’t explained the reason we have to be so wary of the Humans, at least beyond any normal measures.”
“We apologize for not being able to find out more about their possible backers or any goals.” It now spoke in a deferential tone. “However, we managed to acquire something of interest. The Humans were very hasty with establishing the surveillance network, giving us opportunity to connect to it. Have they explained anything regarding the nature of the debris field around the planet?”
“No, but you are surely going to tell me.” Could this puppet-thing be capable of glee as well?
“Of course, we shall transfer the data to you. The most striking feature is the chemical composition of the debris pieces.” It wasn’t outright glee, perhaps superiority. Subdued, yet still noticeable, most probably deliberately so. “Besides the usual Soia ceramics, the field also contains a surprising amount of amplifier materials.”
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXIV: Divine guidance
“Amplifiers? How much is there?” The Loroi never had the opportunity to salvage the remains of a dread-star, so she knew nothing of its composition.
“Currently, the Humans have scanned about five-eights of the field, and estimate the amount of amplification materials to be at least 1024 metric tons.” The puppet-thing returned to a more neutral tone, “It is spread rather uniformly throughout an equatorial belt, with 11 pieces exceeding a shuttle’s length.”
“What would they even need such gigantic amplifiers for?” This should be enough for about a fleet’s worth of farseer-class amplifiers. “The Humans haven’t told us anything about this find.”
“Certainly, since they are currently preparing to bring one of the larger pieces onboard.” The Construct was emphasizing this part to prove its point, “It would seem that they are not willing to share.”
“Just like you do.” Emberwing suppressed her retort, ”Beryl, were there any other finds of amplification materials in such a quantity?”
“Nothing on this order of magnitude. The biggest cache, the only remains of a farseer-class amplifier on Mezan, was about three tons in total. Usually, the finds are limited to personal amplifiers or just shards.” The Listel was quick to provide information. “Interestingly enough, we never found anything in space.”
“Those pieces may be also mere shards.” According to her dream, most of the dread-star vanished in that surreal collapse. “Thank you for providing us with this information. Although, we cannot ask the Humans about it without revealing your existence.”
“We have not contacted the Humans, so this is very much appreciated.” It understood her implied question. Maybe she was getting better at diplomacy. “Until we can ascertain their goals, remaining hidden seems to be the best option.”
“I shall postpone asking this question, while keeping the information in mind.” Yes, the Humans were indeed behaving strange. There were a lot of tests, set-ups and demonstrations, aimed at getting more information out of them. Alexander Jardin also simply admitted to doing it, and that they were also using AIs as lie detectors. Still, what bothered her was not this. If the situation was to be reversed, then they would do it as well, and even more. Rather, she had a growing suspicion that the Humans were not merely collecting all available data in general, but tried to ascertain something they already had a lead on. “Since you managed to link into their communication channels, was there anything noteworthy? Search patterns, sensor specifications, perhaps scan priorities?”
“This was far too obvious.” Immediately, she got berated by Tempo. “We want to have some hints to lead the talks with the Humans towards this fact, a leverage in order to force them to admit salvaging the amplifier pieces.”
“Completely understandable, we shall provide you with an analysis regarding this matter.” The puppet-thing agreed, or perhaps played along. “There is not much time left, do you have any other questions?”
“Should I ask about those elves? It may have information on them.” Emberwing opted to consult with the Mizol first.
“A good idea, just let me do it this time.” Tempo’s sending was gentle, yet carried some hidden pressure. “We would appreciate it if you could share any data regarding that mysterious new race, unless it violates some kind of secret agreement between our governments.”
“Telling you about the possibility of psionic dampeners was already a significant exception. However, there are no such secrets in this case.” The Historian refuted it in a calm voice, “We have absolutely no knowledge about those beings.”
“This mystery will be cleared up soon enough.” The Mizol quickly moved onto the next question, “I suppose you also know nothing about this world?”
“Unfortunately, no. Our expeditions never reached so far.” Then, the Historian continued in a very polite tone. “We would like to request something as well. Specifically, to be brought along onto the surface, in secret.”
“How?” Emberwing frowned in disgust. “You mean I should put this uniform on?!”
“That would be the easiest way to be inconspicuous.” Insisted the Construct. “We could facilitate communication, collect data and continue to offer you advice, as the need for such is surely to arise.”
“Fine, I’ll think about it.” She picked up the armor and put it back.
The suit took the hint, turning silent. “That is truly an outrageous proposal.”
“I think that the Construct is most likely curious about the planet.” Judging from her sending tone, the Listel was so as well. “Maybe it can indeed offer more information, something that is yet kept secret.”
“And in turn, the puppet-thing may collect data which it would not necessary share with us, so this arrangement should still be in its favor.” Scowled Midnight, while setting up a separate console. “Anyway, let us examine the information it sent us first.”
According to the package, the Humans were predominantly looking for amplifier materials, but this could also be explained with the knowledge they had learned recently. What stood out was the speed and efficiency of the search pattern, it almost seemed as if they already knew where to look. Currently, three shuttles were underway to recover a cylindrical piece the length of a Highland. “I’d really like to get my hands on that.”
“Except that we’re not supposed to know of its existence.” Replied Emberwing to the Bistima. Actually, she wished to get hold of it herself, there was a desire to touch this eons-old column directly. She suppressed the sudden urge, “Maybe the Humans will reveal it to us in time.”
“I’ll try to weave in a remark, should an opportunity present itself.” Tempo didn’t seem to be too confident in her success. “Still, it is very strange how they were able to find those pieces so quickly.”
“Maybe they can sense them?” Emberwing turned to Eight Eye, but the farseer simply shook her head. “This is probably related to whatever information the Humans already have. I doubt that the Captain will reveal anything, though, even if I confronted him again.”
“Please, don’t. The last time was already critical enough.” Tempo frowned ever so slightly. “We need to reach a good bargaining position where it would be possible to strike a deal.”
“Captain Emberwing, please come to the Observatory.” Charon’s sudden voice nearly startled her. “You can bring along an advisor.”
“Of course!” Judging by the time, this was most certainly about the landing party. “Tempo, it seems like you can start bargaining right away.”
The elevator was already awaiting them, and in the Observatory, both Jardins greeted the Loroi. The Captain pointed to the projection which showed the snaking valley with the nomad camp. “The most important thing first. Since the invasion is imminent, we must do something about it. Otherwise, the important people in the city will be too preoccupied to deal with us.”
“I hope you’re not proposing an orbital strike.” He had mentioned kinetic ordnance before. “They may be barbarians, but still Loroi.”
“Don’t worry, I’m not keen on slaughtering our dear cousins. Hopefully, this sentiment will be reciprocated. On all levels, mind you.” His image of the Loroi was still not very favorable, it seemed. “Those raiders think themselves oh so clever by hiding in this valley, so let’s turn the terrain against them. Drones have already deposited a number of charges, and we can collapse the steep walls near the exit, thus forcing them to make a detour of at least a week.”
The Human snapped his fingers and the narrow end of the long canyon disappeared in a cloud of dust. To compensate, the projection switched to a schematic overview, showing that this entire area was now completely blocked by rubble. What a show-off, thought Emberwing, but simply nodded. “It seems that this is taken care of. What of the landing party?”
“The advance team has finished their preliminary analysis, and we can share the data.” Alexander Jardin nodded as well. “To sum it up, it is possible to operate on this planet freely, even without spacesuits or some other special preparations. There are no dangerous pathogens, and the air may be thin and dry, but entirely breathable. Highly advanced terraforming microorganisms in the atmosphere are still producing oxygen, plenty enough given the few inhabitants. Even the food is edible, there is a surprising variety of engineered crop plants suitable for all three biochemistry patterns, Humans, elves and Loroi.”
“What is the plan? We can’t simply walk into that city.” With the nomads nearby, the inhabitants would be definitely on guard against foreigners. “Given how primitive they are, I also doubt that they could understand what visitors from space even means, if we chose to reveal ourselves.”
“You’re forgetting that we look the same, and even speak a similar language, so with a little bit of disguise and a few psionic tricks, it is indeed possible to just stroll in.” The Captain showed a daring smile. “The only problem would be to bring in Loroi. While the city’s customs allow exiles and refugees to enter, this is certainly a bad time to test their hospitality. But since I and Zarjow will be there, we can get a single one in. Or should we perhaps exclude you?”
“I remember this setting from my dream.” Or was it truly a dream? “You have certainly a lot of confidence in your abilities, but I shall trust you on that, if you’re prepared to go by yourself. Can you create a disguise for me as well, preferably a set of armor?”
“That’s the spirit expected from a fellow Captain.” He clapped his hands. “We shall add you to the team, then.”
“Going there all alone? I don’t know whether this is daring or foolish.” Sent Tempo with disapproval. “How big of a group are we speaking about?”
“Ten people are to enter one by one from multiple gates, and they shall wait nearby to support your group of three.” Ellen Jardin explained further. “Additionally, a quick response team with a shuttle will be on stand-by in the vicinity, two Loroi are free to join that one.”
“Why not sneak in? With advanced technology, this should pose no problem.” Tempo was not convinced, or rather, wanted to know their goals. “We could contact somebody of importance in secret.”
“Judging from what we learned, the Priesthood is able to see through any deceptions and unravel all secrets.” The Captain was talking about such miraculous things in a completely normal tone. “If those abilities are the real deal, then they will find such an irregularity as us soon enough. But, in the case where the tales are wildly exaggerated, then we shall first collect enough data to determine when and whom to contact. What we won’t do, is to force the matter, since confronting unknown powers may be too risky.”
“What powers? Did you learn something about those elves you secured?” Hinging it all on some outlandish legends was even more risky, thought Emberwing.
“Powers bestowed upon the clergy by their God, or at least that’s how everyone described it. The priests apparently know all that happens in their city and even far beyond.” Ellen Jardin chuckled. “The bandits were genuinely awed of such magics, terrified even, and that’s why they operated so far away from the city. The elves, on the other hand, were reverent of whatever this Deity might be, and thought us to be agents of said God, sent to rescue them in response to their prayers. Truly a fascinating example of a successful religion, don’t you think so, too?”
“Yes, I’m looking forward to meeting with the Priesthood, but I’ll abstain from playing the role of a divine messenger.” Alexander Jardin appeared to be amused as well, not taking this matter seriously enough. “In the case where it won’t work, then we’ll simply treat it all as a nice vacation with some exotic sightseeing.”
“You are rather relaxed, what if the inhabitants decide to see us as enemies?” Tempo was also annoyed at their attitude, yet removed any traces of it from her tone. “They may see you as anathema to their beliefs.”
“Unlikely, since they already have enough foes as it is. We also prepared some contingency plans, just in case.” Alexander Jardin crossed his arms. “Although I’m sure that it will go smoothly, the Priesthood does not seem to be a crazed zealots kind of religion. Our shuttles will be departing in twelve hours. Please read the information we have already sent to you, and make sure to get enough sleep.”
“Then, until tomorrow morning.” Before exiting the room, Emberwing had an idea, and turned around. “Since you want to prepare some native equipment as disguise, would it be possible to craft a sword out of metal from the debris belt? My clan, Starsword, was named after a weapon forged of metal that fell down from the sky.”
“Sky-Metal, huh, a very interesting request.” The Human Captain laughed, “I’ll relay it to William, but I can’t make any promises.”
“Don’t worry, this was just a whim of mine.” She smiled, and walked out.
“That was quite cunning.” The Mizol seemed amused. “We may be able to steer the conversation towards the debris belt every time this sword is mentioned.”
“Every bit helps.” They arrived at their deck, and Emberwing explained the plan to the others.
“Finally, some action. I will obviously come along.” The Teidar’s decision was non-negotiable.
“I’ll volunteer, too.” Surprisingly enough, Midnight spoke up next. “My sanzai range is the longest, excluding the Bistima, of course. This will be surely of use.”
“Then it is decided. Let us study the information about the planet next.” The Humans have provided them with a lot of data, yet it excluded the debris field or amplifiers. This world, Dellar, as the inhabitants called it, meant an oasis. The genesis myth was likely the reason for such a name, claiming that an entity referred to as the Transcendent One sacrificed a part of its divine essence to carry the people here, to the sole remaining bastion of life amidst the endless wastes of death.
“Does it refer to this area being the only habitable region of the planet, or perhaps to those rescue pods of the ruined dread-star you saw in the dream? Maybe both?” The Tiret looked up from her tablet, “To have an entire world named after me, this is a rather funny coincidence.”
“Calling it an oasis is a huge stretch. The biosphere barely survived a massive cataclysm, it is only thanks to the highly advanced Soia terraforming technologies that life was able to persevere.” Willpower was going through the biological data. “The native organisms are mostly gone, but whatever remained has no resemblance to known genetic structures. This confirms it, the planet cannot be our lost homeworld. Besides, those elves have nothing in common with the local lifeforms either. They resemble Humans for the most part, down to biochemistry.”
“What is even more amazing is the state of the civilization, they did not fall to the level of hunter-gatherers as we did.” Beryl was greedily devouring all information. “After a rather short period of conflicts, the elves founded the Church, which managed to establish a settled agricultural civilization, and even uphold it despite the nomad raids or hostile environmental factors.”
“But it also pushed the Loroi out of the more welcoming inner areas into the wastes.” The elves, Tastadi, somehow managed to hold onto civilization, pulling the Humans along, but the Loroi quickly regressed just the same as on Deinar, thought Emberwing. After a series of wars, the remaining barbarized, nomadic Loroi were expelled to the periphery. There, they eked out a harsh living among the desert sands, conducting raids or fighting each other over scarce resources. “What makes those elves so special? They are far closer to the Humans, with few telepathically active, having neither our longevity nor the proper gender ratio for a warrior species.”
“The Church teaches that the Loroi were punished by God for their treachery, while the devoted were rewarded with divine guidance.” Midnight shook her head. “Again with this nonsense, at least there are no references to the Zulotchi.”
“That God apparently shares its insight and wisdom with the Church. Whatever this means does not seem to be empty propaganda, though.” Sent Beryl in an astonished tone. The inhabitants managed to hold onto technology as well, systematically replacing all advanced equipment they were unable to maintain with newly produced tools, quickly adapting to local materials. “All Sister Worlds failed at those crucial steps.”
“And this world is an exception, since the Church and their God managed to save civilization again and again.” Emberwing was not religious, as most Loroi were. However, here, extraordinarily lucky victories or incredibly well-timed inventions, all spearheaded by the Priesthood, were always able to prevent the worst outcome. Not once, but every single time a large-scale conflict or an environmental disaster threatened their very survival. This was utterly improbable, far more unlikely than even that Deinar legend about a future-telling prophet. “I’m almost tempted to believe that this God actually exists. Presumably in the form of an entire cache of Soia artifacts.”
“Unfortunately, they exhausted those advanced supplies ages ago.” Beryl sounded somewhat disappointed. Eventually, the overall technological level still dropped as low as iron-working and animal power. The struggle for survival on this inhospitable world was a terrible drain of resources and lives, experiencing many ups and downs. Progress was set back countless times, and yet, civilization was never lost entirely. It always recovered thanks to the Church, with the current era seeing a re-discovery of primitive chemical explosives, printing and steel-making. Were it not for the limited habitable area and harsh climate, this planet would surely have returned to the stars ages ago, far earlier than any Sister World. “Impressive, that Priesthood is not to be underestimated.”
“Yes, especially since this deity had left a manifestation of its divine powers with the clergy.” Tempo was filtering her sending well, but some agitation still leaked through. “This may be a reference to a Soia artifact. We need to secure it, in the case where it’s still active.”
“Provided they want to give it up, which seems unlikely. What if this device is the one cloaking the entire planet? I don’t want to challenge such powers unprepared.” Trying to establish contact first would be wise indeed. “Besides, we could benefit from their expertise on how to handle the artifact.”
“Do your best winning them over, then.” Sent Willpower teasingly. “Although I think that the Humans have already contacted the locals somehow, and this is yet another spectacle or a test they seem to like so much.”
“I had a similar idea as well.” Tempo sighed. “The Captain was treating this expedition far too casual.”
“Rather, he was overly confident in their powers,” Emberwing also had a strange feeling regarding this expedition. But the chance of learning more about Human capabilities or the mysterious locals was worth the sacrifice of a single Loroi. Or even eight. “I shall exercise utmost caution.”
“Please do, I’m suspecting that the Humans could have lied about not being able to perceive the inhabitants.” Midnight sounded doubtful of them. “Maybe they are sanzaiing with those elves right now, or have the locals already developed radio?”
“We’re drifting off into paranoia, again. If anything, this may be their main goal.” Emberwing stopped this fruitless discussion. “It’s getting late. I’ll compile a list of supplies and equipment, then head off to sleep. Midnight and Fireblade, rest as well, we need to be ready for tomorrow. The others can continue to study the data, just give me an overview before departure.”
“Amplifiers? How much is there?” The Loroi never had the opportunity to salvage the remains of a dread-star, so she knew nothing of its composition.
“Currently, the Humans have scanned about five-eights of the field, and estimate the amount of amplification materials to be at least 1024 metric tons.” The puppet-thing returned to a more neutral tone, “It is spread rather uniformly throughout an equatorial belt, with 11 pieces exceeding a shuttle’s length.”
“What would they even need such gigantic amplifiers for?” This should be enough for about a fleet’s worth of farseer-class amplifiers. “The Humans haven’t told us anything about this find.”
“Certainly, since they are currently preparing to bring one of the larger pieces onboard.” The Construct was emphasizing this part to prove its point, “It would seem that they are not willing to share.”
“Just like you do.” Emberwing suppressed her retort, ”Beryl, were there any other finds of amplification materials in such a quantity?”
“Nothing on this order of magnitude. The biggest cache, the only remains of a farseer-class amplifier on Mezan, was about three tons in total. Usually, the finds are limited to personal amplifiers or just shards.” The Listel was quick to provide information. “Interestingly enough, we never found anything in space.”
“Those pieces may be also mere shards.” According to her dream, most of the dread-star vanished in that surreal collapse. “Thank you for providing us with this information. Although, we cannot ask the Humans about it without revealing your existence.”
“We have not contacted the Humans, so this is very much appreciated.” It understood her implied question. Maybe she was getting better at diplomacy. “Until we can ascertain their goals, remaining hidden seems to be the best option.”
“I shall postpone asking this question, while keeping the information in mind.” Yes, the Humans were indeed behaving strange. There were a lot of tests, set-ups and demonstrations, aimed at getting more information out of them. Alexander Jardin also simply admitted to doing it, and that they were also using AIs as lie detectors. Still, what bothered her was not this. If the situation was to be reversed, then they would do it as well, and even more. Rather, she had a growing suspicion that the Humans were not merely collecting all available data in general, but tried to ascertain something they already had a lead on. “Since you managed to link into their communication channels, was there anything noteworthy? Search patterns, sensor specifications, perhaps scan priorities?”
“This was far too obvious.” Immediately, she got berated by Tempo. “We want to have some hints to lead the talks with the Humans towards this fact, a leverage in order to force them to admit salvaging the amplifier pieces.”
“Completely understandable, we shall provide you with an analysis regarding this matter.” The puppet-thing agreed, or perhaps played along. “There is not much time left, do you have any other questions?”
“Should I ask about those elves? It may have information on them.” Emberwing opted to consult with the Mizol first.
“A good idea, just let me do it this time.” Tempo’s sending was gentle, yet carried some hidden pressure. “We would appreciate it if you could share any data regarding that mysterious new race, unless it violates some kind of secret agreement between our governments.”
“Telling you about the possibility of psionic dampeners was already a significant exception. However, there are no such secrets in this case.” The Historian refuted it in a calm voice, “We have absolutely no knowledge about those beings.”
“This mystery will be cleared up soon enough.” The Mizol quickly moved onto the next question, “I suppose you also know nothing about this world?”
“Unfortunately, no. Our expeditions never reached so far.” Then, the Historian continued in a very polite tone. “We would like to request something as well. Specifically, to be brought along onto the surface, in secret.”
“How?” Emberwing frowned in disgust. “You mean I should put this uniform on?!”
“That would be the easiest way to be inconspicuous.” Insisted the Construct. “We could facilitate communication, collect data and continue to offer you advice, as the need for such is surely to arise.”
“Fine, I’ll think about it.” She picked up the armor and put it back.
The suit took the hint, turning silent. “That is truly an outrageous proposal.”
“I think that the Construct is most likely curious about the planet.” Judging from her sending tone, the Listel was so as well. “Maybe it can indeed offer more information, something that is yet kept secret.”
“And in turn, the puppet-thing may collect data which it would not necessary share with us, so this arrangement should still be in its favor.” Scowled Midnight, while setting up a separate console. “Anyway, let us examine the information it sent us first.”
According to the package, the Humans were predominantly looking for amplifier materials, but this could also be explained with the knowledge they had learned recently. What stood out was the speed and efficiency of the search pattern, it almost seemed as if they already knew where to look. Currently, three shuttles were underway to recover a cylindrical piece the length of a Highland. “I’d really like to get my hands on that.”
“Except that we’re not supposed to know of its existence.” Replied Emberwing to the Bistima. Actually, she wished to get hold of it herself, there was a desire to touch this eons-old column directly. She suppressed the sudden urge, “Maybe the Humans will reveal it to us in time.”
“I’ll try to weave in a remark, should an opportunity present itself.” Tempo didn’t seem to be too confident in her success. “Still, it is very strange how they were able to find those pieces so quickly.”
“Maybe they can sense them?” Emberwing turned to Eight Eye, but the farseer simply shook her head. “This is probably related to whatever information the Humans already have. I doubt that the Captain will reveal anything, though, even if I confronted him again.”
“Please, don’t. The last time was already critical enough.” Tempo frowned ever so slightly. “We need to reach a good bargaining position where it would be possible to strike a deal.”
“Captain Emberwing, please come to the Observatory.” Charon’s sudden voice nearly startled her. “You can bring along an advisor.”
“Of course!” Judging by the time, this was most certainly about the landing party. “Tempo, it seems like you can start bargaining right away.”
The elevator was already awaiting them, and in the Observatory, both Jardins greeted the Loroi. The Captain pointed to the projection which showed the snaking valley with the nomad camp. “The most important thing first. Since the invasion is imminent, we must do something about it. Otherwise, the important people in the city will be too preoccupied to deal with us.”
“I hope you’re not proposing an orbital strike.” He had mentioned kinetic ordnance before. “They may be barbarians, but still Loroi.”
“Don’t worry, I’m not keen on slaughtering our dear cousins. Hopefully, this sentiment will be reciprocated. On all levels, mind you.” His image of the Loroi was still not very favorable, it seemed. “Those raiders think themselves oh so clever by hiding in this valley, so let’s turn the terrain against them. Drones have already deposited a number of charges, and we can collapse the steep walls near the exit, thus forcing them to make a detour of at least a week.”
The Human snapped his fingers and the narrow end of the long canyon disappeared in a cloud of dust. To compensate, the projection switched to a schematic overview, showing that this entire area was now completely blocked by rubble. What a show-off, thought Emberwing, but simply nodded. “It seems that this is taken care of. What of the landing party?”
“The advance team has finished their preliminary analysis, and we can share the data.” Alexander Jardin nodded as well. “To sum it up, it is possible to operate on this planet freely, even without spacesuits or some other special preparations. There are no dangerous pathogens, and the air may be thin and dry, but entirely breathable. Highly advanced terraforming microorganisms in the atmosphere are still producing oxygen, plenty enough given the few inhabitants. Even the food is edible, there is a surprising variety of engineered crop plants suitable for all three biochemistry patterns, Humans, elves and Loroi.”
“What is the plan? We can’t simply walk into that city.” With the nomads nearby, the inhabitants would be definitely on guard against foreigners. “Given how primitive they are, I also doubt that they could understand what visitors from space even means, if we chose to reveal ourselves.”
“You’re forgetting that we look the same, and even speak a similar language, so with a little bit of disguise and a few psionic tricks, it is indeed possible to just stroll in.” The Captain showed a daring smile. “The only problem would be to bring in Loroi. While the city’s customs allow exiles and refugees to enter, this is certainly a bad time to test their hospitality. But since I and Zarjow will be there, we can get a single one in. Or should we perhaps exclude you?”
“I remember this setting from my dream.” Or was it truly a dream? “You have certainly a lot of confidence in your abilities, but I shall trust you on that, if you’re prepared to go by yourself. Can you create a disguise for me as well, preferably a set of armor?”
“That’s the spirit expected from a fellow Captain.” He clapped his hands. “We shall add you to the team, then.”
“Going there all alone? I don’t know whether this is daring or foolish.” Sent Tempo with disapproval. “How big of a group are we speaking about?”
“Ten people are to enter one by one from multiple gates, and they shall wait nearby to support your group of three.” Ellen Jardin explained further. “Additionally, a quick response team with a shuttle will be on stand-by in the vicinity, two Loroi are free to join that one.”
“Why not sneak in? With advanced technology, this should pose no problem.” Tempo was not convinced, or rather, wanted to know their goals. “We could contact somebody of importance in secret.”
“Judging from what we learned, the Priesthood is able to see through any deceptions and unravel all secrets.” The Captain was talking about such miraculous things in a completely normal tone. “If those abilities are the real deal, then they will find such an irregularity as us soon enough. But, in the case where the tales are wildly exaggerated, then we shall first collect enough data to determine when and whom to contact. What we won’t do, is to force the matter, since confronting unknown powers may be too risky.”
“What powers? Did you learn something about those elves you secured?” Hinging it all on some outlandish legends was even more risky, thought Emberwing.
“Powers bestowed upon the clergy by their God, or at least that’s how everyone described it. The priests apparently know all that happens in their city and even far beyond.” Ellen Jardin chuckled. “The bandits were genuinely awed of such magics, terrified even, and that’s why they operated so far away from the city. The elves, on the other hand, were reverent of whatever this Deity might be, and thought us to be agents of said God, sent to rescue them in response to their prayers. Truly a fascinating example of a successful religion, don’t you think so, too?”
“Yes, I’m looking forward to meeting with the Priesthood, but I’ll abstain from playing the role of a divine messenger.” Alexander Jardin appeared to be amused as well, not taking this matter seriously enough. “In the case where it won’t work, then we’ll simply treat it all as a nice vacation with some exotic sightseeing.”
“You are rather relaxed, what if the inhabitants decide to see us as enemies?” Tempo was also annoyed at their attitude, yet removed any traces of it from her tone. “They may see you as anathema to their beliefs.”
“Unlikely, since they already have enough foes as it is. We also prepared some contingency plans, just in case.” Alexander Jardin crossed his arms. “Although I’m sure that it will go smoothly, the Priesthood does not seem to be a crazed zealots kind of religion. Our shuttles will be departing in twelve hours. Please read the information we have already sent to you, and make sure to get enough sleep.”
“Then, until tomorrow morning.” Before exiting the room, Emberwing had an idea, and turned around. “Since you want to prepare some native equipment as disguise, would it be possible to craft a sword out of metal from the debris belt? My clan, Starsword, was named after a weapon forged of metal that fell down from the sky.”
“Sky-Metal, huh, a very interesting request.” The Human Captain laughed, “I’ll relay it to William, but I can’t make any promises.”
“Don’t worry, this was just a whim of mine.” She smiled, and walked out.
“That was quite cunning.” The Mizol seemed amused. “We may be able to steer the conversation towards the debris belt every time this sword is mentioned.”
“Every bit helps.” They arrived at their deck, and Emberwing explained the plan to the others.
“Finally, some action. I will obviously come along.” The Teidar’s decision was non-negotiable.
“I’ll volunteer, too.” Surprisingly enough, Midnight spoke up next. “My sanzai range is the longest, excluding the Bistima, of course. This will be surely of use.”
“Then it is decided. Let us study the information about the planet next.” The Humans have provided them with a lot of data, yet it excluded the debris field or amplifiers. This world, Dellar, as the inhabitants called it, meant an oasis. The genesis myth was likely the reason for such a name, claiming that an entity referred to as the Transcendent One sacrificed a part of its divine essence to carry the people here, to the sole remaining bastion of life amidst the endless wastes of death.
“Does it refer to this area being the only habitable region of the planet, or perhaps to those rescue pods of the ruined dread-star you saw in the dream? Maybe both?” The Tiret looked up from her tablet, “To have an entire world named after me, this is a rather funny coincidence.”
“Calling it an oasis is a huge stretch. The biosphere barely survived a massive cataclysm, it is only thanks to the highly advanced Soia terraforming technologies that life was able to persevere.” Willpower was going through the biological data. “The native organisms are mostly gone, but whatever remained has no resemblance to known genetic structures. This confirms it, the planet cannot be our lost homeworld. Besides, those elves have nothing in common with the local lifeforms either. They resemble Humans for the most part, down to biochemistry.”
“What is even more amazing is the state of the civilization, they did not fall to the level of hunter-gatherers as we did.” Beryl was greedily devouring all information. “After a rather short period of conflicts, the elves founded the Church, which managed to establish a settled agricultural civilization, and even uphold it despite the nomad raids or hostile environmental factors.”
“But it also pushed the Loroi out of the more welcoming inner areas into the wastes.” The elves, Tastadi, somehow managed to hold onto civilization, pulling the Humans along, but the Loroi quickly regressed just the same as on Deinar, thought Emberwing. After a series of wars, the remaining barbarized, nomadic Loroi were expelled to the periphery. There, they eked out a harsh living among the desert sands, conducting raids or fighting each other over scarce resources. “What makes those elves so special? They are far closer to the Humans, with few telepathically active, having neither our longevity nor the proper gender ratio for a warrior species.”
“The Church teaches that the Loroi were punished by God for their treachery, while the devoted were rewarded with divine guidance.” Midnight shook her head. “Again with this nonsense, at least there are no references to the Zulotchi.”
“That God apparently shares its insight and wisdom with the Church. Whatever this means does not seem to be empty propaganda, though.” Sent Beryl in an astonished tone. The inhabitants managed to hold onto technology as well, systematically replacing all advanced equipment they were unable to maintain with newly produced tools, quickly adapting to local materials. “All Sister Worlds failed at those crucial steps.”
“And this world is an exception, since the Church and their God managed to save civilization again and again.” Emberwing was not religious, as most Loroi were. However, here, extraordinarily lucky victories or incredibly well-timed inventions, all spearheaded by the Priesthood, were always able to prevent the worst outcome. Not once, but every single time a large-scale conflict or an environmental disaster threatened their very survival. This was utterly improbable, far more unlikely than even that Deinar legend about a future-telling prophet. “I’m almost tempted to believe that this God actually exists. Presumably in the form of an entire cache of Soia artifacts.”
“Unfortunately, they exhausted those advanced supplies ages ago.” Beryl sounded somewhat disappointed. Eventually, the overall technological level still dropped as low as iron-working and animal power. The struggle for survival on this inhospitable world was a terrible drain of resources and lives, experiencing many ups and downs. Progress was set back countless times, and yet, civilization was never lost entirely. It always recovered thanks to the Church, with the current era seeing a re-discovery of primitive chemical explosives, printing and steel-making. Were it not for the limited habitable area and harsh climate, this planet would surely have returned to the stars ages ago, far earlier than any Sister World. “Impressive, that Priesthood is not to be underestimated.”
“Yes, especially since this deity had left a manifestation of its divine powers with the clergy.” Tempo was filtering her sending well, but some agitation still leaked through. “This may be a reference to a Soia artifact. We need to secure it, in the case where it’s still active.”
“Provided they want to give it up, which seems unlikely. What if this device is the one cloaking the entire planet? I don’t want to challenge such powers unprepared.” Trying to establish contact first would be wise indeed. “Besides, we could benefit from their expertise on how to handle the artifact.”
“Do your best winning them over, then.” Sent Willpower teasingly. “Although I think that the Humans have already contacted the locals somehow, and this is yet another spectacle or a test they seem to like so much.”
“I had a similar idea as well.” Tempo sighed. “The Captain was treating this expedition far too casual.”
“Rather, he was overly confident in their powers,” Emberwing also had a strange feeling regarding this expedition. But the chance of learning more about Human capabilities or the mysterious locals was worth the sacrifice of a single Loroi. Or even eight. “I shall exercise utmost caution.”
“Please do, I’m suspecting that the Humans could have lied about not being able to perceive the inhabitants.” Midnight sounded doubtful of them. “Maybe they are sanzaiing with those elves right now, or have the locals already developed radio?”
“We’re drifting off into paranoia, again. If anything, this may be their main goal.” Emberwing stopped this fruitless discussion. “It’s getting late. I’ll compile a list of supplies and equipment, then head off to sleep. Midnight and Fireblade, rest as well, we need to be ready for tomorrow. The others can continue to study the data, just give me an overview before departure.”
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Intermission V: Shattered plans
The Warrior was resting in her tent, a privilege she had earned with the recent success of her investigation. Sleeping during the hottest midday hours was great, yet the strange dreams were spoiling this reward. Ever since coming back from that city they kept haunting her, and right now, she was standing before an abyss, a sea of perfect darkness. The surface flickered, and a myriad of stars appeared on it, forming unfamiliar constellations. Those were not merely a reflection, they were entities on their own, alive, calling out, drawing her in. She experienced a strange sensation of falling down into the void, but also upwards, flying towards the tiny dots of light. Passing through, she emerged in a space of most eminent nothingness. There were only voices, countless whispers merging into a strange tune. Were they trying to tell her something? Could this be one of the fabled ancestral visions, and not a curse of that vengeful demon?
Suddenly, her dream was interrupted by a powerful tremor of the earth, and a low, booming sound shook the tent. Grabbing a weapon, she stumbled outside to see a huge column of dust rise up where the valley’s exit would be.
Were they under attack? Through the telepathic network, she received images from the guards at the canyon’s mound. The tall walls had collapsed, blocking the passage completely. This was most certainly not the aftermath of an earthquake.
“Daughter, you assured me that nobody followed you!” The powerful, and at the same time, sleepy-sounding sending from a nearby tent assailed her.
“No, I am absolutely sure!” She tried her best to resist its strength. “And even if, the Tastadi cannot possibly command such powers!”
“The new weapon, you silly girl.” The Azerein was now fully awake, and her sanzai returned to a normal level. “But you’re right, a group big enough to cause such devastation would be spotted early.”
“The Binzer might’ve tunneled their way through the cliffs.” Her sister, who stood guard at their mother’s tent, sent with disdain. “They used your carelessness, found us, and set up an ingenious trap.”
“I! was! not! followed!” She lashed out at her rival, causing her to flinch. “They may have learned of our location from that demon they worship! Otherwise, there wouldn’t be enough time to prepare something this elaborate.”
“Stop bickering in my presence, you impertinent fools! I need to think.” Judging from the images, there was absolutely no way to clear this obstacle in time. To climb up the ravine while carrying supplies and equipment would be impossible as well. The Azerein seemed to come to the same conclusion. “Fine, I admit that they have won this round. Everyone, break up the camp, we shall make a detour.”
Realizing that she had nothing on, the warrior wanted to return to the tent, yet was stopped by her mother. “And you! There’s no evidence of any wrongdoings on your part, so you get to keep your honor. But I need to dispatch a scout. You will volunteer. Bring me precise information about that new weapon.”
“Yes, my Azerein.” She made a very rude gesture towards another sister who dared to gloat. Her face turned dark blue and she retreated. “I shall not disappoint.”
“Be quick about it. We need nine days to approach the city from a different valley, have the report ready by then.” She had to succeed, her sisters would certainly use the time to damage her reputation. “Oh, just shut up, I’m not gullible enough to fall for their stupid schemes. Go, with my blessings.”
She sneered at the two sisters one last time, and ran off to get ready. With her telekinesis, it would still be possible to scale that obstacle. Since the outlying villages were likely evacuated due to their approach, she could now travel by day, which should speed up her arrival in the city. The only problem would be how to get inside, unnoticed. If that demon was truly so powerful as to locate them here, could it also find her if she sneaked in? Was her lotai sufficient? The Loroi deliberately rejected all those stories about the supposed god as lies and propaganda, yet what if they were at least partially true? No, mulling about it served no purpose. She checked her equipment one last time, strapped the magnificent sword, her pride, to her back, and set off towards the city. It would be an arduous three days' journey.
The Warrior was resting in her tent, a privilege she had earned with the recent success of her investigation. Sleeping during the hottest midday hours was great, yet the strange dreams were spoiling this reward. Ever since coming back from that city they kept haunting her, and right now, she was standing before an abyss, a sea of perfect darkness. The surface flickered, and a myriad of stars appeared on it, forming unfamiliar constellations. Those were not merely a reflection, they were entities on their own, alive, calling out, drawing her in. She experienced a strange sensation of falling down into the void, but also upwards, flying towards the tiny dots of light. Passing through, she emerged in a space of most eminent nothingness. There were only voices, countless whispers merging into a strange tune. Were they trying to tell her something? Could this be one of the fabled ancestral visions, and not a curse of that vengeful demon?
Suddenly, her dream was interrupted by a powerful tremor of the earth, and a low, booming sound shook the tent. Grabbing a weapon, she stumbled outside to see a huge column of dust rise up where the valley’s exit would be.
Were they under attack? Through the telepathic network, she received images from the guards at the canyon’s mound. The tall walls had collapsed, blocking the passage completely. This was most certainly not the aftermath of an earthquake.
“Daughter, you assured me that nobody followed you!” The powerful, and at the same time, sleepy-sounding sending from a nearby tent assailed her.
“No, I am absolutely sure!” She tried her best to resist its strength. “And even if, the Tastadi cannot possibly command such powers!”
“The new weapon, you silly girl.” The Azerein was now fully awake, and her sanzai returned to a normal level. “But you’re right, a group big enough to cause such devastation would be spotted early.”
“The Binzer might’ve tunneled their way through the cliffs.” Her sister, who stood guard at their mother’s tent, sent with disdain. “They used your carelessness, found us, and set up an ingenious trap.”
“I! was! not! followed!” She lashed out at her rival, causing her to flinch. “They may have learned of our location from that demon they worship! Otherwise, there wouldn’t be enough time to prepare something this elaborate.”
“Stop bickering in my presence, you impertinent fools! I need to think.” Judging from the images, there was absolutely no way to clear this obstacle in time. To climb up the ravine while carrying supplies and equipment would be impossible as well. The Azerein seemed to come to the same conclusion. “Fine, I admit that they have won this round. Everyone, break up the camp, we shall make a detour.”
Realizing that she had nothing on, the warrior wanted to return to the tent, yet was stopped by her mother. “And you! There’s no evidence of any wrongdoings on your part, so you get to keep your honor. But I need to dispatch a scout. You will volunteer. Bring me precise information about that new weapon.”
“Yes, my Azerein.” She made a very rude gesture towards another sister who dared to gloat. Her face turned dark blue and she retreated. “I shall not disappoint.”
“Be quick about it. We need nine days to approach the city from a different valley, have the report ready by then.” She had to succeed, her sisters would certainly use the time to damage her reputation. “Oh, just shut up, I’m not gullible enough to fall for their stupid schemes. Go, with my blessings.”
She sneered at the two sisters one last time, and ran off to get ready. With her telekinesis, it would still be possible to scale that obstacle. Since the outlying villages were likely evacuated due to their approach, she could now travel by day, which should speed up her arrival in the city. The only problem would be how to get inside, unnoticed. If that demon was truly so powerful as to locate them here, could it also find her if she sneaked in? Was her lotai sufficient? The Loroi deliberately rejected all those stories about the supposed god as lies and propaganda, yet what if they were at least partially true? No, mulling about it served no purpose. She checked her equipment one last time, strapped the magnificent sword, her pride, to her back, and set off towards the city. It would be an arduous three days' journey.
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXV: The Departure
The matter of the supplies and equipment was finished quickly enough, and Emberwing could now head to bed. A warrior needed to know how to fall asleep whenever or wherever necessary, irrespective of any other factors, and wake up in time, well-rested for battle. She attempted just that, hoping to learn more about the planet and its inhabitants in the dream. Instead, Emberwing found herself floating in outer space, facing a massive black pillar decorated with intricate golden patterns. It was emanating a tune far more elaborate than anything she had ever heard before. The song carried an enormous power, calling out to her, promising strength beyond any common boundaries. The desire to touch the column was simply irresistible, and the prickling sensation of doing so sent a mighty current through her very being.
Immediately, the strange flickers from the amplifier experience surrounded her. Far too many to count, they danced in tune to the song, slipping in and out of existence. Emberwing tried to touch them, yet the ephemeral lights simply passed through her hand, vanishing and then reappearing at random. What were those? She attempted to empower her perception by synchronizing with the psionic melody.
With this, came greater understanding. Those wisps were not transient, there was an unfathomable profoundness to their existence, an abyss of unknown concepts lurking just below the rippling surface. The tempting emanations from deep below lured her to dive further in, and spellbound, she complied. Now, surrounded by a perfect darkness, she could somehow perceive it as a myriad of interconnected patterns, stretching out into eternity. Yet, before being able to explore this strange realm, she found out that outsiders were not welcome here. A sudden, searing outburst of light blinded her, and she was flung out of the vision, with a similar burning sensation as before. Midway in the fiery descent, however, she was caught by the Human Captain.
“I see that you’ve now experienced the same dream.” Alexander Jardin was holding her with both arms as they were standing in the cargo bay of his ship. Unsurprisingly enough, that massive pillar was already there as well. Weathered, silent, and with the golden patterns dulled by eons, yet still majestic, it stood there, supported by a scaffold. “This feeling of transcendence is quite exhilarating, but I suppose you don’t know where it comes from, or what that flash might’ve been?”
“I’d like to know as well.” The physical link, even though it was just a dream, enhanced their connection. Through it, she could sense that he was genuinely curious. There was also a rather strange undertone. Perhaps even suggestive, related to how she was being held. “Could you let me down?”
“No. Not until you tell me why you don’t seem to be fazed after seeing this amplifier piece here.” He laughed. The link apparently worked both ways. “Don’t try to deceive a telepath, you know that I know, and all that, ad infinitum.”
“We have our secrets as well.” Emberwing shielded her mind and suppressed any runaway emotions. “Just as you’ve kept this artifact hidden from us.”
“And here I thought that we may trade some secrets. Fine, no deal then.” He simply dropped her, and she woke up.
What a rude way to threat her, grumbled Emberwing as she got out of bed. No, that wasn’t her own line of reasoning, but a Human’s way of thinking, so she discarded this residual notion. Looking at the clock, it was a bit earlier than the alarm was set for, but going back to sleep was out of question. As soon as she finished all morning chores, and sat down to eat, the computer’s voice addressed her politely. “The Captain wants to speak with you.”
“Not now, I’m eating.” She would see him soon enough, anyway. Selecting something delicious had priority.
“Are you angry, by chance?” The food menu was suddenly replaced with the Captain’s holographic projection. Fortunately, she already managed to order.
“Not in particular. Maybe disappointed.” Emberwing turned around to get her food from the chute. “It was to be expected, given your penchant for secrecy.”
“I didn’t mean the artifact.” He chuckled. “But if this matter is that important, do you want to see the real thing, as an apology? We do have a bit of time left before departure.”
Was he toying with her? Judging from his expression, certainly, and even Beryl followed this exchange with amusement. As soon as the Captain mentioned the artifact, though, she immediately perked up. At least she had enough restraint and didn’t jump out of the bathroom. “I want to see it as well!”
“Don’t get caught up in their schemes.” Emberwing sighed. “I have no idea what you’re up to, but it would be impossible to waste such an opportunity. Just let me finish my meal.”
“Of course, the lift will be waiting for you.” The projection disappeared.
“Anything new from the information analysis?” This unusually tasty dish was apparently made from the eggs of domesticated animals. Or, at least, the original one would be. “Primarily, I need the language and customs of the locals.”
“Midnight has compiled a language database.” The Listel sent her a telepathic report. “And I studied the culture. This settlement, the City of Pillars, is the most important holy site of the Church, housing their main shrine and something called the Vestige. An annual harvest festival is held in honor of the Deity’s blessings right around this time, attracting many visitors and pilgrims. Unfortunately, the nomad raid came earlier than usual or expected, disrupting the celebrations.”
“If the city is so well-frequented, then it would make our infiltration easier.” The naming was a bit strange, could it be related to a similar artifact? She sent her the mental image from the latest dream. “Why is it called the City of Pillars, and what’s the vestige?”
“We don’t have enough data. One of the bandits was a deserter from the city’s garrison, and he provided some general information and rumors. That’s simply what everyone had called the settlement for as long as it existed. But the Vestige is in the central shrine which only a selected few are permitted to enter, so he had no idea what it actually is.” The Listel paused for a moment, processing the dream. “I see what you mean, it may be a coincidence, but there’s probably more to it. We’d need to compare both artifacts to be sure.”
“Then, I’ll head out to see it.” As expected, the elevator was awaiting her. “To the Captain, please.”
“Certainly, he is in cargo bay 2.” Answered the computer.
“Over here!” Stepping out, she was called by Alexander Jardin. He led her to the otherwise empty bay, and pointed at the massive pillar erected there. “What a sight, don’t you agree? Touch it, if you’d like.”
“May I?” As she approached the artifact, Emberwing could hear an almost inaudible whisper of a song, incomparably weaker than the overwhelming tune from the dream, or even an amplifier.
“Feel free to.” Alexander Jardin said assuredly. “We’ve dusted it off, ran several security checks, and I’ve already touched it, there’s no danger.”
“It’s not the matter of being afraid.” Tersely, she put her hand on the uneven surface, ready for anything. The cautiousness was in vain, however, since nothing happened. No psionic tune, no vision, or any other reaction, for that matter. Upon concentrating to the best of her abilities, she noticed that even the whisper did not seem to originate from the pillar. The tune simply slipped away from her attempts to sense it, the source being too fleeting to pinpoint. Emberwing opened her eyes, which she did not even remember closing. “I cannot feel any response, only the general idea of something present in the room.”
“Quite the disappointment after that grandiose dream.” Alexander Jardin was touching the pillar as well. “We couldn’t get this psionic machine to work either. There’s indeed a faint, diffuse reaction, but it doesn’t seem to do anything or provide feedback.”
“Machine?” She switched her focus from trying to locate the whisper’s source back to the Human. “What can you sense?”
“Well, you’ve told us that amplifiers are magnifying glasses of sorts. Or, perhaps levers? A broken one, as you can see, and this may be the reason we cannot grasp it.” The Captain pointed at the lower end, which was sheared off. Certainly, comparing her own height to the column, this piece was indeed much shorter than the one in the dream. The Human let go of the surface, and made a gesture encompassing the artifact. “But what powers does it work upon? Or how? If it is merely a passive enhancer, then those abilities must be already present in us.”
“Whatever I saw in the dream was definitely beyond anything we are capable of, far too alien to even comprehend.” And yet, strangely fascinating. “Just as with the previous dreams, could all those visions be remnants of stored memories?”
“Whose, of the Soia? Interesting theory, although I have no idea how that would be possible. Well, any sufficiently advanced technology should be indistinguishable from magic.” He knocked on the pillar muttering something. “Not opening, huh? It seems we need to find an active or at least an intact one. Let’s hope that the artifact in the city is still working, I have a feeling that it should be able to answer our questions.”
“Wait, why are you so sure that there’s one, or that it’s active?” She eyed him with suspicion. “You also didn’t answer my question about your impression of the pillar here.”
“Of this column? It’s simply old.” The Captain raised an eyebrow. “Regarding your inquiry, let’s start with a counter-question, how do you know that we had collected anything? A secret for a secret, remember? But to answer your question as a measure of goodwill, it was the usual, we saw a guiding dream and followed its hints.”
“What a coincidence, I saw this in a dream as well.” Emberwing had a distinct feeling that he was not outright lying, yet certainly withholding information. This was merely an inkling, not at the level of the inherent honesty of the sanzai sub-channel, but she was still somehow sure of his deception, and decided to pay in kind. “Let’s visit that temple, then.”
“Still no deal?” He smirked. “We even made a Sword of the Stars for you, princess.”
“I’m not a siirrin and this word is no longer being used in such a way.” Was he trying to rile her up as a distraction? “A trade you seem so keen on may be commenced once we know what the goods actually are supposed to be.”
“The trust issue, again, I understand. Hopefully, the mission will be able to convince you of our good intentions, as well as the benefits of cooperation. We also shall include your specialists in the study of this object.” He then pointed at a bag lying by the exit. “Inside are the sword and a suit of armor. The shuttles for the infiltration and the extraction teams will both depart in three hours, please make sure to be on time.”
“Of course. Thank you for the blade.” She picked up the equipment and returned to her cabin.
“How was the artifact?” Beryl was brimming with curiosity.
“Inactive.” She sent her the mental picture. “Well, at least he said that we may inspect it. Tempo, can you work out the details?”
“Certainly, I will oversee the team personally.” The Mizol nodded. “The Bistima’s abilities would make more sense of it.”
“I’ll do my utmost.” The Farseer had received the transmission as well. “That echo you’ve heard could mean that the artifact is damaged, but not destroyed entirely. It should still be possible to analyze it. “
“We will refrain from sharing any data on this matter with the away teams over the comm channels.” Decided Emberwing. “Giving the Construct or the Humans more information without recompense would be unwise. Give me the report once I return.”
“I agree completely, the Humans are far ahead of us regarding information anyway.” The other Mizol was still studying the planet’s data. She looked up, and gave Emberwing a tablet device. “I’ve made a linguistic comparison, it may help you blend in better.”
“Thank you.” Emberwing spent the next hours adapting to this version of Trade, and learned more of the inhabitant’s common sense. Apparently, it was indeed possible for Loroi to freely enter and even live in the city. They weren’t well-liked, and mostly confined to the slums, but this was still better than their reception in all other towns. Exiled warriors, escaped civilians, or simply any Loroi who fled from the harsh climate and the even harsher clan system found here a new home. Were her unusually detailed and accurate dreams somebody’s else memories, then?
Regardless of their status as de-facto second class citizens, not all Loroi were completely destitute. Most found jobs, usually rough manual labor, or in the case of warriors, work as sellswords. That would be her cover-story as well, a member of a team of ruin explorers coming back from a very long expedition. In a sense, this was not even entirely untrue. Such a dangerous profession attracted all kinds of misfits, who would venture away from civilization for months or even years. Employing Loroi, being unacquainted with the latest happenings, or simply standing out would be then easy to explain. On the other hand, the explorers brought back valuable artifacts from lost cities or even Soia ruins, and therefore, commanded a certain amount of respect and awe.
If necessary, the Humans would use their powers to make the gate guards believe this setup, and afterwards, they could head straight to the shadier part of the city where nobody asked too many questions. Several prospective locations for a temporary base of operations were already selected as well. Somehow, the Humans were very adept at this kind of work, especially the speed and efficiency with which they had extracted information was noteworthy. “Tempo, can you analyze their methods as well? The Humans had obtained and systematized so much data in a very short amount of time.”
“Of course, it seems that they had brought along very capable personnel.” The Mizol sounded slightly amused. “Be wary.”
“Was that professional praise? I suppose that the Construct would be a good hidden piece to counteract them.” It was about time to depart, so she retrieved the facsimile uniform. Yet this time, it kept silent. “Not even deigning to answer me? Maybe we should leave the puppet-thing here.”
“I’ve received a message just now.” Midnight kept her face expressionless. “It says that the Historian is ready, but cannot secure a proper conversation. However, it can link into the normal comm channels, and hide its activity between our messages.”
“This puppet-thing really tries its best to be brought along. I wonder what hidden agenda is driving it.” She put the suit on. “Anyway, if we can get something out of this cooperation, then the better.”
Fireblade, who was already wearing full combat gear, helped her equip the disguise. This armor consisted of reinforced leather clothing, with woven-in metal plates protecting the upper body. On the outside, at least. While it was made to look primitive, the actual material was highly advanced. There were also a great number of hidden pockets, so she used them to store a blaster pistol, several scanners, and other equipment. “First the proficiency in interrogation, now the quality of this disguise. Why are the Humans so well-versed in infiltrating a savage world?”
“Probably because they are still savages themselves.” Midnight put on combat gear as well. “Unfortunately, we have to play along with their whims.”
“Never underestimate your foe, this is the first and often last mistake a foolish warrior can make.” Fireblade sounded unusually stern. “My instructor was very throughout in beating this into our skulls.”
“Our mission is to make them into allies, remember? I will keep this advice in mind, of course.” Emberwing drew the sword to inspect it. The blade was single-edged and slightly curved, with a wavy pattern to simulate a simple way of making steel. Upon a closer look, this alloy was definitely far above such crudeness. She tried to cut a spare ceramic armor plate, and it sliced through the material with frightening ease. “I hope we don’t run into a situation where I have to use it, my rusty skills probably won’t match this magnificent eides. Anyway, the planet awaits.”
As they approached the elevator, a lift capsule with Ellen Jardin in it arrived just in time. She looked at them and grinned. “Now you actually look the part. Is the armor to your liking?”
“Yes, it is similar enough to what ancient Loroi warriors on Deinar had worn.” This design offered sufficient protection, and provided enough freedom of movement, while making the best use of the likely rare processed metal. “The Loroi here wear this?”
“This armor is what the higher-ranking ones have.” The woman nodded. “We removed the colored sash, though, it should signify clan allegiance, which your character no longer has.”
“I see.” Even this part was very similar to Deinar traditions. “What kind of leather is this supposed to mimic?”
“The best one, a native creature resembling a cross between a tortoise, a crocodile, and a snake.” The Tactician paused. “The locals call it a dragon, by the way.”
Before she could ask what those animals were, or why the dragons had surfaced yet again, they arrived in the cargo bay. Twenty Humans, clad in gray armored suits with the faceless helmets, were awaiting them there.
Among them stood Alexander Jardin, wearing a disguise as well. Equipped in chainmail armor with a blackened steel breastplate and covered by a rough leather mantle, he looked utterly out of place in a spaceship. Not to mention that the sight of a male warrior was plenty ridiculous, too. Nonchalantly ignoring the discrepancy, he addressed her in an exaggerated way. “Ready to conquer yet another world with magic and blade, elven princess?”
“I’m neither an elf nor a princess.” Was he treating this expedition like one of those virtual games? “Let’s get going.”
“Certainly.” Together with eight troopers, they boarded a shuttle, and the other two Loroi a second one. The Captain began explaining. “We shall land out of sight on a plateau, descend into the valley in a vehicle, then use a boat to get close to the city, and finally, walk the rest of the way.“
“You seem to be very confident, especially given the uniqueness of this operation.” Or maybe they regarded any casualties as an acceptable sacrifice?
“I’m confident in my preparations.” He said this in a serious tone. “We have thoroughly interrogated the locals, established a dense surveillance net and processed all the data with AIs. The only wildcard left is the Priesthood and their artifact. But, if approached carefully and without hostility, we should be able to establish a means of communication. Besides, I’m simply sure that we will succeed.”
“Is this merely a way to assuage yourself, or do you have actual powers enabling foresight?” Emberwing frowned.
“Maybe a little of both?” He smirked. “Perhaps a demonstration of what we can do will provide a better understanding, once we can secure a few volunteers to act as targets.”
“I’m looking forward to it.” The shuttle began vibrating, they were likely entering the atmosphere. “Won’t the inhabitants be alarmed by our descent?”
“We’re flying in on a steep trajectory following the day-night boundary.” Despite this aggressive landing maneuver, the shaking was far weaker than even in a Highland. “This should make us invisible and shorten up the journey.”
“Good, we don’t have any time to waste.” The detour was already frustrating enough. Hopefully, this planet’s secrets would make up for that.
“Don’t worry, we have already launched the courier drones with all the information. Fast ships will head towards your Empire soon enough to establish contact.” He exchanged looks with another Human and nodded. “Our mission right now is probably even more important. Let us make history.”
The shuttle shuddered once, they had finally landed.
The matter of the supplies and equipment was finished quickly enough, and Emberwing could now head to bed. A warrior needed to know how to fall asleep whenever or wherever necessary, irrespective of any other factors, and wake up in time, well-rested for battle. She attempted just that, hoping to learn more about the planet and its inhabitants in the dream. Instead, Emberwing found herself floating in outer space, facing a massive black pillar decorated with intricate golden patterns. It was emanating a tune far more elaborate than anything she had ever heard before. The song carried an enormous power, calling out to her, promising strength beyond any common boundaries. The desire to touch the column was simply irresistible, and the prickling sensation of doing so sent a mighty current through her very being.
Immediately, the strange flickers from the amplifier experience surrounded her. Far too many to count, they danced in tune to the song, slipping in and out of existence. Emberwing tried to touch them, yet the ephemeral lights simply passed through her hand, vanishing and then reappearing at random. What were those? She attempted to empower her perception by synchronizing with the psionic melody.
With this, came greater understanding. Those wisps were not transient, there was an unfathomable profoundness to their existence, an abyss of unknown concepts lurking just below the rippling surface. The tempting emanations from deep below lured her to dive further in, and spellbound, she complied. Now, surrounded by a perfect darkness, she could somehow perceive it as a myriad of interconnected patterns, stretching out into eternity. Yet, before being able to explore this strange realm, she found out that outsiders were not welcome here. A sudden, searing outburst of light blinded her, and she was flung out of the vision, with a similar burning sensation as before. Midway in the fiery descent, however, she was caught by the Human Captain.
“I see that you’ve now experienced the same dream.” Alexander Jardin was holding her with both arms as they were standing in the cargo bay of his ship. Unsurprisingly enough, that massive pillar was already there as well. Weathered, silent, and with the golden patterns dulled by eons, yet still majestic, it stood there, supported by a scaffold. “This feeling of transcendence is quite exhilarating, but I suppose you don’t know where it comes from, or what that flash might’ve been?”
“I’d like to know as well.” The physical link, even though it was just a dream, enhanced their connection. Through it, she could sense that he was genuinely curious. There was also a rather strange undertone. Perhaps even suggestive, related to how she was being held. “Could you let me down?”
“No. Not until you tell me why you don’t seem to be fazed after seeing this amplifier piece here.” He laughed. The link apparently worked both ways. “Don’t try to deceive a telepath, you know that I know, and all that, ad infinitum.”
“We have our secrets as well.” Emberwing shielded her mind and suppressed any runaway emotions. “Just as you’ve kept this artifact hidden from us.”
“And here I thought that we may trade some secrets. Fine, no deal then.” He simply dropped her, and she woke up.
What a rude way to threat her, grumbled Emberwing as she got out of bed. No, that wasn’t her own line of reasoning, but a Human’s way of thinking, so she discarded this residual notion. Looking at the clock, it was a bit earlier than the alarm was set for, but going back to sleep was out of question. As soon as she finished all morning chores, and sat down to eat, the computer’s voice addressed her politely. “The Captain wants to speak with you.”
“Not now, I’m eating.” She would see him soon enough, anyway. Selecting something delicious had priority.
“Are you angry, by chance?” The food menu was suddenly replaced with the Captain’s holographic projection. Fortunately, she already managed to order.
“Not in particular. Maybe disappointed.” Emberwing turned around to get her food from the chute. “It was to be expected, given your penchant for secrecy.”
“I didn’t mean the artifact.” He chuckled. “But if this matter is that important, do you want to see the real thing, as an apology? We do have a bit of time left before departure.”
Was he toying with her? Judging from his expression, certainly, and even Beryl followed this exchange with amusement. As soon as the Captain mentioned the artifact, though, she immediately perked up. At least she had enough restraint and didn’t jump out of the bathroom. “I want to see it as well!”
“Don’t get caught up in their schemes.” Emberwing sighed. “I have no idea what you’re up to, but it would be impossible to waste such an opportunity. Just let me finish my meal.”
“Of course, the lift will be waiting for you.” The projection disappeared.
“Anything new from the information analysis?” This unusually tasty dish was apparently made from the eggs of domesticated animals. Or, at least, the original one would be. “Primarily, I need the language and customs of the locals.”
“Midnight has compiled a language database.” The Listel sent her a telepathic report. “And I studied the culture. This settlement, the City of Pillars, is the most important holy site of the Church, housing their main shrine and something called the Vestige. An annual harvest festival is held in honor of the Deity’s blessings right around this time, attracting many visitors and pilgrims. Unfortunately, the nomad raid came earlier than usual or expected, disrupting the celebrations.”
“If the city is so well-frequented, then it would make our infiltration easier.” The naming was a bit strange, could it be related to a similar artifact? She sent her the mental image from the latest dream. “Why is it called the City of Pillars, and what’s the vestige?”
“We don’t have enough data. One of the bandits was a deserter from the city’s garrison, and he provided some general information and rumors. That’s simply what everyone had called the settlement for as long as it existed. But the Vestige is in the central shrine which only a selected few are permitted to enter, so he had no idea what it actually is.” The Listel paused for a moment, processing the dream. “I see what you mean, it may be a coincidence, but there’s probably more to it. We’d need to compare both artifacts to be sure.”
“Then, I’ll head out to see it.” As expected, the elevator was awaiting her. “To the Captain, please.”
“Certainly, he is in cargo bay 2.” Answered the computer.
“Over here!” Stepping out, she was called by Alexander Jardin. He led her to the otherwise empty bay, and pointed at the massive pillar erected there. “What a sight, don’t you agree? Touch it, if you’d like.”
“May I?” As she approached the artifact, Emberwing could hear an almost inaudible whisper of a song, incomparably weaker than the overwhelming tune from the dream, or even an amplifier.
“Feel free to.” Alexander Jardin said assuredly. “We’ve dusted it off, ran several security checks, and I’ve already touched it, there’s no danger.”
“It’s not the matter of being afraid.” Tersely, she put her hand on the uneven surface, ready for anything. The cautiousness was in vain, however, since nothing happened. No psionic tune, no vision, or any other reaction, for that matter. Upon concentrating to the best of her abilities, she noticed that even the whisper did not seem to originate from the pillar. The tune simply slipped away from her attempts to sense it, the source being too fleeting to pinpoint. Emberwing opened her eyes, which she did not even remember closing. “I cannot feel any response, only the general idea of something present in the room.”
“Quite the disappointment after that grandiose dream.” Alexander Jardin was touching the pillar as well. “We couldn’t get this psionic machine to work either. There’s indeed a faint, diffuse reaction, but it doesn’t seem to do anything or provide feedback.”
“Machine?” She switched her focus from trying to locate the whisper’s source back to the Human. “What can you sense?”
“Well, you’ve told us that amplifiers are magnifying glasses of sorts. Or, perhaps levers? A broken one, as you can see, and this may be the reason we cannot grasp it.” The Captain pointed at the lower end, which was sheared off. Certainly, comparing her own height to the column, this piece was indeed much shorter than the one in the dream. The Human let go of the surface, and made a gesture encompassing the artifact. “But what powers does it work upon? Or how? If it is merely a passive enhancer, then those abilities must be already present in us.”
“Whatever I saw in the dream was definitely beyond anything we are capable of, far too alien to even comprehend.” And yet, strangely fascinating. “Just as with the previous dreams, could all those visions be remnants of stored memories?”
“Whose, of the Soia? Interesting theory, although I have no idea how that would be possible. Well, any sufficiently advanced technology should be indistinguishable from magic.” He knocked on the pillar muttering something. “Not opening, huh? It seems we need to find an active or at least an intact one. Let’s hope that the artifact in the city is still working, I have a feeling that it should be able to answer our questions.”
“Wait, why are you so sure that there’s one, or that it’s active?” She eyed him with suspicion. “You also didn’t answer my question about your impression of the pillar here.”
“Of this column? It’s simply old.” The Captain raised an eyebrow. “Regarding your inquiry, let’s start with a counter-question, how do you know that we had collected anything? A secret for a secret, remember? But to answer your question as a measure of goodwill, it was the usual, we saw a guiding dream and followed its hints.”
“What a coincidence, I saw this in a dream as well.” Emberwing had a distinct feeling that he was not outright lying, yet certainly withholding information. This was merely an inkling, not at the level of the inherent honesty of the sanzai sub-channel, but she was still somehow sure of his deception, and decided to pay in kind. “Let’s visit that temple, then.”
“Still no deal?” He smirked. “We even made a Sword of the Stars for you, princess.”
“I’m not a siirrin and this word is no longer being used in such a way.” Was he trying to rile her up as a distraction? “A trade you seem so keen on may be commenced once we know what the goods actually are supposed to be.”
“The trust issue, again, I understand. Hopefully, the mission will be able to convince you of our good intentions, as well as the benefits of cooperation. We also shall include your specialists in the study of this object.” He then pointed at a bag lying by the exit. “Inside are the sword and a suit of armor. The shuttles for the infiltration and the extraction teams will both depart in three hours, please make sure to be on time.”
“Of course. Thank you for the blade.” She picked up the equipment and returned to her cabin.
“How was the artifact?” Beryl was brimming with curiosity.
“Inactive.” She sent her the mental picture. “Well, at least he said that we may inspect it. Tempo, can you work out the details?”
“Certainly, I will oversee the team personally.” The Mizol nodded. “The Bistima’s abilities would make more sense of it.”
“I’ll do my utmost.” The Farseer had received the transmission as well. “That echo you’ve heard could mean that the artifact is damaged, but not destroyed entirely. It should still be possible to analyze it. “
“We will refrain from sharing any data on this matter with the away teams over the comm channels.” Decided Emberwing. “Giving the Construct or the Humans more information without recompense would be unwise. Give me the report once I return.”
“I agree completely, the Humans are far ahead of us regarding information anyway.” The other Mizol was still studying the planet’s data. She looked up, and gave Emberwing a tablet device. “I’ve made a linguistic comparison, it may help you blend in better.”
“Thank you.” Emberwing spent the next hours adapting to this version of Trade, and learned more of the inhabitant’s common sense. Apparently, it was indeed possible for Loroi to freely enter and even live in the city. They weren’t well-liked, and mostly confined to the slums, but this was still better than their reception in all other towns. Exiled warriors, escaped civilians, or simply any Loroi who fled from the harsh climate and the even harsher clan system found here a new home. Were her unusually detailed and accurate dreams somebody’s else memories, then?
Regardless of their status as de-facto second class citizens, not all Loroi were completely destitute. Most found jobs, usually rough manual labor, or in the case of warriors, work as sellswords. That would be her cover-story as well, a member of a team of ruin explorers coming back from a very long expedition. In a sense, this was not even entirely untrue. Such a dangerous profession attracted all kinds of misfits, who would venture away from civilization for months or even years. Employing Loroi, being unacquainted with the latest happenings, or simply standing out would be then easy to explain. On the other hand, the explorers brought back valuable artifacts from lost cities or even Soia ruins, and therefore, commanded a certain amount of respect and awe.
If necessary, the Humans would use their powers to make the gate guards believe this setup, and afterwards, they could head straight to the shadier part of the city where nobody asked too many questions. Several prospective locations for a temporary base of operations were already selected as well. Somehow, the Humans were very adept at this kind of work, especially the speed and efficiency with which they had extracted information was noteworthy. “Tempo, can you analyze their methods as well? The Humans had obtained and systematized so much data in a very short amount of time.”
“Of course, it seems that they had brought along very capable personnel.” The Mizol sounded slightly amused. “Be wary.”
“Was that professional praise? I suppose that the Construct would be a good hidden piece to counteract them.” It was about time to depart, so she retrieved the facsimile uniform. Yet this time, it kept silent. “Not even deigning to answer me? Maybe we should leave the puppet-thing here.”
“I’ve received a message just now.” Midnight kept her face expressionless. “It says that the Historian is ready, but cannot secure a proper conversation. However, it can link into the normal comm channels, and hide its activity between our messages.”
“This puppet-thing really tries its best to be brought along. I wonder what hidden agenda is driving it.” She put the suit on. “Anyway, if we can get something out of this cooperation, then the better.”
Fireblade, who was already wearing full combat gear, helped her equip the disguise. This armor consisted of reinforced leather clothing, with woven-in metal plates protecting the upper body. On the outside, at least. While it was made to look primitive, the actual material was highly advanced. There were also a great number of hidden pockets, so she used them to store a blaster pistol, several scanners, and other equipment. “First the proficiency in interrogation, now the quality of this disguise. Why are the Humans so well-versed in infiltrating a savage world?”
“Probably because they are still savages themselves.” Midnight put on combat gear as well. “Unfortunately, we have to play along with their whims.”
“Never underestimate your foe, this is the first and often last mistake a foolish warrior can make.” Fireblade sounded unusually stern. “My instructor was very throughout in beating this into our skulls.”
“Our mission is to make them into allies, remember? I will keep this advice in mind, of course.” Emberwing drew the sword to inspect it. The blade was single-edged and slightly curved, with a wavy pattern to simulate a simple way of making steel. Upon a closer look, this alloy was definitely far above such crudeness. She tried to cut a spare ceramic armor plate, and it sliced through the material with frightening ease. “I hope we don’t run into a situation where I have to use it, my rusty skills probably won’t match this magnificent eides. Anyway, the planet awaits.”
As they approached the elevator, a lift capsule with Ellen Jardin in it arrived just in time. She looked at them and grinned. “Now you actually look the part. Is the armor to your liking?”
“Yes, it is similar enough to what ancient Loroi warriors on Deinar had worn.” This design offered sufficient protection, and provided enough freedom of movement, while making the best use of the likely rare processed metal. “The Loroi here wear this?”
“This armor is what the higher-ranking ones have.” The woman nodded. “We removed the colored sash, though, it should signify clan allegiance, which your character no longer has.”
“I see.” Even this part was very similar to Deinar traditions. “What kind of leather is this supposed to mimic?”
“The best one, a native creature resembling a cross between a tortoise, a crocodile, and a snake.” The Tactician paused. “The locals call it a dragon, by the way.”
Before she could ask what those animals were, or why the dragons had surfaced yet again, they arrived in the cargo bay. Twenty Humans, clad in gray armored suits with the faceless helmets, were awaiting them there.
Among them stood Alexander Jardin, wearing a disguise as well. Equipped in chainmail armor with a blackened steel breastplate and covered by a rough leather mantle, he looked utterly out of place in a spaceship. Not to mention that the sight of a male warrior was plenty ridiculous, too. Nonchalantly ignoring the discrepancy, he addressed her in an exaggerated way. “Ready to conquer yet another world with magic and blade, elven princess?”
“I’m neither an elf nor a princess.” Was he treating this expedition like one of those virtual games? “Let’s get going.”
“Certainly.” Together with eight troopers, they boarded a shuttle, and the other two Loroi a second one. The Captain began explaining. “We shall land out of sight on a plateau, descend into the valley in a vehicle, then use a boat to get close to the city, and finally, walk the rest of the way.“
“You seem to be very confident, especially given the uniqueness of this operation.” Or maybe they regarded any casualties as an acceptable sacrifice?
“I’m confident in my preparations.” He said this in a serious tone. “We have thoroughly interrogated the locals, established a dense surveillance net and processed all the data with AIs. The only wildcard left is the Priesthood and their artifact. But, if approached carefully and without hostility, we should be able to establish a means of communication. Besides, I’m simply sure that we will succeed.”
“Is this merely a way to assuage yourself, or do you have actual powers enabling foresight?” Emberwing frowned.
“Maybe a little of both?” He smirked. “Perhaps a demonstration of what we can do will provide a better understanding, once we can secure a few volunteers to act as targets.”
“I’m looking forward to it.” The shuttle began vibrating, they were likely entering the atmosphere. “Won’t the inhabitants be alarmed by our descent?”
“We’re flying in on a steep trajectory following the day-night boundary.” Despite this aggressive landing maneuver, the shaking was far weaker than even in a Highland. “This should make us invisible and shorten up the journey.”
“Good, we don’t have any time to waste.” The detour was already frustrating enough. Hopefully, this planet’s secrets would make up for that.
“Don’t worry, we have already launched the courier drones with all the information. Fast ships will head towards your Empire soon enough to establish contact.” He exchanged looks with another Human and nodded. “Our mission right now is probably even more important. Let us make history.”
The shuttle shuddered once, they had finally landed.
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Chapter XXXXVI: A leap into the Unknown
Alexander Jardin was handed a spear by a subordinate, then headed towards the airlock. After they gathered inside, he pressed on the controls, and with a popping sound, the shuttle doors opened, letting in the planet’s atmosphere. It was somewhat thin, dry, and with a weak, unfamiliar, slightly spicy scent. At least the air wasn’t hot, still carrying the early morning’s coolness.
“I’ll go first.” The Captain stepped out, holding that lance high. Suddenly, with a flick of his wrist, a blue flag expanded from the pole, and he rammed it into the ground. “I claim this system in the name of the Terran Empire!”
Emberwing followed him next. The rocky plateau they landed on was desolate, colored in a uniform dusty-brown hue, and almost devoid of any vegetation. “A rather rustic domain.”
“This was just something I’ve always wanted to do.” He turned around, and spread out his arms. “With some terraforming, this wasteland may become the garden world the Soia intended.”
“That can be staved off until later. We have an important task before us, and a severe shortage of time.” She shook her head, this was not a leisure trip!
“No problem, we’ll take the express route.” He pointed towards a camp to their right. Two shuttles stood there, and a number of Humans were operating various pieces of equipment. Judging from the many antennas and sensors, this was probably a comm station. There were also numerous weird, open hovercars standing in rows, nothing more than a framework, but with a weapon mounted on top. “With one of those speeders, we’ll drive to the river, where Zarjow awaits us with a boat. Others will enter by different means.”
The second shuttle made a low pass to land a short distance away. Stirred up by the engines, a gust swept by, intensifying the alien odors. Yet, there was something else in the air as well. Not exactly a tingling sensation or an audible whisper, the desert wind carried an ever so faint foreboding of something she couldn’t even assign a concept to. Were her senses playing a trick on her?
Emberwing pulled out a handheld scanner, and ran a quick test. But the results regarding the atmospheric composition matched what the Humans submitted. There were also no unknown patterns in the air vibrations, no unusual residue of the engines, or any radiation sources. Could those emanations be of psionic nature? Emberwing looked at the Captain, who was staring at her with slight amusement. “There is nothing dangerous here, the unusual smell you’re likely noticing is coming from the dust’s unique composition.”
“I was checking it as per standard protocol.” She decided not to mention her theory. “Midnight, Fireblade, can you sense something that’s out of order?”
“Nothing in particular, there’s also no one else we can detect.” The two Loroi disembarked from the shuttle and headed over. The Mizol addressed the Human, “Captain Alexander Jardin, I hope that we can join up with Torret Emberwing once a base of operations is secured.”
“Yes, this can be arranged for after we’ve ascertained the Temple’s ability to locate us, and gauged their reaction towards Loroi.” Alexander Jardin put a hand on the sword’s handle. “In the meantime, I can protect her, so your Teidar guard doesn’t need to worry.”
As expected, this statement caused Fireblade to frown, although she refrained from saying anything out loud. “A male wants to match my powers!? Should I probe his mettle?”
“Please don’t provoke anyone, we have no idea whether they can hold back.” She had heard about certain Teidar traditions of testing others. A light push someone of sufficient skill should be able to sense and avoid, or a mental probe which could be blocked, given enough vigilance. But aliens wouldn’t understand this as it was meant to, or, understand it too well? Between the psionic output of Humans as hinted at by his bonding partner, and the rumored strength of the Beast of Seren, a clash could have disastrous consequences. “I can protect myself just fine.”
“Or are you actually looking forward to being protected by a male?” Sent the Mizol with a teasing undertone. “We shall refrain from interfering, then.”
“Can anyone here take the whole matter seriously?” That would certainly be a very weird preference to have. “With the major nomad raid looming over the city, bringing in additional Loroi may be even more of a security risk. My presence as a representative should be sufficient for the time being.”
“I will contact you once we’ve deemed it safe. Until then.” He marched off towards the vehicles, and Emberwing followed him. “There shouldn’t be any risks, you could trust me at least a little bit.”
“It does look like a dangerous operation, with quite the number of unverifiable premises.” Oh, right, among the Humans, males were the predominant war-fighters, so did they insult his honor by chance? “I shall defer to your judgment, and express my thanks to you for including me in the survey team.”
“Don’t read too much into it.” As if sensing something, he smiled and shook his head. “Here, strap yourself in, it’s the same mechanism as in the shuttle.”
The Captain drove the four-seater personally, and five other vehicles followed them. “This plateau is well-known for frequent storms, our approach will be regarded as just another dust plume.”
“What a bleak world.” There was simply nothing there, but crumbling rock.
“It is a testament to the abilities of the Soia that life managed to endure even after the cataclysm. The refugees were also lucky enough. If this world were to be less terraformed, they couldn’t have survived, and an already inhabited planet would be subjected to the usual orbital bombardment, possibly destroying the biosphere altogether.” Alexander Jardin did not sound discouraged. “Despite the desertification and the frequent climatic shifts, the descendants still persevere.”
“Probably thanks to that mysterious God they worship.” There were simply too many well-timed interventions for it being a mere coincidence. “I wonder what kind of artifact this so-called Deity actually is.”
“We’ll be there soon enough.” He grinned. “Hold tight!”
The speeder was quickly approaching the end of the plateau, then simply flew over the edge. No normal hovercar could compensate for such height differences, were those special ones? Most likely, since after a brief sensation of weightlessness, their fall began to slow down. Startled by the sharp whistling sound accompanying their flight, Emberwing looked around, only to notice that the Captain’s eyes were glowing with a psionic light. So the descent was done with telekinesis instead?
He noticed her gaze, and spoke in a slightly weird tone, probably due to the strain. “We are using our powers to make a shortcut.”
“We?” Emberwing looked around, and saw the other vehicles flying beside them. While such levels of strength were not entirely uncommon among Teidar, few had the fine control necessary as not to rip the hulls apart. But the Humans were doing this unamplified, had the endurance to uphold the effect for a few bimas and could even sustain a formation. “I am sufficiently impressed.”
“This wasn’t done to show off.” The hovercars were now low enough to use their engines, and they dispersed. “Although it might’ve been a welcome bonus.”
“Is this normal for you, or was the mission given especially capable personnel?” Asking that might be risky, but she chose to prioritize gauging their strength.
“Both.” His voice returned to normal. “This was rather fun, right?”
“You have really strange ideas regarding amusement.” Admittedly, this was somewhat fun. “That’s the kind of courage tests foolish diral youths may enjoy.”
“I’m glad that it was to your liking.” He steered the vehicle towards a small group of shrubs. “We’re here, the boat is awaiting us.”
They got out of the vehicle, and descended a small slope to arrive at the river. Zarjow, dressed in an unassuming gray robe, was already there, as well as a primitive boat made of wood and leather. He bowed slightly, “Yer ship be ready, sire.”
“What a magnificent cruise liner.” The boat swayed as they got inside, then stabilized on its own. “A submerged drone will propel us, but we should pretend to row, at least near the city.”
The river was gently meandering through a mostly flat, monotone landscape. Shallow, yet with clean water, the slow current produced faint gurgling sounds around their boat. A short time after, Emberwing spotted what should be a riverside settlement and spread out her senses. “I can’t locate anyone in that village. In my dream, it was possible to sense those elves, or are they not often living out there?”
“We can spot them just fine, there’s simply no one in the vicinity. The hamlets downstream are evacuated completely by now.” The Captain was trying to accustom himself to rowing with a paddle. “The elves, please call them Tastadi, don’t have any special standing, unless they happen to display supernatural powers. In such cases, the Temple usually takes them in.”
“You mean telepathic abilities? How widespread are those?” What were the Tastadi even supposed to be, a defective offshoot?
“Seldom enough, about one in twelve, and even fewer have useful levels of strength.” Zarjow began explaining. “Most awakened Tastadi usually have only an incomplete set of telepathic talents. However, there are also exceptionally rare cases where just a single ability is uniquely powerful. Those are the ones the Church covets. The elves we secured told us that such a blessed child was born in their village some time ago, and in recognition, they had their taxes waived for a whole year.”
“Do they have to awaken their telepathy forcefully like you do?” Among the Loroi, everyone had at least a basic set of abilities right from birth, the number of mutes due to birth defects was very low.
“No, it develops all on their own, typically during maturation. Since the parents often don’t have any talents or know-how, the children are taken to a Temple-run facility for training.” The Operative smiled faintly, “This world may be a great boon for our purposes.”
“Oh, and what are those goals?” This was likely not a careless remark, but she decided to ask anyway.
“To find better unlocking methods and have more of us awaken.” Zarjow looked at her with an indescribable gaze, “And to solve the grand puzzle the Soia had left behind.”
“We’ll have our fill of hints soon enough, Alexey.” Alexander Jardin handed him the paddle, and lowered another one into the water. “The city is just ahead.”
In the distance, Emberwing could see the mighty walls upon a lone hill. Both Humans were now earnestly trying to row the boat, and with the drone’s assistance, they safely reached the docks. The Captain climbed onto the pier, then stretched out a hand towards her. She waved it off, and disembarked by herself.
“My bad, oh proud warrior.” He secured the boat with a rope. “Put up your hood, the natives may stir up trouble.”
They walked towards the end of the docks, but were intercepted by an old, bearded Human. He raised up an arm to stop them, and began speaking Trade with a very strange accent. “Nevar seen yer face before. Berthing foh da boat is twoh coppers a week!”
“I want to sell it instead, dockmaster.” Alexander Jardin replied in a jovial tone, “Seven pieces of silver.”
“We ‘ready haf too many of dem. Four.” The official raised as many fingers.
“For the finest vessel this side of the Lake?” The Captain laughed, “Six.”
“Leaf de jokes to da merrymakers.” He put his hand into a pouch on his waist, and pulled out several coins. “Five. Take dat or scram.”
“Any bandit is less of a cutthroat that you are, but fine.” The Captain accepted the coins. “What by the Unholy Fire is going on? All the villages looked deserted, even the watchtowers are empty.”
“Which hole were you lot in?” The old Human eyed him suspiciously, but then smiled a partially toothless grin. “Oh, yer explorers? Guess it was a hole indeed. Anyway, da nomads are raiding earlier dis year, and in big numbers. Everyone fled behind de city walls.”
“Great, just my luck.” Alexander Jardin shook his head. “The inns will rip us off, then.”
The dockmaster harrumphed and trudged off, so they headed towards the city. The gates up ahead were guarded by two Mozerets, which radiated alertness, especially towards such a suspicious hooded figure as her. Making sure as not to stare, Emberwing inspected the four-legged aliens with great curiosity. Both had an impressive build, short bluish-gray fur, were clad in shiny breastplates and held a long lance. There were only a few travelers in front, and their turn to enter came soon enough. However, the left guard raised its right hand to stop them, and spoke in a deep, booming voice. “Halt! You may not pass without an inspection!”
Alexander Jardin simply walked up to the tall Mozeret warrior, and greeted it in a low voice. “Hail, Guardian Larraloj. I understand that the times are now tense, but my companions and I need to get inside without drawing too much attention.”
Emberwing sensed wariness and surprise at the Captain's statement. However, the Human waved his hand, lightly brushing aside the cloak, and then put his palm on the white pommel of the strange sword. The Mozeret's emotions seemed to tremble, replacing the cautiousness with respect. “Certainly, honored P…”
“Right now, I'm but an ordinary traveler you two wouldn’t even bat an eye at.” He smirked, and both Mozerets nodded in understanding, letting them in. Alexander made some ritual gesture as he passed by, eliciting a sense of reverence from the warriors, and whispered. “The Divine One protects.”
The townscape behind the walls was almost familiar. Narrow streets, the crowds of passersby dressed in colorful clothing, the chaos of swirling thought fragments, the plethora of strange odors, or all the noises of the busy inhabitants, somehow this felt exhilarating instead of oppressive. However, what was even more interesting, would be the matter with the guard. Telepathy wasn’t able to probe this deep without preparation, or work so fast. “How did you manage to trick the Mozeret? And where do you know its name from?”
“Micro-drones were listening to the conversations at the gates and all guard barracks for the past two days.” Zarjow followed them a step behind. “The Captain simply told that Mozeret something extraordinary, yet also entirely plausible, and I gave his reasoning a small nudge.”
“All that based upon a sword?” Or were the Humans truly adept at manipulating minds?
“You see, the Temple Guards are equipped with swords inlaid with white glass plates, and the high-ranking member's weapons are further decorated with white pommels.” Alexander Jardin was now hiding the weapon under his cloak. “So, why would such an illustrious figure trying to enter incognito, and with a suspicious hooded person in tow?”
Emberwing understood what he was saying. Some matters seemed to be universal. “It has to be something far above his rank?”
“Indeed. Once we piqued his curiosity, and opened a gap in his vigilance, making him believe our argument was but a trifle task.” The Captain led them through the crowds as if he was accustomed to this city. “People are far easier to manipulate if you place them in such a situation where they are bound to jump to the right conclusions all by themselves, like the dockmaster before.”
This mostly coincided with what she knew of Mizol techniques, except for a single issue. “But this sword was made in advance based on a dream, yet the guard recognized it?”
“Steele didn’t have an exact recollection of the dream where he forged it, only that the blade was of great importance. Dreams usually aren’t something exact.” But some were. “Still, we are running picture correlation scans to see if any of the local smithies match with the one William was in.”
“You are trying to evade my question.” The how was not as important as the why.
This elicited a chuckle from him. “Perhaps partially. Was it pure coincidence? A mere fragment of something else? Or a helpful hint? With the limited information we have, this question is impossible to answer.”
“I’ve also dreamt about that sword, there might be even more to it.” She had used it to slay that apparition. Monster? Dragon! “My dream may be important, we should talk about it later.”
“This could be interesting, I’m looking forward to it.” He turned into a back alley.
“By the way, where are we heading to?” This passage didn’t look particularly welcoming.
“To the pleasure quarter, it is what explorers would aim for anyway, and not asking questions seems to be common sense there.” The Captain rebuked a hawker who tried to approach them as they exited into another busy street. “Besides, that area is next to the slums, so a Loroi, even a warrior, wouldn’t stand out.”
“You spoke of making a temporary base?” They weaved through the crowds, and Emberwing made sure not to bump into someone out of habit. No, on second thought, this behavior would make her conspicuous, so she began to mimic the Humans.
“The city is chock-full with pilgrims, refugees and troops, but we’ve found a few expensive inns with room to spare.” He rubbed two fingers together. “With enough money, something successful explorers should have plenty of, it is possible to rent out an entire floor.”
“No, I mean what will we be doing?” As a guest on board, she went along with their whims, but this insistence on going into the city was somewhat weird.
“For starters, collecting information. Drone surveillance, no matter how great it might be, still loses out to telepathy. We might also be contacted by the Priesthood, if the rumors are true.” He shrugged, “Finally, this is the pleasure quarter, any vice can be satisfied here. Speaking of that, I can give you those silver coins.”
“This is not a vacation!” Admittedly, this was rather tempting, yet her sense of duty won over.
“Don’t be so serious, that was merely a joke. We’ll be using the money to buy information instead.” Zarjow made a ragged kid who attempted to intercept them trip and fall, then kicked him aside. “Damn pickpockets. Anyway, I’m not particularly keen on testing out just how good our inoculations are.”
As they proceeded deeper into the maze consisting of houses, stalls and winding streets, one by one, other Humans joined their group. Dressed in a variety of disguises, they appeared to be walking casually, yet Emberwing still noticed a semblance of a protective formation. Was it centered on her, or the Captain? Both? Alexander Jardin was meanwhile explaining the local history. “This city is one of the first permanent settlements, and the oldest still existing. Even when the climate fluctuations made the area less hospitable, it was never abandoned entirely. The reason is probably the Temple over there.”
The group entered a small plaza, which offered an unobstructed line of sight to the tall structure in the middle of the city. This building looked somewhat different to what she remembered from her dream, but it was still drawing her attention. That strange sensation she had after the landing returned as well, and Emberwing was now almost sure that it was a distant, vague murmur.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the Captain, who leaned in and whispered. “Try to act natural. We are being tailed. Rather amateurish, I’d say. By a single male Tastadi, no less.”
“Someone from the Temple?” Emberwing spread out her senses, trying to find anyone focusing their attention on them. “Or another pickpocket?”
“Not sneaky enough, although it might be somebody providing distraction.” There was a very faint glow in his eyes. “But in the case where he’s playing bait for Temple agents, we shall refrain from probing him. Let us disengage instead.”
Of course, being read should be avoided for the time being, so Emberwing immediately retracted her detection attempts. Still, something brushed one of her tendrils of thought, a vaguely familiar signature she wasn’t able to identify, and the sensation was gone before any attempt to probe further could be made.
Alexander Jardin was handed a spear by a subordinate, then headed towards the airlock. After they gathered inside, he pressed on the controls, and with a popping sound, the shuttle doors opened, letting in the planet’s atmosphere. It was somewhat thin, dry, and with a weak, unfamiliar, slightly spicy scent. At least the air wasn’t hot, still carrying the early morning’s coolness.
“I’ll go first.” The Captain stepped out, holding that lance high. Suddenly, with a flick of his wrist, a blue flag expanded from the pole, and he rammed it into the ground. “I claim this system in the name of the Terran Empire!”
Emberwing followed him next. The rocky plateau they landed on was desolate, colored in a uniform dusty-brown hue, and almost devoid of any vegetation. “A rather rustic domain.”
“This was just something I’ve always wanted to do.” He turned around, and spread out his arms. “With some terraforming, this wasteland may become the garden world the Soia intended.”
“That can be staved off until later. We have an important task before us, and a severe shortage of time.” She shook her head, this was not a leisure trip!
“No problem, we’ll take the express route.” He pointed towards a camp to their right. Two shuttles stood there, and a number of Humans were operating various pieces of equipment. Judging from the many antennas and sensors, this was probably a comm station. There were also numerous weird, open hovercars standing in rows, nothing more than a framework, but with a weapon mounted on top. “With one of those speeders, we’ll drive to the river, where Zarjow awaits us with a boat. Others will enter by different means.”
The second shuttle made a low pass to land a short distance away. Stirred up by the engines, a gust swept by, intensifying the alien odors. Yet, there was something else in the air as well. Not exactly a tingling sensation or an audible whisper, the desert wind carried an ever so faint foreboding of something she couldn’t even assign a concept to. Were her senses playing a trick on her?
Emberwing pulled out a handheld scanner, and ran a quick test. But the results regarding the atmospheric composition matched what the Humans submitted. There were also no unknown patterns in the air vibrations, no unusual residue of the engines, or any radiation sources. Could those emanations be of psionic nature? Emberwing looked at the Captain, who was staring at her with slight amusement. “There is nothing dangerous here, the unusual smell you’re likely noticing is coming from the dust’s unique composition.”
“I was checking it as per standard protocol.” She decided not to mention her theory. “Midnight, Fireblade, can you sense something that’s out of order?”
“Nothing in particular, there’s also no one else we can detect.” The two Loroi disembarked from the shuttle and headed over. The Mizol addressed the Human, “Captain Alexander Jardin, I hope that we can join up with Torret Emberwing once a base of operations is secured.”
“Yes, this can be arranged for after we’ve ascertained the Temple’s ability to locate us, and gauged their reaction towards Loroi.” Alexander Jardin put a hand on the sword’s handle. “In the meantime, I can protect her, so your Teidar guard doesn’t need to worry.”
As expected, this statement caused Fireblade to frown, although she refrained from saying anything out loud. “A male wants to match my powers!? Should I probe his mettle?”
“Please don’t provoke anyone, we have no idea whether they can hold back.” She had heard about certain Teidar traditions of testing others. A light push someone of sufficient skill should be able to sense and avoid, or a mental probe which could be blocked, given enough vigilance. But aliens wouldn’t understand this as it was meant to, or, understand it too well? Between the psionic output of Humans as hinted at by his bonding partner, and the rumored strength of the Beast of Seren, a clash could have disastrous consequences. “I can protect myself just fine.”
“Or are you actually looking forward to being protected by a male?” Sent the Mizol with a teasing undertone. “We shall refrain from interfering, then.”
“Can anyone here take the whole matter seriously?” That would certainly be a very weird preference to have. “With the major nomad raid looming over the city, bringing in additional Loroi may be even more of a security risk. My presence as a representative should be sufficient for the time being.”
“I will contact you once we’ve deemed it safe. Until then.” He marched off towards the vehicles, and Emberwing followed him. “There shouldn’t be any risks, you could trust me at least a little bit.”
“It does look like a dangerous operation, with quite the number of unverifiable premises.” Oh, right, among the Humans, males were the predominant war-fighters, so did they insult his honor by chance? “I shall defer to your judgment, and express my thanks to you for including me in the survey team.”
“Don’t read too much into it.” As if sensing something, he smiled and shook his head. “Here, strap yourself in, it’s the same mechanism as in the shuttle.”
The Captain drove the four-seater personally, and five other vehicles followed them. “This plateau is well-known for frequent storms, our approach will be regarded as just another dust plume.”
“What a bleak world.” There was simply nothing there, but crumbling rock.
“It is a testament to the abilities of the Soia that life managed to endure even after the cataclysm. The refugees were also lucky enough. If this world were to be less terraformed, they couldn’t have survived, and an already inhabited planet would be subjected to the usual orbital bombardment, possibly destroying the biosphere altogether.” Alexander Jardin did not sound discouraged. “Despite the desertification and the frequent climatic shifts, the descendants still persevere.”
“Probably thanks to that mysterious God they worship.” There were simply too many well-timed interventions for it being a mere coincidence. “I wonder what kind of artifact this so-called Deity actually is.”
“We’ll be there soon enough.” He grinned. “Hold tight!”
The speeder was quickly approaching the end of the plateau, then simply flew over the edge. No normal hovercar could compensate for such height differences, were those special ones? Most likely, since after a brief sensation of weightlessness, their fall began to slow down. Startled by the sharp whistling sound accompanying their flight, Emberwing looked around, only to notice that the Captain’s eyes were glowing with a psionic light. So the descent was done with telekinesis instead?
He noticed her gaze, and spoke in a slightly weird tone, probably due to the strain. “We are using our powers to make a shortcut.”
“We?” Emberwing looked around, and saw the other vehicles flying beside them. While such levels of strength were not entirely uncommon among Teidar, few had the fine control necessary as not to rip the hulls apart. But the Humans were doing this unamplified, had the endurance to uphold the effect for a few bimas and could even sustain a formation. “I am sufficiently impressed.”
“This wasn’t done to show off.” The hovercars were now low enough to use their engines, and they dispersed. “Although it might’ve been a welcome bonus.”
“Is this normal for you, or was the mission given especially capable personnel?” Asking that might be risky, but she chose to prioritize gauging their strength.
“Both.” His voice returned to normal. “This was rather fun, right?”
“You have really strange ideas regarding amusement.” Admittedly, this was somewhat fun. “That’s the kind of courage tests foolish diral youths may enjoy.”
“I’m glad that it was to your liking.” He steered the vehicle towards a small group of shrubs. “We’re here, the boat is awaiting us.”
They got out of the vehicle, and descended a small slope to arrive at the river. Zarjow, dressed in an unassuming gray robe, was already there, as well as a primitive boat made of wood and leather. He bowed slightly, “Yer ship be ready, sire.”
“What a magnificent cruise liner.” The boat swayed as they got inside, then stabilized on its own. “A submerged drone will propel us, but we should pretend to row, at least near the city.”
The river was gently meandering through a mostly flat, monotone landscape. Shallow, yet with clean water, the slow current produced faint gurgling sounds around their boat. A short time after, Emberwing spotted what should be a riverside settlement and spread out her senses. “I can’t locate anyone in that village. In my dream, it was possible to sense those elves, or are they not often living out there?”
“We can spot them just fine, there’s simply no one in the vicinity. The hamlets downstream are evacuated completely by now.” The Captain was trying to accustom himself to rowing with a paddle. “The elves, please call them Tastadi, don’t have any special standing, unless they happen to display supernatural powers. In such cases, the Temple usually takes them in.”
“You mean telepathic abilities? How widespread are those?” What were the Tastadi even supposed to be, a defective offshoot?
“Seldom enough, about one in twelve, and even fewer have useful levels of strength.” Zarjow began explaining. “Most awakened Tastadi usually have only an incomplete set of telepathic talents. However, there are also exceptionally rare cases where just a single ability is uniquely powerful. Those are the ones the Church covets. The elves we secured told us that such a blessed child was born in their village some time ago, and in recognition, they had their taxes waived for a whole year.”
“Do they have to awaken their telepathy forcefully like you do?” Among the Loroi, everyone had at least a basic set of abilities right from birth, the number of mutes due to birth defects was very low.
“No, it develops all on their own, typically during maturation. Since the parents often don’t have any talents or know-how, the children are taken to a Temple-run facility for training.” The Operative smiled faintly, “This world may be a great boon for our purposes.”
“Oh, and what are those goals?” This was likely not a careless remark, but she decided to ask anyway.
“To find better unlocking methods and have more of us awaken.” Zarjow looked at her with an indescribable gaze, “And to solve the grand puzzle the Soia had left behind.”
“We’ll have our fill of hints soon enough, Alexey.” Alexander Jardin handed him the paddle, and lowered another one into the water. “The city is just ahead.”
In the distance, Emberwing could see the mighty walls upon a lone hill. Both Humans were now earnestly trying to row the boat, and with the drone’s assistance, they safely reached the docks. The Captain climbed onto the pier, then stretched out a hand towards her. She waved it off, and disembarked by herself.
“My bad, oh proud warrior.” He secured the boat with a rope. “Put up your hood, the natives may stir up trouble.”
They walked towards the end of the docks, but were intercepted by an old, bearded Human. He raised up an arm to stop them, and began speaking Trade with a very strange accent. “Nevar seen yer face before. Berthing foh da boat is twoh coppers a week!”
“I want to sell it instead, dockmaster.” Alexander Jardin replied in a jovial tone, “Seven pieces of silver.”
“We ‘ready haf too many of dem. Four.” The official raised as many fingers.
“For the finest vessel this side of the Lake?” The Captain laughed, “Six.”
“Leaf de jokes to da merrymakers.” He put his hand into a pouch on his waist, and pulled out several coins. “Five. Take dat or scram.”
“Any bandit is less of a cutthroat that you are, but fine.” The Captain accepted the coins. “What by the Unholy Fire is going on? All the villages looked deserted, even the watchtowers are empty.”
“Which hole were you lot in?” The old Human eyed him suspiciously, but then smiled a partially toothless grin. “Oh, yer explorers? Guess it was a hole indeed. Anyway, da nomads are raiding earlier dis year, and in big numbers. Everyone fled behind de city walls.”
“Great, just my luck.” Alexander Jardin shook his head. “The inns will rip us off, then.”
The dockmaster harrumphed and trudged off, so they headed towards the city. The gates up ahead were guarded by two Mozerets, which radiated alertness, especially towards such a suspicious hooded figure as her. Making sure as not to stare, Emberwing inspected the four-legged aliens with great curiosity. Both had an impressive build, short bluish-gray fur, were clad in shiny breastplates and held a long lance. There were only a few travelers in front, and their turn to enter came soon enough. However, the left guard raised its right hand to stop them, and spoke in a deep, booming voice. “Halt! You may not pass without an inspection!”
Alexander Jardin simply walked up to the tall Mozeret warrior, and greeted it in a low voice. “Hail, Guardian Larraloj. I understand that the times are now tense, but my companions and I need to get inside without drawing too much attention.”
Emberwing sensed wariness and surprise at the Captain's statement. However, the Human waved his hand, lightly brushing aside the cloak, and then put his palm on the white pommel of the strange sword. The Mozeret's emotions seemed to tremble, replacing the cautiousness with respect. “Certainly, honored P…”
“Right now, I'm but an ordinary traveler you two wouldn’t even bat an eye at.” He smirked, and both Mozerets nodded in understanding, letting them in. Alexander made some ritual gesture as he passed by, eliciting a sense of reverence from the warriors, and whispered. “The Divine One protects.”
The townscape behind the walls was almost familiar. Narrow streets, the crowds of passersby dressed in colorful clothing, the chaos of swirling thought fragments, the plethora of strange odors, or all the noises of the busy inhabitants, somehow this felt exhilarating instead of oppressive. However, what was even more interesting, would be the matter with the guard. Telepathy wasn’t able to probe this deep without preparation, or work so fast. “How did you manage to trick the Mozeret? And where do you know its name from?”
“Micro-drones were listening to the conversations at the gates and all guard barracks for the past two days.” Zarjow followed them a step behind. “The Captain simply told that Mozeret something extraordinary, yet also entirely plausible, and I gave his reasoning a small nudge.”
“All that based upon a sword?” Or were the Humans truly adept at manipulating minds?
“You see, the Temple Guards are equipped with swords inlaid with white glass plates, and the high-ranking member's weapons are further decorated with white pommels.” Alexander Jardin was now hiding the weapon under his cloak. “So, why would such an illustrious figure trying to enter incognito, and with a suspicious hooded person in tow?”
Emberwing understood what he was saying. Some matters seemed to be universal. “It has to be something far above his rank?”
“Indeed. Once we piqued his curiosity, and opened a gap in his vigilance, making him believe our argument was but a trifle task.” The Captain led them through the crowds as if he was accustomed to this city. “People are far easier to manipulate if you place them in such a situation where they are bound to jump to the right conclusions all by themselves, like the dockmaster before.”
This mostly coincided with what she knew of Mizol techniques, except for a single issue. “But this sword was made in advance based on a dream, yet the guard recognized it?”
“Steele didn’t have an exact recollection of the dream where he forged it, only that the blade was of great importance. Dreams usually aren’t something exact.” But some were. “Still, we are running picture correlation scans to see if any of the local smithies match with the one William was in.”
“You are trying to evade my question.” The how was not as important as the why.
This elicited a chuckle from him. “Perhaps partially. Was it pure coincidence? A mere fragment of something else? Or a helpful hint? With the limited information we have, this question is impossible to answer.”
“I’ve also dreamt about that sword, there might be even more to it.” She had used it to slay that apparition. Monster? Dragon! “My dream may be important, we should talk about it later.”
“This could be interesting, I’m looking forward to it.” He turned into a back alley.
“By the way, where are we heading to?” This passage didn’t look particularly welcoming.
“To the pleasure quarter, it is what explorers would aim for anyway, and not asking questions seems to be common sense there.” The Captain rebuked a hawker who tried to approach them as they exited into another busy street. “Besides, that area is next to the slums, so a Loroi, even a warrior, wouldn’t stand out.”
“You spoke of making a temporary base?” They weaved through the crowds, and Emberwing made sure not to bump into someone out of habit. No, on second thought, this behavior would make her conspicuous, so she began to mimic the Humans.
“The city is chock-full with pilgrims, refugees and troops, but we’ve found a few expensive inns with room to spare.” He rubbed two fingers together. “With enough money, something successful explorers should have plenty of, it is possible to rent out an entire floor.”
“No, I mean what will we be doing?” As a guest on board, she went along with their whims, but this insistence on going into the city was somewhat weird.
“For starters, collecting information. Drone surveillance, no matter how great it might be, still loses out to telepathy. We might also be contacted by the Priesthood, if the rumors are true.” He shrugged, “Finally, this is the pleasure quarter, any vice can be satisfied here. Speaking of that, I can give you those silver coins.”
“This is not a vacation!” Admittedly, this was rather tempting, yet her sense of duty won over.
“Don’t be so serious, that was merely a joke. We’ll be using the money to buy information instead.” Zarjow made a ragged kid who attempted to intercept them trip and fall, then kicked him aside. “Damn pickpockets. Anyway, I’m not particularly keen on testing out just how good our inoculations are.”
As they proceeded deeper into the maze consisting of houses, stalls and winding streets, one by one, other Humans joined their group. Dressed in a variety of disguises, they appeared to be walking casually, yet Emberwing still noticed a semblance of a protective formation. Was it centered on her, or the Captain? Both? Alexander Jardin was meanwhile explaining the local history. “This city is one of the first permanent settlements, and the oldest still existing. Even when the climate fluctuations made the area less hospitable, it was never abandoned entirely. The reason is probably the Temple over there.”
The group entered a small plaza, which offered an unobstructed line of sight to the tall structure in the middle of the city. This building looked somewhat different to what she remembered from her dream, but it was still drawing her attention. That strange sensation she had after the landing returned as well, and Emberwing was now almost sure that it was a distant, vague murmur.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the Captain, who leaned in and whispered. “Try to act natural. We are being tailed. Rather amateurish, I’d say. By a single male Tastadi, no less.”
“Someone from the Temple?” Emberwing spread out her senses, trying to find anyone focusing their attention on them. “Or another pickpocket?”
“Not sneaky enough, although it might be somebody providing distraction.” There was a very faint glow in his eyes. “But in the case where he’s playing bait for Temple agents, we shall refrain from probing him. Let us disengage instead.”
Of course, being read should be avoided for the time being, so Emberwing immediately retracted her detection attempts. Still, something brushed one of her tendrils of thought, a vaguely familiar signature she wasn’t able to identify, and the sensation was gone before any attempt to probe further could be made.
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself
Re: [Fan Fiction] Rellet Reimolad Roror (A sword that wields itself) Story Thread
Intermission W: By mere chance
The bard Athedil was aimlessly strolling through the busy streets of the City of Pillars. Normally, this would be the time of the Festival, the main money-making opportunity for anyone in his profession. Peasants delivering their harvest before the rainy season, pilgrims coming for the grand procession, explorers returning with loot, merchants aiming to buy artifacts, the city should be brimming with activity. Alcohol and money had to flow through the taverns like a mighty river and bards would have their share of both, with some fame on top.
Unfortunately, everything was spoiled by the accursed nomads. They should’ve been confined in the wastelands by the summer heat, and then, by the storms of the rainy season, only being able to strike when the weather allowed for it in a month or two. Yet, the Temple warned about an unusually early and likely very powerful raid, so many villagers had fled behind the city walls. Reinforcements gathered as well, most festivities were called off, and on top of it all, the refugees managed to infect the inhabitants with a sense of worry. In this tense situation, few patrons were willing to tip generously. His income withered as if hit by the scorching desert winds. Worse, even his girl broke up with him all of a sudden. For that arrogant, cunning, haughty bitch, a lowly bard was apparently no longer pleasing, and this had dealt a severe blow to his already dwindling inspiration. Perhaps it was time to cut losses, and leave the city for good.
Yet, traveling during the upcoming rainy season would be foolish, so he simply roved about to kill time. Among the masses, a group of three somehow caught his eye. An armored warrior walking boldly as if he owned the place, beside him, a hooded figure, and an unassuming, robed guy following them a step behind. The companion was probably female, he, being an expert in women, was sure of this. The leader didn’t look like a common soldier or guard, so perhaps an officer, a mercenary, or most probably, an explorer heading for the pleasure quarter? One after the other, new members joined up with the three and integrated into a loose formation centered on the warrior. Judging by how well-coordinated they moved through the crowds, all of them must’ve worked with that leader for a long time. This level of wordless communication was normally reserved for tight-knit mercenary bands, or experienced explorers, yet neither would march in such a formation reminiscent of the military. A foreign noble with his bodyguards going incognito to the pleasure quarter? A common enough story, however, he was far too knowledgeable about the streets, taking ingenious shortcuts like a native.
A pickpocket thought them to be good pickings, and tried to have a go at their purses, but the robed man wasn’t having any of that. With a flowing motion, he stepped aside to evade the grubby hand, tripped the victim, then, with a hidden dagger... No, he merely kicked the urchin away. This flawlessly executed maneuver had simply caused a rather unpleasant memory to resurface. He had seen such levels of skill only once before, a merchant was stealthily killed in the street, without anyone nearby be none the wiser. By mere chance, he managed to catch a glimpse of the act from afar, and being curious enough to investigate the matter, stumbled upon a juicy rumor that the dead guy was a member of a secret cult. Worse, the murderer was likely a Temple agent hunting for apostates, since his snooping immediately led to an inordinate amount of trouble, forcing him to flee from that eastern city. Would it be wise to get entangled into something problematic yet again? Most definitely, because his bardic instincts screamed out that whatever those three were up to, it had the makings of a great story. Any dangers along the way were merely an occupational hazard, so he followed them with utmost caution.
Having observed the group for a while, they certainly gave off a sense of incongruity. Someone like a knight, well-acquainted with the city, having both a retinue and an assassin around him? Of course, there was only one possible explanation. The Paladins of the Temple Guard did have their private squads. An illustrious, yet secretive order, they answered only to the High Priest and administered his will throughout the City of Pillars. Who was the woman accompanying him? Or, most likely, the other way around? He seemed to talk to her all the way, as if showing her around and answering questions.
The group entered a small plaza, where the knight guy pointed to the Temple in the distance, then leaned in to whisper something to the woman. Immediately, an intangible wave touched his spirit, only to retreat in an instant. Was she actually a Priestess? That probing also left a strange sense of familiarity, confusing him for a moment. He had been apparently spotted as well, since the group used the opportunity to disappear. A pity, although there was still a chance for his luck to facilitate a second encounter. After all, leaving any mystery unresolved would be an utter disgrace to bardendom and his own boredom.
The bard Athedil was aimlessly strolling through the busy streets of the City of Pillars. Normally, this would be the time of the Festival, the main money-making opportunity for anyone in his profession. Peasants delivering their harvest before the rainy season, pilgrims coming for the grand procession, explorers returning with loot, merchants aiming to buy artifacts, the city should be brimming with activity. Alcohol and money had to flow through the taverns like a mighty river and bards would have their share of both, with some fame on top.
Unfortunately, everything was spoiled by the accursed nomads. They should’ve been confined in the wastelands by the summer heat, and then, by the storms of the rainy season, only being able to strike when the weather allowed for it in a month or two. Yet, the Temple warned about an unusually early and likely very powerful raid, so many villagers had fled behind the city walls. Reinforcements gathered as well, most festivities were called off, and on top of it all, the refugees managed to infect the inhabitants with a sense of worry. In this tense situation, few patrons were willing to tip generously. His income withered as if hit by the scorching desert winds. Worse, even his girl broke up with him all of a sudden. For that arrogant, cunning, haughty bitch, a lowly bard was apparently no longer pleasing, and this had dealt a severe blow to his already dwindling inspiration. Perhaps it was time to cut losses, and leave the city for good.
Yet, traveling during the upcoming rainy season would be foolish, so he simply roved about to kill time. Among the masses, a group of three somehow caught his eye. An armored warrior walking boldly as if he owned the place, beside him, a hooded figure, and an unassuming, robed guy following them a step behind. The companion was probably female, he, being an expert in women, was sure of this. The leader didn’t look like a common soldier or guard, so perhaps an officer, a mercenary, or most probably, an explorer heading for the pleasure quarter? One after the other, new members joined up with the three and integrated into a loose formation centered on the warrior. Judging by how well-coordinated they moved through the crowds, all of them must’ve worked with that leader for a long time. This level of wordless communication was normally reserved for tight-knit mercenary bands, or experienced explorers, yet neither would march in such a formation reminiscent of the military. A foreign noble with his bodyguards going incognito to the pleasure quarter? A common enough story, however, he was far too knowledgeable about the streets, taking ingenious shortcuts like a native.
A pickpocket thought them to be good pickings, and tried to have a go at their purses, but the robed man wasn’t having any of that. With a flowing motion, he stepped aside to evade the grubby hand, tripped the victim, then, with a hidden dagger... No, he merely kicked the urchin away. This flawlessly executed maneuver had simply caused a rather unpleasant memory to resurface. He had seen such levels of skill only once before, a merchant was stealthily killed in the street, without anyone nearby be none the wiser. By mere chance, he managed to catch a glimpse of the act from afar, and being curious enough to investigate the matter, stumbled upon a juicy rumor that the dead guy was a member of a secret cult. Worse, the murderer was likely a Temple agent hunting for apostates, since his snooping immediately led to an inordinate amount of trouble, forcing him to flee from that eastern city. Would it be wise to get entangled into something problematic yet again? Most definitely, because his bardic instincts screamed out that whatever those three were up to, it had the makings of a great story. Any dangers along the way were merely an occupational hazard, so he followed them with utmost caution.
Having observed the group for a while, they certainly gave off a sense of incongruity. Someone like a knight, well-acquainted with the city, having both a retinue and an assassin around him? Of course, there was only one possible explanation. The Paladins of the Temple Guard did have their private squads. An illustrious, yet secretive order, they answered only to the High Priest and administered his will throughout the City of Pillars. Who was the woman accompanying him? Or, most likely, the other way around? He seemed to talk to her all the way, as if showing her around and answering questions.
The group entered a small plaza, where the knight guy pointed to the Temple in the distance, then leaned in to whisper something to the woman. Immediately, an intangible wave touched his spirit, only to retreat in an instant. Was she actually a Priestess? That probing also left a strange sense of familiarity, confusing him for a moment. He had been apparently spotted as well, since the group used the opportunity to disappear. A pity, although there was still a chance for his luck to facilitate a second encounter. After all, leaving any mystery unresolved would be an utter disgrace to bardendom and his own boredom.
My fanfic: A sword that wields itself