Chapter 10: A Trip to Disith
by Ivy Rangee (who does not own these characters)
The Ivy Keys
On the Frontier of Anatoray
20 Dekembris 3037
Fourth Day of Saturnalia
Feast of Opalia in Honor of Lady Ops, Goddess of Abundance
0600 Hours
Alex Row's Quarters
"Alex, do not do this. You could be lost or killed or shot as a spy or even a traitor," pleaded Sophia, her back to him as she stood at the large circular window of his quarters.
Alex ignored her; he had no time for her litany of worries. Instead, he worked diligently but unsuccessfully, attempting to assemble the pieces of a Disith officer's bridge uniform. He'd managed the pants and shoes, but the jacket lay in pieces on his desk. Oddly, the Disith did not sew insignias, stripes or decorative bits onto their jackets. Instead, they fastened them on using tiny, smooth buttons that defied Alex' fingers. Then too, no matter how many times he tried, one or two pieces always remained. It reminded him of the time he and his sister, Hestia, had taken apart a vanship to see how it worked only to find that, no matter how many times they reassembled it, several mystery parts always tarried on the workbench.
"Sophia, is there an instruction manual that comes with this?"
"Why are you going with Nikator instead of your smuggling crew?" asked Sophia, continuing her torrent of objections.
"I wish to extract information from Apraxin's dear old auntie, not scare her to death. Besides, Nikator would not give me the coordinates; you know as well as I, that this is a delicate operation."
"If you insist on going, at least let me accompany you," said Sophia, turning to him, her fists clinched at her side.
"No, you must take command of the Silvana; complete the prime minister's mission and meet me here tomorrow at zero three hundred." Alex unbuttoned the pieces of the Disith jacket to try again.
"But you are the only member of the crew who speaks the patios of the desert clans." Sophia frowned, crossing to his desk and examining the jacket. "I think these stripes attach to the collar."
"Pascal is fluent, and I have complete trust in your abilities." With a low growl, Alex attempted to attach the thick piece of striped wool.
"Let me try…you're going to destroy it. You know, I had some difficulty procuring a uniform to fit you, and I promised its owner I'd return it in good condition," replied Sophia, taking the coat and collar away from Alex.
"How did you get it?" Alex asked, watching her, as she attached the collar.
"I have my ways."
"What ways, Sophia?"
"You've never left me in charge before."
"How can you say that? I have done so, many times."
"Yes, well, that was only for a few hours, while you partied with those reprobates you call friends. It hardly prepares me for what you are asking."
"I'll not listen while you disparage my companions."
"Excuse me, but you must admit they are…unusual," she complained, fitting a piece of material with three stripes of braided ribbon sewn into it around the left sleeve.
"Sadly, you've led a very sheltered life, Sophia," said Alex, sitting down at his desk, and resting his feet on its surface. He wore the curly-toed shoes of a Disith soldier. "While you frolicked in a luxurious palace surrounded by first water, those reprobates kept the Guild at bay, giving aid to the people of Anatoray and Disith."
"You exaggerate."
"Me, exaggerate?" said Alex, crossing his arms defiantly. "I am the soul of propriety."
"The soul of propriety – I'll have to remember that next time I find myself kneeling before my father begging for your life," replied Sophia, laughing with genuine glee. "Please Alex, I'm trying to stay angry; don't make me laugh."
"Sophia, a word of caution, you must not write off my friends; seek them out when I'm gone. They'll protect you; promise me you will do as I ask," said Alex, urgency clear in his voice.
"I…I promise; but what are you talking about?" asked Sophia, dropping her work. "Are you deserting us?"
"Do not be an idiot; the Silvana is my home," declared Alex, closing his eyes and leaning back as he stretched his arms over his head. He'd not gotten nearly enough sleep, but then he had grown used to that. "Have I never left you in charge for twenty-four hours before?"
"You know very well you have not!"
"Do I?" Alex could not suppress a yawn, though he tried, for he knew how Sophia would take it.
"Am I boring you, Captain?"
"A bit… but I'm sure the story of how you procured that uniform is very entertaining. Please enlighten me, just in case disciplinary action is required."
"Disciplinary action? You are such a poser," growled Sophia, throwing the jacket down.
"Be assured, Vice Captain," said Alex, with utter sincerity. "I would never leave the Silvana in the hands of someone I didn't trust completely."
"If it meant finding Euris, I believe you would do anything," said Sophia. But he could tell he'd mollified her for she resumed her work on that puzzle called a jacket.
"You denigrate yourself and me," said Alex, making hurt evident in his voice, as he brought his feet to the floor, and leaned forward to evaluate Sophia's progress. He'd had high hopes when she started, but now the prognosis looked grim.
"You must allow me to accompany you," insisted Sophia.
"It is out of the question. The future empress of Anatoray cannot and will not undertake a mission in enemy territory," pronounced Alex, his authority absolute.
"But what if the Silvana is attacked?" Sophia held up the jacket, eyeing it critically. Unfortunately, two pieces of straight black braid remained. With a smirk, Alex waved them at her.
"You have taken command of the bridge and lead the crew to victory in several battles."
"But you were always aboard to take over if things went bad; I do not have your tactical abilities. What if the Guild should attack?" asked Sophia, grabbing the braid with a frown.
"Why would they attack? Besides, you know what to do if that happens."
"Yes, we wait it out, but…" said Sophia, searching the jacket for the placement of the braid.
"There is absolutely no way the Guild can find us. And you possess fine tactical skills."
"But what if they come upon us?" Sophia gave a slightly demented smile as she laid the jacket on his desk and pressed the braid into two channels sewn into the material for that express purpose.
"They will be cautious since we have joined the emperor's fleet, and for some reason, at least for now, they do not wish to offend him. Then, too, we carry nothing of interest to them."
"You are not taking Yukino?"
"No, Miyako needs her. I'm considering sending them to Jiguzagu Estate."
"Who will accompany you?" she asked, holding up the jacket to examine it one more time.
"No one," said Alex, pulling two buttons-like pins from his pocket. They carried the seven arrows of the Disith insignia. "Where do you suppose these go?"
"Alex, you must take someone trusted with you. What if…" said Sophia, as she took the two metal pins from him.
"Do you always have to remind me of my infirmities? Besides Lupan and Nikator will be around."
"That does not comfort me. I don't trust either of them. Please reconsider," insisted Sophia, taking the butterfly clutch from a long prong attached to one of the pins. She pushed the pin-like prong through the jacket's collar and fastened it.
"This is the closest we've come to locating Euris. You know I must go. I have complete confidence in you."
"I wish I felt the same."
"The mission is routine. You've led them before."
"But…"
"Sophia, the time fast approaches when you will be called to lead Anatoray. When that happens, I'll be hard put to replace you; the crew trusts you in a way they can never trust me. You have come a long way from that spoiled, weak, overdressed royal, who boarded this ship three years ago."
"Why do you keep saying that? I was not weak– a bit pampered, perhaps."
"Yes, weak; but it only took one month of hard labor on the Silvana to whip you into shape."
"Heartless slave driver that you are!" Sophia held up the jacket. "Have you anything else in your pockets?"
"I don't think so," said Alex, pulling them inside out.
"Good! Time to try it on." She held the jacket up, and he slipped his arms into the sleeves.
"You have turned out quite well," said Alex, buttoning up the mysterious jacket only to find a left over button hole. How in Hades did anyone wear these bloody things?
"Thank you, Alex. I love the Silvana and its crew."
"It has been an honor to serve with you, Sophia," said Alex, tearing the buttons open. At this rate he'd never get to Disith.
"I could not have asked for a better mentor," she replied, her face reddening.
"Nor I a better student; if I do not return follow these instructions," said Alex, taking an envelope from his desk and handing it to her.
"Not return? But you just said…"
"It is a remote possibility for which we must be prepared. Now help me with this jacket. It's got more buttons than a unitary suit."
"Let me button it for you," sighed Sophia, pushing his hands away, making a valiant attempt, but this time there remained two empty buttonholes.
"And where is Yukino? I must speak with her before I leave."
"I'm here, Alexander," said Yukino, entering through the connecting door.
"What are you wearing?" asked Alex.
"A Disith uniform, Lupan lent it to me. Let me button that for you; Lupan showed me the trick of it."
"Lupan helped you dress?"
"He did, and I must say he's remarkably adept; now watch and learn. It fastens in a diamond shape with this flap tucked under the other," said Yukino, making short work of it.
"Why are you wearing a Disith uniform?" demanded Alex.
"I'm going with you."
"No, you are not!"
"This is not up for debate."
"But Miyako…"
"Lady Hippolyte and Antiope will pick her up at Tuktum Basin, when the Silvana rendezvous with the Alwet."
"And how was that arranged?" asked Alex, looking suspiciously from Sophia to Yukino.
"I asked Sophia to send a vanship to Kuramasu Island, after you told us your plans," explained Yukino.
"Sophia?"
"Sorry, Captain," said Sophia, but Alex could tell she wasn't. He should have known their friendship bode ill.
"During wartime any and all outside communications must be approved by the commanding officer," stated Alex, walking to Sophia. "When I get back, Vice Captain, I shall launch an investigation into this unpardonable act of insubordination."
"Yes, Captain, off course, you will." Sophia smiled and shook her head.
"When did you plan on telling me about this? - pretending to be unsure of yourself! You had me fooled, Sophia."
"Well, I hoped you'd pick me to accompany you instead of Yukino so I thought I'd put up a good show."
"Neither one of you are going!"
"Alexander…" cooed Yukino, petting his shoulder.
"Don't call me that, Yukino," said Alex, pushing her hand away. "You know, I think you're enamored of Lupan."
"Jealous?"
"Maybe… a little."
"You don't know how happy that makes me."
"I know what you two are thinking," said Alex.
"What are we thinking?" asked the two in unison.
"What if poor, crazy Alex starts having flashbacks, or worse a complete break and his condition becomes common knowledge to the enemy."
"You're correct," said Sophia.
"So…you do think I'm crazy."
"Neither one of us is going to answer that. However, one of us is going with you. Choose!" ordered Yukino.
"This is an incredible breach of conduct," frowned Alex, walking away to the circular window.
"You know, Yukino, I do believe he's pouting," commented Sophia.
"Ah, we must be on guard; that is when he's at his most dangerous," chuckled Yukino.
"What is it that bothers you, Captain?" asked the vice captain, with a wink to her co-conspirator.
"The two of you have conspired against me."
"Alexander, stop this!" sighed Yukino, joining him at the window. "I owe you a great debt. Let me help you. You do not know what you will find in Disith."
"Sophia, will you see what's keeping the Disith?" ordered Alex, taking Yukino's hand.
"Of course, Captain."
"Yukino," pleaded Alex when they were alone. "You are my oldest friend and the mother of my child; there is no debt."
"You have been one of the few constants in my life, Alexander. I cannot bear to lose you; do not ask me to abandon you. You remained loyal to me even when I treated you horribly; let me redeem myself."
"Redeem yourself? For what?"
"Oh please, Alexander, I hid your daughter's birth from you for three years; I've cheated on you; I ran away to the Enclave…Shall I continue?"
"You exaggerate; it was not your fault you were sold into concubinage. And in that situation keeping the identity of Miyako's father under wraps was the appropriate action."
"You always play down my faults. Let me do this for you."
"And what of Miyako? You are her mother; she needs you more than I do. I cannot let you accompany me."
"Miyako will be safe with your great-grandmother. Alexander, we are family; I could not live with myself if something happened to you…I…love you."
"I never thought I'd hear those words from you."
"I've said them before."
"Maybe, but this is the first time I've believed you." Alex looked into her remarkable dark eyes. He could see she would not be deterred, and so he gave in, pulling her into an intense embrace. "Thank you, Yukino."
"Alexander…" she whispered, pulling his head down and kissing him.
"Captain," said Sophia, returning, just as the two separated. "We received the signal. The Disith ship is ready to launch."
"Thank you, Sophia. Is the transport ready?"
"It is, Alex."
"Yuki," whispered Alex, looking at the floor. "I think we had better assign guardianship of Miyako to Lady Hippolyte - in case something happens to us."
"Agreed. Here's the paper; I've signed already."
"You've already prepared a document?"
"I had it prepared at the temple and brought it with me, thinking we should make arrangements for Miyako, should something happen to us."
"I don't like to think of her as an orphan," said Alex, signing the document. "Please reconsider."
"I don't do this lightly. Miyako is my only child, and I'm always uneasy when I'm separated from her. Too, I lost my own mother when I was eight, but I cannot bear to send you into the abyss alone."
"Sophia, we need a witness. Would you be willing?" asked Alex, suppressing the strong emotions that roiled within him.
Sophia took the legal-sized piece of parchment, read and signed it, afterward looking up at them, her eyes glistening with tears. "I lost my mother at nine," she whispered. "Tell me you will both return."
"We rendezvous tomorrow at zero three hundred; make sure you're here," said Alex, scribbling a note. "Be sure to hand this, and the custody document directly to Lady Hippolyte, no one else."
"I'll be here; you make sure you are here, hail and hearty, or there will be hell to pay. I say this not as your vice-captain, but as your princess."
"Indeed, Your Highness," said Alex with a bow. "Inform the Disith I'm on my way, Vice Captain."
"Good luck, Alex," whispered Sophia.
"You have your orders, Sophia. Follow them to the letter."
"Yes, Sir."
"And Sophia? You carry precious cargo…"
"Miyako will remain at my side, until I deliver her to Lady Hippolyte, personally."
"Thank you, Sophia."
Somewhere close to the Grand Stream
20 Dekembris 3037
Fourth Day of Saturnalia
Feast of Opalia, in Honor of Lady Ops, Goddess of Abundance
1400 Hours
Disith Ship Kirell's Guest Quarters
"This is certainly a great deal more opulent then the Silvana, Alexander," observed Yukino, gazing about at the well-arrayed guest quarters. "Would you care for a tart or a beverage?"
Alex ignored her; his irritation growing with every word she spoke. What did she think she was doing? Hostessing a party at the Enclave? And how could she possibly compare the Silvana to this bucket of bolts? Truth be told in terms of décor the Kirell's guest lounge did outshine the Silvana's, but then so did most places. However, a warship was no place for frills; it's business being deadly serious.
"Please talk to me, Alexander."
"Stop calling me Alexander." He crossed his arms and turned away.
"Why?"
"I'm not that person anymore."
"You are, though you keep him under wraps."
"That young man was an overconfident fool, who died in the Grand Stream ten years ago."
"Alex…"
Though they had been told to remain seated due to possible turbulence, Alex stood, an angry frown on his face as he commenced pacing, his hands behind his back. He really didn't know how Yukino could sit there calmly munching on pastries at a time like this.
"What is bothering you, Alex?" asked the lovely courtesan-priestess, watching him.
"Nothing."
"I can see that."
"Don't humor me! It's infuriating."
"You're uneasy because you're not in control."
"Spare me the analysis, Yukino."
"Did you expect Nikator would give you the run of the ship?"
"I have worked on these ships; in fact at the academy I was a member of the engineering team that identified their weaknesses."
"But that isn't why the prince confines you. Is it?"
"What are you talking about?"
"You were hoping to discover their method of traversing the Grand Stream."
"Maybe," said Alex, pausing to cross his arms, his nose in the air.
"But why? What is the point now?" asked Yukino. Alex sighed, dropping into the seat beside her.
"There are still thousands of people to move. Right now all we have to rely on are Marius' memories from twenty-five years ago. The Stream varies daily, sometimes hourly; it has become as unstable as the weather patterns and the constellations."
"Perhaps on the way back, I could divert the attention of our guards; we can't risk it until then. They might leave us behind."
"They might leave us behind in any case. We have to do it now."
"Alexander, you are so predictable; you have not changed at all."
"How long could you give me?"
"As long as you like."
"I'll take the service tunnel to the bridge; I can watch their methods from the communications service module."
"When you get back, will you sit with me?" asked Yukino, with a seductive smile.
"No."
"Why? You owe me an explanation."
"An explanation?"
"My surname."
"This is not the time, Yukino."
"Indeed it is," she said, with a lovely pout. "You promised me you would talk to me about it last night, but instead you got drunk with Nikator and Lupan."
"Don't insult me, Yukino, I was perfectly sober; however, those two were hammered."
"You were quoting long passages from Milton; that is a sure sign that you've overindulged."
"I always quote Milton; I had to convince Nikator that I was as wasted as he, so I could win the card game. Otherwise we would not be here."
"Ah, strategic drunkenness?"
"You have so little faith in me, Yukino."
"Do you even remember the passage?" she asked, her eyebrow arched like an inquisitor.
"The mind is its own place, and in itself
Can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell of Heaven.
What matter where, if I be still the same,
And what I should be, all but less than he
Whom thunder hath made greater? Here at least
We shall be free; the Almighty hath not built
Here for his envy, will not drive us hence:
Here we may reign secure; and, in my choice,
To reign is worth ambition, though in Hell:
Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven.
But wherefore let we then our faithful friends,
The associates and co-partners of our loss,
Lie thus astonished on the oblivious pool,
And call them not to share with us their part
In this unhappy mansion, or once more
With rallied arms to try what may be yet
Regained in Heaven, or what more lost in Hell?"
"Lucky guess," laughed Yukino. "Tell me, how's your head?"
"Have you got anything for a pounding headache, slight nausea?" asked Alex, his skin a pale shade of green.
"Yes, I brought some herbs."
"Hurry, Yuki," groaned Alex.
Yukino crossed the room and opened the door to the passageway, only to be barred by two burly guards.
"You are not authorized to leave this area, Lieutenant Alwet," said the taller of the two.
Alex watched with a smirk as Yukino went into full-on temptress mode, gazing at the poor bastard with her deep, black eyes, while batting her lustrous, long eyelashes. He felt sorry for the guileless soldier; a mere fly caught in the web of a very clever spider.
"What is your name?" asked Yukino, staring up at the man, her eyes wide and innocent. She had even changed the timber of her voice, speaking in a soft, high pitched, feminine murmur.
"I'm sorry Lieutenant Alwet, I didn't hear you."
She stood on tiptoes, murmuring in the soldier's ear, and Alex watched as their jailer melted. Alex had to admit, the voice she had adopted was utterly adorable.
"I'm Petty Officer Third Class Brodsky, Ma'am; I can't let you leave, but I'll send the ship's swain to fetch you some hot water and cups. Will that do?"
Yukino nodded, and then turned, slinking elegantly across the room as the poor petty officer third class stared, consumed. Alex bowed his head so the fellow would not see him laughing.
"That was quite a show," whispered Alex, when Yukino resumed her seat next to him.
"Was I obvious?"
"Not at all, Yukino; truly, you are a great artist."
"As are you, Alexander."
Before Alex could comment, the ship's swain burst into the room with a steaming teapot and cups, placing them on the serving table and rolling it to where Yukino sat.
"Will there be anything else, Lieutenant?" he asked, gazing into her face like a lovesick youth. Alex was pretty sure the good swain had no idea that another human being sat beside Yukino, such was the power of her glamour.
"No, thank you," said Yukino with a radiant smile and polite nod.
"Please do not hesitate to ask should you need anything," said the ship's swain, watching her with obvious admiration. "I am at your service; truly; anything."
"This will suffice, thank you."
"As you wish, but do feel free to inform the guard of your desires should you have even the slightest need. I'll rush to your service – anything – anything at all."
"I shall remember that."
With one last longing glance the man left, after which Yukino immediately jumped to her feet and prepared Alex' hangover remedy.
"I don't believe I cared for the way that man looked at you, Yukino," said Alex, taking his cup.
"You have nothing to fear, Alexander. Now drink up; it will not take effect for fifteen minutes. And you have work to do."
Alex drank the vile liquid, and then rested his head on Yukino's shoulder, where he tried heroically to keep from nodding off to sleep, but to no avail. Subtly the scene shifted, to Kuramasu Island on a clear summer night. He had climbed to just bellow the tree line and camped on the mountainside, where he lay under a lone black pine, breathing in its sweet fragrance, as he watched the millions of pulsating stars cast across the luminescent Prussian blue sky. With the vastness of the heavens and the multitude of stars, he knew he slept, for his dream-skies were always the same.
"Alexander…" said the dark silhouette of an owl, perched on a low branch just above him.
"Master Arpaktiko? Is that you?"
"Indeed, young man, it has been many years since last we met. Has it not?"
"Has Lady Persephone sent you?"
"She has. For some reason she is fond of you, though I cannot fathom why."
"Perhaps it is my rapport with her son, but you are right, I have not deserved her patronage."
"Humble pie does not work with me, Alexander! You should know that I am beyond feeling pity. Actions and their consequences are all I care about."
"You have always been a strict taskmaster. Have you a message?"
"Lady Persephone wishes to know why you take this journey instead of using her boon."
"I'm saving her gift until the time is right."
"And will the time ever be right?" asked Arpaktiko.
Alex frowned at the clever bird and then sat up, staring pensively into the darkness. The night raptor had a point.
"Ah…you are afraid," said the owl, floating down to Alex' side and examining him with its brilliant golden eyes. "You could have asked at any time, yet you conveniently forgot."
"Thank you for that analysis, Doctor Jung."
"Was that sarcasm? Gods, I do love sarcasm, though preferably my own."
"Are you staying to gloat? Or is there something else?"
"Why am I still here? Hmm…oh yes…there is more," said the owl, hopping about in front of Alex.
"From?"
"The lady, who else? Gods, you're an idiot."
"Says the one who forgot his task."
"You are extremely impertinent, human; you forget that I am an immortal."
"Yes, yes an immortal messenger…now state your business," commanded Alex.
"You must be prepared for the worst and the best."
"And?"
"And what?"
"That's it?"
"I believe it is quite succinct."
"Quite succinct, and quite useless," said Alex with a frown, but, truth be told, he didn't like the sound of it.
"It is not my fault you are a nincompoop."
"It is not my fault you are obscure and ambiguous."
"I see the nature of omens is not lost on a buffoon like you," shot back the haughty messenger.
"Anything else?" asked Alex, exasperated.
"No!"
"Goodnight then."
"It's morning, Alexander; you're dreaming. Remember?" said the owl, spreading his enormous brown and tan striped wings.
"Wait! I have a question. Is this the auger Yukino prayed for?"
"Do not be greedy human; it is unbecoming."
"The ring was the auger?" asked Alex, ignoring the insult.
"Do you need everything spelled out?" said the owl.
"Yes."
"You are so dense; truly, humans are pathetic. Ah, but what can be expected of a creature that is blind to seventy percent of the cosmos," growled the owl.
"Oh, come on, Master, grant me a blessing; we go way back.
The owl huffed an exasperated sigh. "Y-E-S!"
"Thank you," said Alex, standing and bowing.
Arpaktiko turned his head slowly to profile and stared at Alex with one enormous eye, blinking slowly, and then, with a gurgling sound that Alex though might be a chuckle, the bird launched itself to the heavens. It circled high above him and then dropped rapidly, resuming its gyre.
"Do not delay, human, Lady Persephone loses patience."
"I don't wish to use a boon from the holy lady for trivial reasons."
"You know very well this is not trivial. Soon, human, soon," said the bird, squinting menacingly as if Alex were prey.
"As my lady commands," replied Alex, shivering like a helpless field mouse.
The night raptor blinked once more, to show he meant business, Alex presumed, and then flew away. For a moment Alex lay down and resumed gazing at the heavens, but his eyelids grew heavy, and once again he dozed as the scene shifted to his dream beach where he woke seated on the high cliff overlooking the black sand shore, but once again he was not alone.
"I've been waiting for you," whispered his sylph. As usual Ourea wore a wreath woven of pine bows in her dark long hair. A light warm breeze sent wisps of her silky fine locks dancing in the breeze.
"Ourea…" murmured Alex, kissing her cheek. Gods, he loved her complicated scent. What is it, he wondered… clouds… cloves… wind… spring rain?
"When will you make use of the boon?" asked Ourea, pulling the sleeve of her diaphanous pale green dress over her bare shoulder.
"Not you too?" accused Alex, but he regretted it, for when she turned to him, he could see she was not well. Her vibrant gray-green eyes seemed clouded with sorrow, and her tawny skin had paled until it appeared almost translucent but for the dark marks that encircled her eyes.
"You will need me," she said, her normally sweet, clear voice sounding raspy, weary and breathless.
"That goes without saying; I've always needed you. But, Ourea, what is wrong?" Alex felt moved to tears. What had he done to bring this about?
"Have the poem complete before you make the supplication," she ordered, dangling her bare legs over the cliff's edge. She turned away with a wan,
heartbroken smile.
"Ourea, what is it?" asked Alex. "And what poem?"
"The poem Dracori requested you finish – about heaven's love for sea."
"But why?" he asked, pulling the gauzy sleeve of her dress off her shoulder to kiss her skin. How could he have abandoned her? But he knew; in his anger and bitterness, he'd turned his back on all that supported him in favor of a vendetta. And, no matter how hard he'd tried to move on over the last ten years, he always spiraled back to that terrible day in the Grand Stream and the heartless, gloating smile of that Guild bitch. He had to bring her low for so many reasons.
"He is the boundary guardian; he will not let you pass without it," she said, running the back of her hand lightly over his cheek. "I have missed your attention so much."
"Pass to where?" he asked, grabbing her hand and kissing her fingertips.
"Where do you think?" She laughed quietly, her eyes half closed.
"If I knew I would not need to use the boon." Alex saw tears in her eyes.
"You are out of excuses, Alexander; it is time to man up," said Ourea. She seemed to be trying to sound stern and formal, but her voice caught as a tear traveled slowly down her pallid cheek.
"Man up?" smiled Alex, gently. "Do you know what that means?"
"To grow a pair," said the sylph, with some of her old haughtiness as she pushed the tear away. "Though you ignore me, I have not been unobservant. Did you not instruct the prince to do the same?"
Alex looked away; had he been a coward all these years, dodging the truth of Euris' fate? "I suppose we're in for another trip to the underground?"
"That is obvious, for that is where Lady Persephone resides."
"To her grotto?"
"Possibly."
"By the same route?"
"Maybe."
"Are you sure you have the strength?" asked Alex, putting his arm around her shoulder.
"I shall find it." Ourea leaned on him, weeping.
"Ourea, is this trip to Disith folly?" asked Alex. "Is that why you weep?"
"I weep because I am your sylph and it gives me great happiness to converse with you like this again. As to the trip to Disith, I cannot see into the future; I have no oracular powers."
"Do you have advice?"
"This journey is something you must do; it will have unexpected beneficial consequences, but not in the way you wish."
"Hm…is that a prophecy?"
"There is no magic involved; it is a simple extrapolation based on the facts."
"Explain," he asked, rocking her in his arms, and finding comfort in the great, redeeming love they shared.
"You will see; there is one aboard the Kirell that you have written off as an enemy. Tread carefully and you may make a powerful ally."
"Who?"
"Use your head," she laughed at him, nestling closer.
"I have so many enemies…" whispered Alex. "It's hard to…"
"You'll see; this man, though repulsive, has redeeming qualities…"
"Is happiness the only reason you weep?"
"No, Alexander."
"Then why?"
"You must act. Time is short."
"Ourea? Why do you say that?"
"You must surmount these difficulties, without delay; the end draws nigh. And remember me, please."
"I'll never forget you again…you are mine. And I've learned the hard way that nothing can be mine, nor can I even be my own, unless you are mine first."
"For if you are not mine nothing is mine. Two as one," whispered the sylph, kissing his lips. He returned the kiss with all the old passion and longing he'd once felt for this elemental being who lived within and through him.
"Wake up, Alexander," whispered Yukino, shaking him. "We're entering the Grand Stream."
"Yuki…" groaned Alex, feeling dizzy from the quickness of the shift.
"Here, have some coffee."
"No need, I'm awake," said Alex, sitting up. Physically he felt much better, though Ourea's comments and demeanor made him uneasy. He'd not seen her weep since he was a boy. "You must leave me some of that tea."
"Not if it enables your drinking."
"Are you ready to dazzle them?"
"I am," she said with a smile and a wink. Yukino stood, smoothing her skirt and adjusting her hair, pulling strands from under kepi.
"You look stunning as always, Yukinon; no need to adjust anything," said Alex, admiring her.
Something in Ourea's urgency moved Alex to nostalgia, and he recalled his long-term, deep attachment to Yukino. They shared a bond – an understanding without words – that he took for granted. Acting upon this odd longing, he stood, taking her hand and leading her out of sight of the guards, where he kissed her. "Yukino, I…"
"Alex…?"
"You are very dear to me," he said, pulling her into his arms. "Remember that, should something happen to me."
"Alex, you're giving me chills," said Yukino, returning the embrace. "Have you had a dream?"
"No," he lied. "I just wanted you to know."
"Thank you, Alex," she said, pulling his head down and kissing him.
"Ahem…"
Alex and Yukino quickly released each other to find themselves in the presence of Pateras Apraxin, who gazed back at them with his usual creepy grimace. Alex wondered how he'd missed the odor of stale paper that followed the man everywhere.
"Good day, Captain Alex. And to you, Lieutenant Alwet is it? You look so like the doctor's assistant."
"Pateras Apraxin," said Alex. "I had no idea you were aboard."
"Did you think I'd not find out about this excursion? You underestimate me."
"I had no idea you wished to accompany us," said Alex, maintaining politeness.
"I must speak with you, Captain. Perhaps, your subordinate… or is companion a better word? Anyway, perhaps she would give us a moment?"
"Lieutenant Alwet?" said Alex.
"You know Lieutenant Alwet you do bare a strong resemblance to the good doctor's assistant." With a smirk on his pale, narrow face, Pateras Apraxin squinted at her through his long stringy hair.
"She's my cousin," lied Yukino, with a brilliant smile that Alex knew to be fake.
"Ah, I see; the captain is indeed a lucky man to have two such charming women aboard his ship," said the priest, adjusting his dirty black robe.
"Thank you, Pateras, I'll be sure to share your compliment with my cousin," said Yukino, walking away. Alex thought he saw a shiver of revulsion run down her spine.
"Perhaps, you and your cousin would join me for diner?" asked the holy man, eyeing Yukino closely.
"What is it you wish to discuss with me, Pateras?" asked Alex, anxious to get rid of this strange, strange man and commence the espionage operation.
"Your name, Captain Alex," said Pateras Apraxin, still watching Yukino cross the room.
Alex knew what the old letch was thinking 'Dat ass' or something close to it, thus he moved directly into the priest's line of sight, rendering Yuki invisible. Perhaps Sophia had been right to name Yukino a distraction. "My name, Pateras?"
"Yes, your name," said Apraxin, redirecting his gaze to Alex with a frown.
"State your concern."
"You have an imperial bearing; do you realize that, Alexander?"
"So you have come to the conclusion that Alex is a diminutive for Alexander? What amazing powers of deduction."
"Thank you, Alexander, but it is the rest of your name I need to confirm. Alexander Pieter James Petros Row?"
"How ridiculous! Connecting me with that patzer," said Alex, turning away from the man so he wouldn't see Alex' complexion go livid. How did he know? And, if he knew Alex' true identity, had he guessed Sophia's? She could be in immanent danger while Alex chased what? Ghosts?
"There is no need to fear, Alexander. You may be the spawn of the Dark Lord, but I made a vow to the Sankta to aid you and that supersedes all."
"You made a promise to Sankta Cygnus Cadens Rubricata?"
"I did."
"You spoke to her?"
"In a sense."
"In a sense?"
"She answered a prayer."
"A prayer?"
"You'll understand soon enough."
"I prefer to understand now," said Alex, regaining his composure and turning to face the repulsive priest.
"I prayed for the deliverance of my village day and night for weeks to no avail, until one day my great-great aunt came to me with the sankta's ring and a request."
"What sort of ring?"
"You know very well what ring. That so called artist took it and gave it to you last night."
"I have no idea what you are talking about."
The poor pateras sighed. "Your evasions only add to the mounting evidence that you are the one. The sankta warned Amita Maya…"
"Amita Maya?"
"My great-great aunt."
"What was the sankta's request?"
"That I may use the ring as I saw fit; however, there was a caveat. In return I must make an effort to find Alexander Row and do whatever he asked– no matter what the circumstances."
"When was this?"
"Eight, possibly nine, years ago – there abouts."
"Why should I trust someone who despises me?"
"Well, the feeling is mutual, isn't it?"
"You answer my question with a question that is irrelevant. I am not Alexander Row."
"But you fit the description so well; I cannot understand why it took me so long to see it."
"Description?"
"What must I do to gain your trust?"
"Nothing would ever lead me trust you."
"Let me see. Besides interviewing Amita Maya about the sankta, what would you hope to gain from this trip?"
"That is not your concern."
Alex made to walk away, but Apraxin followed. "Perhaps if I revealed how we Disith traverse the Grand Stream so easily?"
"Well, how do you?"
"Would you trust me if I gave you the secret?"
"Perhaps."
"Perhaps?"
"It depends on how absurd your explanation is."
"I see. The method of navigation must seem plausible to you."
"You state the obvious."
"I shall risk it, but in return you will do two things," demanded the priest.
"Will I?"
"They are simple requests; you will allow me to be present when you question my great-great aunt, and you will help me convince her that the sankta wishes her to depart with us."
"That is it?"
"It would be best if you trusted me; however, that cannot be forced. So I'll settle for the two I've stated."
"And why would your great-great auntie listen to the likes of me?" smirked Alex.
"The possessor of the ring has vouched for you. I can see my remark has deeply affected you. Perhaps, you need time to consider your response?"
"No," said Alex, his heart beating rapidly, a combination of dread and anticipation. But then, a clever thought came to him borne on a fearful jolt of adrenaline; just how much did Apraxin love his dear auntie? "I agree on one condition."
"Condition?"
"Yes."
"What is it?" said the priest with annoyance.
"The Ivri need a new home; we must settle them with your villagers in the Ivy Keys. There is no other place for them."
"The Ivri?" asked Pateras Apraxin, venom in his voice. "That is impossible. They are anathema; their ways are vile."
"You realize they will die if we don't move them."
"Then that is their fate," pronounced the priest with finality.
"Explain to me this; you say you are blessed by your deity, do you not?" asked Alex, walking to a nearby porthole to watch as lightening bolts flashed through the angry clouds of Grand Stream.
"Of course, thus my village is saved." Apraxin followed him.
"It is a mystery to me."
"What is?"
"Why any deity would bless the likes of you."
"That is because you are damned," growled the pateras.
"I may be damned, but I am not stupid; I researched the Ivri and their relationship to your cult."
"It is not a cult!"
"All of Disith once worshiped as the Ivri do. These people are your countrymen, some may even be relatives. How can you condemn them to death?" asked Alex, turning a piercing glare on the judgmental holy man.
"It is not I; it is their refusal to see the true way," said Pateras Apraxin, his tone stern and haughty, yet the priest's eyes betrayed a trace of conscience laced with a hint of doubt. Alex sensed that he had struck a nerve.
"So your deity will allow the annihilation of an entire people – every man, woman and child - over a few points canonical law?"
"I would not expect you to understand."
"You have placed a set of arbitrary rules before the lives of your fellow countrymen. Truly, you throw away a unique opportunity."
"What do you mean?" asked Apraxin. Alex sensed desperation; perhaps, the man needed a way out of his hate.
"Isn't there a story in your sacred texts regarding the righteousness of giving aid to those you revile?"
"You have it backwards; the story is about receiving help from those you revile. And how is it you know of our scripture?" Apraxin eyed Alex suspiciously.
"As Anatoray's liaison officer to the Disith, it is my duty to know, and as to having it backwards I don't think so," said Alex, commencing a lawyerly pace. "You assume the one who gives aid in the story is not repulsed by the unfortunate he helps. There is nothing to support that."
"You are saying the revulsion goes both ways?"
"Indeed, just like us," said Alex, resting his case.
"I believe you may be right; the scriptures in action so to speak. It would be a teachable moment."
"And isn't that the point, Pateras?"
"This will not be easy; I shall have to prepare the people, but it must and can be done, using the scripture you have cited."
"Do you agree to my condition?"
"I do. And what of you?"
"I agree to your terms," said Alex, turning on his heels and making for a seat beside Yukino.
"Thank you," said Pateras Apraxin, following closely. "Though I cannot help but wonder how the sankta came to have knowledge of a man with your diabolical nature. Ah, well her ways are mysterious."
"Indeed, they are." Alex sat close to Yukino, very pleased with himself. Still a niggling concern haunted him. What if Nikator, Lupan and Apraxin simply manipulated him? And if they did, why? To get at Sophia? But the ring? He had no doubt as to its authenticity. No, he would see this through, not that he had a choice; however, how to protect Yukino? Best to act like he always did; haughty, callous, cold and slightly demented. "Well?" Alex demanded.
"Well what?" asked Apraxin.
"What is the Disith secret for navigating the Grand Stream?"
"It's very simple. We follow the rain birds."
"The rain birds?"
"Indeed when we enter the Grand Stream we put up no resistance allowing the air currents to pull us until we locate flocks of rain birds, and then we simply follow them. They are peerless navigators."
"Rain birds," laughed Alex. Such a simple, elegant solution, he had no doubt of the priest's veracity. "Of course."