A/N Me: Hey everyone! I'm really sorry for the long delay, but…
(Author collapses to the ground as the door bursts open and knocks into her. The Storm Hawks, Dark Ace, Master Cyclonis and Harrier rush into the room and enclose the author in a circle)
Piper: Okay, Fantasy, spill; why haven't you updated in like forever?!
Me: It's a long story…
Dark Ace: Don't be foolish girl! So, what's your excuse? (brandishes energy blade, activates it, and holds it below author's throat)
Me: Well, I-I-I've been b-b-busy w-with school, v-vi-isiting r-relatives, and social i-issues. Not to m-mention that I've ha-had no in-inspirata-ation for this chapter. P-P-Please do-don't hurt m-m-me! begs on knees
Master Cyclonis: Not good enough! Finish her off Dark Ace!
Me: Wait! Why do-don't the r-r-readers r-read this ch-chapter and th-then you guys decide what to do with me de-depending on their f-f-feedback?
Aerrow: (nods) Okay, that sounds reasonable. This chapter better be worthy.
Radarr: (chirps in agreement and makes a face at the author)
Harrier: Indeed! And you better not have made fun of me in this chapter!
Me: (breathes in relief and grins) Oh, Harrier, when did I do such a thing?
Harrier: In the last chapter, when you described me as an annoying, arrogant person! Not to mention the scenes when…
Junko: (slaps Harrier in the face) Sorry Harrier, but we really don't have time for this.
Harrier: (groans and falls unconscious to the floor)
Me: (gets up and hugs Junko) You are my idol! Okay, on to the disclaimer.
Finn: Oh, oh! Can I do it? Pretty, pretty please?!
Me: (sighs) Alright, Finn; proceed.
Finn: Fantasyfan4ever does not own Storm Hawks or anything related to the show. Also, Terra Hallow entirely belongs to DevilsAngelSaphire.
Stork: (Dramatically gasps) Terra Hallow?! That place gave me nightmares for months! I still remember those atrocious trees that come to life after night! Not to mention the residents themselves…( curls up in fetus position on the floor while trembling and muttering to himself)
Me: Okay then...on with the chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter 14: Meetings
With sunlight streaming through the window, Piper's orange eyes slowly opened. Yawning silently, she stiffly stood up. She raised her arms up high and then removed herself from the warmth of her blanket. She headed towards the wide mirror and combed her messy hair with a flexible, wide comb. Once she was done, she placed the comb back into the top drawer. Her blue, silky, crystal covered pajamas were all wrinkled, so she smoothed them out with her fingers. Sure, they were childish, but she couldn't resist the design and comfort.
Piper took a moment to examine herself. Despite her new work, she was looking better than ever. Her skin was regaining its usual color, and her eyes had fewer bags thanks to longer hours of sleep.
Piper strolled towards the window and leaned her shoulder against the wall, gazing out on the early morning sky. Not many clouds were present in the sky, and a soothing breeze floated through the air. Various types of birds were singing lovely melodies as they soared in pairs.
She observed a particular pair flying around each other in an exquisite formation. They were in such infallible unison that it seemed as if they were dancing.
The girl sighed softly and became absorbed in her thoughts. Was it possible that she and Ace could be together just like the birds? She had truly begun to know him for only two days, yet it seemed as if they were life long friends already. They had so much in common: they both strived to achieve peace, they were both skilled in sky-fu, and they shared a passion for food. Yes, she and Cyclonis were alike as well, but for some reason, she was immensely attached to Ace.
Maybe it was because he understood her so well. Or perhaps that he was always concerned about her. She had never seen him so caring about another person except for perhaps Master Cyclonis. Of course, it was expected of him to behave that way as her right hand man.
Like any being, he had his flaws. His temper was as uncontrollable as a phoenix, yet Piper was aware that he was striving to control it better. Ace always seemed aloof from everyone else; it was like he was in his own world. Oh, and everyone knew how merciless he was in battle.
Piper shifted her position and leaned back against the wall. Those flaws had abruptly reminded of her of Ace's dark side. That probably explained her emotions; her doubts still lingered.
True, change does not occur to a person in just a few days or even weeks. Specks of indifference remained in both of them especially Ace; she could tell from his confrontation with Harrier. However, she truly believed both had planned for virtuous intentions in the future. After all, they wouldn't be carrying out this mission for nothing.
"Well, someone is up early today." A firm yet velvety voice entered her mind. It took Piper a moment to realize that it came from someone else. The navigator stood up and turned her head over her shoulder; she nearly stumbled if she hadn't gathered herself together. Ace was leaning against the doorway wearing his uniform and a smirk. He sauntered into the room towards Piper.
Piper gulped and managed to say, "Oh, morning Ace. I didn't notice your arrival." Ace shook his head in amusement; he halted about a foot away from the girl. "I knocked on your door twice; I thought you were asleep, but then I heard you get up. I knocked once again, but you didn't answer."
Piper fought to conceal the blush appearing on her dark face. "Sorry; I was musing."
"What were you thinking about it?" Piper stiffened at his inquisitiveness; what could she tell him? Ace noticed her discomfort immediately and quickly added, "It's fine if you don't want to tell me. You are entitled to your privacy."
Piper flashed a smile towards him; oh, how sweet he was! "No, I'll tell you. I was just thinking about how close I've become to you and Cyclonis. I could never imagine that we would be such fast friends."
She was telling the truth, but she suppressed the information on her changing feelings for him. She was totally not ready to reveal that to him.
Ace chortled inaudibly, yet his dark eyes showed no callous feelings. "Yes, it is remarkable. However, I do not regret Master Cyclonis' decision of appointing you at all. Every moment, I am relishing our companionship more and more." Piper's eyes were suddenly attracted to her feet as Ace spoke.
"I'm glad to hear that Ace. I am always delighted to making new friends." Piper's voice was steady and polite with no nervousness reveled, but she secretly hoped that he wouldn't notice her glowing face.
Ace earnestly replied, "You know, it's always been hard for me to make friends. People have always viewed me as a heartless, corrupted person; some even claim I am a monster. I do not blame them for thinking that way after all the crimes I have perpetrated. Also, I'm not the most sociable being in Atmos. However, with you, I can just be myself."
After a concise pause, Ace loudly cleared his throat. "Well, breakfast will be served in about half an hour. You better get ready for the day; it's going to be a long one. I'll see you shortly."
He nodded once and headed towards the doorway. Right outside the door, he turned towards her with the return of his smirk. "Oh, and by the way, nice pajamas."
Piper gasped; she had completely forgotten that she hadn't dressed yet! Ace's smirk widened at the girl's mollified expression, and he calmly closed the door.
Once she was sure that the echo of the man's footsteps disappeared, she moaned out loud and stomped her feet on the ground. It was so frustrating how her feelings could fluctuate so rapidly!
By mid afternoon, Piper was ready to collapse. There had been back to back meetings all morning long, and some of them had lasted for more than two hours. Lunch was served late due to the frenzied schedule. Luckily, there was only one more meeting for the day.
After a quick nap, Piper sprinted to the peace planning room. Their last meeting of the day would be with the sky knight of Terra Hallow. Since the residents of the terra preferred to be active at late in the day, the meeting would take place at sunset.
Terra Hallow was one of the most mystifying places of all of Atmos. Not many people knew much about the terra. It was founded by a girl named Kathy Hallow. The terra's main holiday was Halloween; in fact, it was the exact place where the holiday began.
According to Stork, barbaric trees would come to life as soon as the sun disappeared from the horizon. Some wondered how anyone could live tranquilly on such a terra.
Of course, the terra was popular for its beautiful beach. Beings from all over would come for vacationing throughout the year. Piper had heard that the terra threw some of the wildest parties. Few foreigners received any invitations, so if outsiders were invited, they were considered worthy enough. Even attending a single Hallow party was an honor itself.
Piper halted right outside the door and rapidly typed in the password. The door beeped, and it swished open. Piper ran inside and heavily crashed her body to her chair. The chair spun in place and began to move towards the wall. She jabbed her feet against the wall just in time; the chair immediately stopped rotating.
Once her mind stopped spinning, she vaguely heard chuckling. Shaking her head, she turned her chair to face Ace and Cyclonis. She blushed so profoundly that the color of her face turned to rust.
"Excited for the meeting Piper?" Master Cyclonis lightly inquired with a speck of amusement. Her countenance remained its natural seriousness, but her eyes betrayed it with grace.
Piper rolled her eyes and scooted her chair closer to the pair. "I thought I was going to be late; I guess I behaved a bit too rash." She stopped right besides Ace and turned her chair towards the BTS trying to maintain her cool. She was flabbergasted on her infantile behavior; she knew better!
Her eyes caught Ace's notorious smirk, and her embarrassment evaporated. She loosened up and changed the topic before Cyclonis could say anything else.
"So, is it time for the meeting?" Cyclonis powered up the BTS and modified the settings as she confirmed, "Yes, as soon as I get the system connected. It'll probably take a few minutes."
Piper sighed; well, at least she wasn't late. She looked out the window observing the dusk scenery. The birds were flying to their nests while chatting animatedly with each other. The sky was garnished with a mixture of red, orange, and dark blue.
Just above the horizon, the hazy sun was making its approach downwards. At the point when the horizon became a tangent to the obscure orb, the sky suddenly transformed to a personalized rainbow. All the colors from green to purple were spread horizontally like stripes. Piper had never seen such a captivating sight.
"Gorgeous isn't it?" Ace commented subtly. Speechless from the view, Piper nodded her head.
Humming filled the room as the BTS finally gained full power. Cyclonis headed towards her seat while waiting for the sky knight to connect. They didn't have to wait long, for in a minute, the screen flashed, and a face appeared.
While Cycolnis and the sky knight exchanged greetings, Piper curiously examined the stranger.
The man wasn't exactly handsome, but he had some sort of charm with the way he talked. He had a round face with a square chin. His bright blue eyes shone out of his tanned face; from their hardness and weariness, it appeared they displayed the immense experience of a warrior. His dark brown hair was cut short with several strands hovering over his face. His nose was pointy at the tip, and a dark goatee spread from his chin to the sides of his wide mouth. On the right side of his nose, a thin scar presided across the cheek. Probably one of his battle wounds, Piper thought.
He had broad shoulders covered with grey shoulder pads. His torso was also covered with an armor plate of the same color. All the armor pieces bore the symbol of the terra's squadron, an owl.
Her eyes darted back to the scar. It was formed in an unusual shape; it appeared as an undulating snake. Every time the man's mouth moved, the scar would begin to shake causing the image of a slithering snake to appear in Piper's mind. She wondered what weapon caused such an interesting scar.
A blue eye caught her orange ones. Looking down in shame, Piper focused on Master Cyclonis who was finishing her introduction of Ace.
"Ace is my assistant; he used to serve as the Talon commander." Dark Ace nodded and said, "Pleased to meet you sir." The man spoke in a rough voice. "Likewise; I've heard much about you."
Master Cyclonis turned to Piper and announced, "And this is my negotiator, Piper. She also happens to be first officer, navigator, and crystal expert of the Storm Hawks squadron. Piper, this is Bryce, sky knight of Terra Hallow's squadron, the Grey Owls."
Piper nervously said, "It's an honor to meet you sir." She had trouble focusing on the man's face; that scar was just so distracting.
The man nodded and replied, "Thank you my dear, but it's also my honor. I once knew the former Storm Hawks; one of the finest squadrons around. From what I've heard, your squadron has successfully lived up to its name."
Piper beamed and lost all anxiety. For a rough looking guy, Bryce possessed a compassionate, noble heart. "Thank you sir. I really appreciate it."
Cyclonis smiled and officially began the meeting. As she explained the mission along with some commentary by Ace and Piper, Bryce kept nodding his head. Occasionally, he would say, "Is that so?" or "Ah, I see." Otherwise, he didn't say much.
Once Cyclonis was finished with her explanation, Bryce took a moment to think over her words. He rubbed his hand against his neck with his blue eyes narrowed in concentration.
He took a deep breath and exhaled before speaking. His voice descended to a low murmur, and his tone sounded incredulous and admirable at the same time.
"Well, I thought I'd never see the day that Cyclonians would offer peace. Now, I'd think this would be some sort of trap, but there are several reasons why I believe you. For one thing, Piper is in your company; as a Storm Hawk, she possesses superior judgment."
Bryce paused to give the girl a glamorous grin. Piper blushed but stayed silent.
Bryce continued on in a more serious tone, "Also, since you have consulted many sky knights already, I doubt that an attack or sabotage would be delayed this long. It would be impossible and imprudent to endeavor such an act with numerous squadrons. In addition, I've heard from other sky knights about your mission, and I can never distrust so many of my comrades. I trust their assessment well enough, and all their thoughts are blended into one."
He gazed down at Cyclonis and Ace with intense eyes as he concluded, "Finally, I have heavy doubts that you two are deceiving us all. You have finally realized the reality of your actions and have changed yourselves from evil to good. Your hearts are set on the right path, and your intentions are for the better of Atmos."
A heavy silence followed Bryce's speech. Finally, Cyclonis smiled and said, "I'm glad that you trust us. But, I must ask, how can you precisely decipher me and Ace?"
Judging by her face and eyes, Piper found no harshness or dread, just curiosity and fascination.
Bryce's face took on an apprehensive expression as if he were in trouble. "Well, my dear lady, I would like to apologize to advance to you all for my rudeness. I only did it for me to comprehend easier; it shames me to invade one's privacy so easily."
The three were suddenly confused, and the blue eyed man could tell immediately. "Allow me to elucidate. You see, some of the residents on my terra are born with supernatural powers. I happen to be one of them. My powers consist of reading and manipulating minds…so, I looked into all of your minds to confirm this plan and to make sure I didn't fall into the hands of treachery. So, I hope that you can understand my action." He ended his explanation with a sheepish look.
Piper sucked in a deep breath. She didn't know what she was more shocked by: the fact that Bryce had such an incredible power or that he just used it on all of them. Or perhaps even both. Her lungs felt like they were going to burst, and her throat was trembling.
Piper finally realized the problem and exhaled deeply.
Ace's hands clutched tightly to his chair; his fists turned pale white with his veins throbbing violently. Piper had seen this action many times during the meeting; it was one of his methods of controlling his temper.
However, both were shocked when a low chuckle came from Master Cyclonis. It grew into a hearty laugh, and she struggled to talk through severe breaths. "Oh my…I should have known…thought that was an absurd rumor. Very clever…Bryce...very clever; you acted…on practical instincts…"
The young girl leaned over her stomach when she couldn't speak any more. Everyone else stared at her as if she was insane.
Finally, Cyclonis rose up and cleared her throat. Her voice resumed its smooth tone. "Well then, now that that is out of the way, let's get to business."
She smoothed her cloak gingerly as she continued, "Bryce, what is your final decision?"
Bryce's face resumed its original state now that he was no longer in guilt. "Well, I discussed the matter with my squadron, and we agreed unanimously to accept this treaty. However, I must ask this question; why didn't you just approach the Sky Council over at Terra Atmosia? This would have made things easier for you."
Piper's eyes narrowed; she had never thought of that idea. Yes, Bryce did make an excellent point.
Cyclonis responded, "Yes, I had thought about that at first. However, I didn't want to make the approach of a possible takeover. Think about it. I approach the council with my proposition; let's say they accept it. This enforces all the squadrons to follow it no matter what their hearts lay on it. Some will protest and perhaps take action. Acting against the council is a capital punishment, and very few get away without the consequences."
Piper shivered; she and the Storm Hawks could fully relate to that.
Cyclonis slightly shifted in her chair. "So, these squadrons are given a warning, yet they give no heed. They keep acting against the treaty, and sooner or later, they are removed from their posts. Nonetheless, they are still determined to fight against us despite our treaty. So, some type of rebellion forms, and conflicts arise throughout Atmos."
Cyclonis looked at Bryce right in his eyes. "I didn't want to make matters worse than they are already. Therefore, I decided to meet up with each terra separately so that they can decide for themselves. As for the council, I plan to approach them lastly. However, I will not push them to accept this; I wouldn't blame them if doubts still lingered with them."
Piper stared at awe at her friend. It was so difficult to imagine such a kind hearted, considerate girl was once a malevolent leader. Change performed wonders.
Bryce's bright eyes sparkled in astonishment and approval. "Very wise my dear. You have truly thought things over. Well, I must be on my way. It was a pleasure meeting you all."
Cyclonis nodded. "Yes, I hope our paths cross one day."
"Thank you for your cooperation sir; you won't regret it." Piper jumped in her chair. Ace had been so quiet throughout the meeting that he startled her. "Take care, and have a good night."
Bryce nodded at both. "It's lovely to see this side to you both. I believe there is good in all people "
He turned his attention to Piper with a benign smile. "Take care young Piper. You have done so much already, but your work is far from over."
Piper smiled at the older man. "I have always been in that type of situation. It was great to meet you too sir. Take care."
Bryce said that he would. Before he logged off, he casually remarked, "Oh and Piper, you are the first person who has ever thought of it as a snake. Most imagine an eel or an undulated stick." With a sharp salute, he logged off leaving behind a mortified girl and her two bemused companions.
The Condor landed gently on the ground beside an eerie forest. It was beginning to get dark, and the guys noticed some of the trees twitching. After coaxing Stork to depart from the ship ("Stork, we all have our weapons, and yes, you can wear your…armor"), the group headed to the local restaurant located on the edge of the forest.
The night was silent except for the soft hooting of an owl and the gentle swishing of the ocean nearby. The guys could see the notorious beach beyond the dim forest. While the forest represented uneasiness, the beach showed tranquility. Its exotic palm trees waved peacefully by a soothing breeze.
Finn glanced at Aerrow from the corner of his eye. The red head looked slightly better today, yet his eyes remained aloof. Today had been quite tranquil. Finn and Junko exploded two raw crystals they found in the engine room, but no major incidents happened. However, it was strange without Piper; she would usually cause such a pandemonium that the walls vibrated from her shrieking.
A low sound rumbled from out of nowhere. Stork froze and whispered, "What was that?" He grasped onto Junko's arm and yelped as the noise came again.
The others rolled their eyes, and Junko tenderly removed Stork from his grasp. "It's only my stomach Stork. Hehe, I didn't know I was that hungry."
Finn and Radarr chuckled, and even Aerrow produced a miniscule smile. Stork calmed himself down, and they soon made it to the restaurant.
Like everything on Terra Hallow, the restaurant possessed a gothic aura. The room was shadowy with dim lights hanging from the ceiling. As the guys looked around, they saw obscure figures spread out throughout the room huddling together. There was more noise here than outside, yet it wasn't exactly a party going on here. Stares met with the strangers especially with Stork and his bizarre outfit, but they quickly turned away.
They were seated at a booth next to a table occupied by a serious looking group. They were huddled together over their dinner with their voices rumbling in unison.
As the Storm Hawks got their dinner and began to dig in, they caught a part of the secretive conversation, "Yeah, the girl Piper… working with the Cyclonians…liked her a lot."
Aerrow stiffened and dropped his spoon into his seafood stew. It splashed into the bowl and a few drops landed on his shirt, but he barely noticed. What on Atmos were those guys talking about, and why did they mention Piper? He looked at his friends, and their eyes were wide open. Silently, they got up, and approached the group.
Aerrow cleared his throat and politely asked, "Excuse me? I'm Aerrow, and this is my squadron, the Storm Hawks. We can't help but be curious of what you were saying about our friend Piper."
All of a sudden, the restaurant hushed. Everyone stared at the two groups, and sudden whispers spread like wild fire.
"Did he say Storm Hawks?"
"So, that's Aerrow…"
"I bet a fight's coming along."
One man from the group raised his hand. "Please everyone. Nothing to see here; just a friendly chat between squadrons. Carry on with your meals." He spoke in a firm tone which echoed through the place.
Immediately, the atmosphere returned to its noisy way, but several people kept their eyes on the group.
Aerrow narrowed his green eyes towards the speaker. "Wait, are you guys the Grey Owls, squadron of Terra Hallow?"
The group chuckled, and the speaker offered his hand. "Indeed we are young man. I'm Bryce, sky knight, and this is my squadron." The Storm Hawks shook hands with him. Then, he introduced the rest of his teammates.
As soon as everyone had shook hands, Bryce ordered for another table to be added to theirs. The Storm Hawks fetched their meals, and both groups ate together.
Aerrow examined Bryce thoroughly as he slurped up his stew. He could tell the older man was an experienced warrior despite his causal manner. His blue eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he discussed various weapons with Junko. He swept his dark brown hair with a large hand.
Aerrow thought Seems like a nice guy, but why was Piper mentioned?
Bryce turned his round face and smiled sheepishly at his fellow sky knight. "My apologies Aerrow. I delayed answering your question."
He chuckled at Aerrow's shocked face. "Yes, I can read minds. Not to mention alter them."
Finn yelled, "Man, I thought that was a super situation the locals thought!"
Bryce's short, cocky copilot named Haden who was about the same age as the Storm Hawks snorted. "Oh, they encourage it. Some like the thought of freaking out foreigners."
Bryce gulped some water before resuming. "Concerning your friend Piper, I met her this evening on a broadcast system. Along with Master Cyclonis and Dark Ace, we discussed their peace treaty. And, we all got to know each other as well."
Aerrow sighed in relief. "Oh, I see. So, how'd things go, if you don't mind telling us?"
Bryce said, "Not at all. Well, we accepted it, for we are eager to end all this violence. I have no doubts that those three will fail."
As soon as dinner was done, the Grey Owls offered accommodation for the Storm Hawks. After much protesting, they paid for the meals as well. Bryce told Stork that he could park the Condor in their hanger bay close to their lodging. After getting directions to the location, Stork left early to leave the airship in its temporary home.
"Come now! You are all guests here." Bryce explained as he glanced at the embarrassed faces of the Storm Hawks.
The guys appreciatively smiled at their hosts, and both squadrons walked through the restaurant's doorway, entering into the inscrutable night.
A/N Me: There, I'm finally done! This is my longest chapter ever! What do you think?
Piper: Not bad at all; I liked the ending the best.
Cyclonis: Eh, I've seen better.
Aerrow: I'm actually shocked; I didn't expect it to be so good,
Radarr: (nods head rapidly)
Finn: Loved your writing style, but you should have mentioned me!
Junko: Best thing I've ever read.
Me: Thanks guys! (pokes an unconscious Harrier and insane Stork) Shouldn't we help these two?
Aerrow: Nah, Stork will get out of his, uh, mood soon, and with Harrier, well, who cares?
Cyclonis: For once, I agree with the sky knight. Now, what to do with the author?
Me: Hey! We had a deal. It's up to the readers to decide my fate.
Dark Ace: A deal is a deal. Well, no use hanging here. (everyone leaves except for Harrier and Stork)
Me: (sighs) About time they left. Now that they're gone, I can finish my note from above. Yes, I've been a bad girl, but ugh, so much has happened! There is much more than the reasons I gave, but I won't waste your time.
I decided to put in the other characters in my author notes for two reasons. One, I wanted to add some humor to the story. When I read my other chapters, I sound so boring, so I wanted to make things seem like I wasn't so lame. Second, I'm going insane and talking to cartoon characters calms me down.
Anyways, I would like to thank DevilsAngelSaphire for allowing me to use her terra for this chapter. I hope I portrayed your terra well enough and that you mind the OCs. You totally rock girl! The rest of you must read her stories; she's got mad writing skills!
Hopefully I still have some readers out there, so please feel free to leave a review! And remember, you get to decide what happens to me; if I don't get some good feedback, then things will happen to me, and they won't be good...
Oh, and happy mothers day! Don't forget to spend the day caring and appreciating your lovely mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and any other mother figures you have. Of course, we all should do that every single day; that goes for the rest of the family as well!
Take care everyone.