Chapter Thirty Eight
It was a scene of barely controlled chaos.
People were running every which way, packing supplies. Sentinels and Marines were busy coordinating the transport of weapons and personnel through Heaven Gates. Goddesses were frantically speaking to the Pentagon, trying to get the planetary wide communication system online. Clash was getting his small commando unit mobilizes, telling them to meet them at the battlefield.
The reason they were in such a hectic state was because of the fact they were heading for west coast of Mexico, to the ancient temple. The Mexican Government, understanding full well what was at stake here, had unanimously approved their request, and had even offered them a few thousand of their own soldiers to augment the defense. An offer that had been eagerly accepted.
What was more, the UN had put together a task force from over fourteen different countries, and sent them towards the U.S. southern neighbor. They were doing everything they possibly could do in a situation such as this.
Gaia just stood there, watching the future die a very slow death before her very eyes.
Since the creation of Earth, she had protected the world's environment from both natural and manmade disasters. Every generation of Planeteers had successfully managed to delay Earth's destruction without Captain Planet's assistance. And with the latest group of Planeteers, she was even prouder than before. They had pulled off the impossible where others would have failed.
But now, they faced a foe that couldn't be defeated by merely conviction and a lucky shot. This wasn't a foe that was just trying to destroy the environment, or try and drive a species into extinction. This foe was trying to kill them, and he wouldn't stop until he had successfully done so, or they managed to kill him. And if that wasn't enough, there was also the Sunak to contend with. The time of their invasion was now only two days away, and the fleet in orbit was still trying to come up with a suitable strategy for taking on superior numbers and unfamiliar tactics.
She forcibly reminded herself that Wheeler and Linka were out there, most likely still going through their trial. If anyone could stop Sakar, it was them. So long as they still lived, she had hope.
"Gaia? We're heading out."
The Spirit turned around, meeting George's sympathetic gaze, and nodded. The time for teaching and preparation was over. "Well then, let's do this," she said, steeling herself for what could be Earth's last stand.
Or it could be a new chapter in humanity's growth as a race. She was fervently praying for the later.
Pocket dimension
"This is not what I was expecting," Linka grumbled, wiping sweat from her face before it could into her eyes. "If I had known we were going to be in the middle of a sauna, I would have packed a bathing suit, or some sunscreen."
Of course, the two Planeteers were not in the middle of a sauna, unless the sauna also doubled as a burning desert. If they had ever been to other worlds, they would have been able to compare the heat to Vulcan. It was that hot.
They had managed to emerge from the cave within a few short hours, only to find themselves within the blistering hot desert they were currently walking across. Linka's ring helped elevate some of the heat, though not by much. The fact that their bodies were operating a dozen times more efficiently certainly helped as well.
But Trainees, unlike Guardians, had limits. And the two of them were fast approaching theirs. They had drunk the last of the water several hours ago, and knew they had to find some soon. Otherwise, they were going to wish they were still at home, with indoor plumbing and an ocean to swim in.
"How long do you think we've walked?" Wheeler finally asked, pulling his shirt off as he did so. Due to the lack of a predictable sunrise and sunset, they had quickly lost track of time.
The Wind Planeteer shrugged, at a loss, while she tried not to stare. Despite their newly forming relationship, she was still a little shy when it came to showing her emotions, especially now that her boyfriend was now shirtless. "Probably four days," she replied, wishing she could do the same. "Our watches are not very helpful in this place." She glared at the object in question, as if her displeasure would be enough to make that little fact change. "In fact, I think they have stopped altogether."
Which didn't help their situation any. They knew the Sunak would attack within the week, but they didn't know how much time they had left before then. They didn't know if Sakar had returned from wherever he had gone, and they certainly didn't know if their friends were still alive. A lot of unknowns, and there was no time to rectify them.
His gaze swept the desert, and blinked, when he caught sight of something. "Hey, look over there," he said, pointing ahead. "I think we've just gotten our wish."
Linka's own eyes swept the area in question, a small smile forming on her lips. "Da, I think you are right, Yankee. But, what if it is a trap… or a mirage, for that matter?"
"What if it isn't? We won't know until we take a look." He caught sight of her expression. "If it even looks dangerous, we'll bail. Okay, babushka?"
"Okay."
His eyes lit up with her response, even as he silently congratulated himself on having a sensible decision. He was more for going in and taking the bad guys out, not thinking of the consequences if it turned out to be the wrong decision. And, most of the time, whenever he was around Linka, he had thoughts that were definitely not family friendly. Of course, he had the feeling Katie was the same way. His parents certainly were, and not shy about it.
What he didn't know was that Linka had had many of the same thoughts concerning him. She was forever in awe of his boundless energy, of how he could lift an entire room up with his mere presence. People would follow him, simply because he was that charismatic, and that loyal. Even Gaia had been forced to admit that he was capable of far greater things, after he had managed to protect her from Zarm, all by himself. And in her darkest dreams, she wondered.
She wondered what it would feel like to have him on top of her, to feel his bare skin slide across hers, among other things. It was enough to bring a blush to her face if she thought about it too long.
Sighing quietly to herself, she started after her counterpart, knowing that such things would happen in due time. And in the middle of the most desperate quest either of them had ever been on wasn't the right time.
She just hoped they could successfully pull it off.
Hope Island
Katie hefted the automatic weapon she was presently holding, trying to keep her hands from shaking too hard. The last time she had used a weapon like this was in another realm, and she had fired rather blindly, which is always a stupid thing to do. She could've hit someone she didn't want to. Like Wheeler.
So here she was on the practice range, trying to work up her resolve to actually fire at something, without blinding herself first. She wanted to help. She didn't want to stay here, completely useless to the world while everyone else fought.
Now if only she could keep her hands steady…
"You're thinking too much about it."
The young woman almost leaped out of her skin at the sudden voice, barely restraining the urge to turn around while the safety was off. "Amara, not a good idea to sneak up on someone holding a deadly weapon, while they're shaking like a leaf," she replied quickly, putting the safety back on before turning around. "It'll prove hazardous to your long term health."
Amara nodded, taking a step back. "You didn't whirl around and start shooting, so you've got plenty of self control. I'd say you wouldn't have shot me. You just don't have confidence."
"Difficult to, when you're holding something that usually used to kill people."
"So why are you holding it?"
"Because I'm Wheeler's sister," she replied. "Those Agents are going to come after me no matter what happens. I might as well fight them in Mexico before they come after me or Mom."
Amara could understand that. Family was the most important thing in the world. It made her wish that she still had some to turn to. Some that she could actually be proud of, or would be proud of her. "Well, first off, you need to relax. You shoot like you're a robot, you're going to hurt yourself. Here, let me help you there."
Katie held herself still as Amara adjusted her posture, making sure that the butt of the weapon was securely pressed against her shoulder, then adjusting her aim a little. "It's easy with this kind of weapon. You just point, and let it loose. Just remember to keep it pointed at the target, and think about something relaxing. It'll help… a little."
"Relaxing thoughts. Got it." Willing to try anything, Katie quickly began thinking about any relaxing thing she could that would work. Laying out in the park, taking a nice soak in a spa, playing with her neighbor's dog. Simple, everyday things.
Apparently, it worked somewhat. Her shaking had become less noticeable, her aim steadier. Taking a breath, she disengaged the safety, took aim, and pulled the trigger briefly.
Amara waited for the echoes of the four shots to fade away, before heading over to the target spot. "Not too shabby," she said, smirking. "You actually managed to hit the paper."
"Ha, ha, ha." Katie replied, managing a smile. "At least I actually hit something. And how did you know? I mean, you can't be much older than I am."
"Well, according to Michelle, I'm a reborn warrior from the Silver Millennium… whatever that means, and can master any weapon easily. Colonel O'Neill showed me the basics on how to use a gun, and I figured out the rest." Amara smiled. "I've been spending a whole lot of time here, trying to improve my aim."
The other girl nodded. "Well, I'm going to have to do that when we get there. I just wanted to get used to it before we go. Anything else?"
"The last groups are being transported there. Gaia told me you would be here, so I came to talk to you. Are you up for this?"
"Do we have a choice? Well then, let's get going, then." Making sure the safety was back on, Katie started for the main buildings, praying that her brother would soon return. She had already lost her dad, and almost lost her mom.
She didn't want to lose her brother for a second time.
Deep Space
'The Scimitar lives up to its namesake,' Bre-tac found himself musing, a very human shudder going through his frame. It looked nothing less than a weapon, and one that was ready to be used.
The Scimitar was, at this point of time, the only vessel of its kind. Every officer who was promoted to Fleet Admiral had their own customized vessel constructed for them. When they retired or were killed, if the vessel proved to be incredibly effective, they would then name the vessel class after them, and begin mass production. This particular ship was a warship, and from he had gathered, nothing else.
Bre-tac didn't like that one bit. Even the Goa'uld vessels had science departments to study any new life they found. They had people trained in diplomacy, if for no other reason than to trick those they were negotiating with. To have a ship dedicated to nothing else but war… it meant the person in command wanted conflict, wanted bloodshed. It was a weapon meant to be used.
It wasn't a person you wanted in peacetime. It was someone you kept at arms length. But in wartime… this was the person you wanted if you wanted results.
Unfortunately, it would also make it rather difficult for them to persuade him to halt his invasion. All that could be done was hope that he was someone who only preferred bloodshed when he had no other choice.
Zephyer walked right next to him, his walk as formal and assured as any military officer throughout the cosmos. Having someone who had met the spirits up close and personal was also a double edged sword. There was a good chance that he could tip the scales in Earth's favor, but there was also a good chance that it would only fuel the Sunak's desire for revenge, and make the lieutenant a disgrace in the eyes of his people and his nation.
As if sensing his thoughts, Zephyer turned to him. "We must have hope," he said. "If he can be swayed to aide Earth as opposed to destroying it, then we must take that chance."
"What of Karken?"
"He is bound by his oaths as a commander not to intervene, to follow his orders to the letter, no matter how much he may disagree with them. As a lieutenant, I have some leeway when it comes to changing a Fleet Admiral's mind on letting an attack go forward."
"Because if you fail, you may simply be reprimanded."
"Exactly."
That was an enlightening look into the command hierarchy of the Confederation. It seems that, while being in command of a ship granted one immeasurable power, it also shackled them to their commanding officers. Quite different from the Tauri, where if an officer found a set of orders to their disliking, they could argue about it, even if it was behind closed doors. They could even disobey those orders if a better way presented itself. And more to the fact, it was definitely different from the Goa'uld. First Primes, who were expected to obey their 'God's' every command without question.
He decided that the galaxy could learn something from his human allies about military protocol.
He stopped in front of a set of doors, mentally preparing himself for the coming confrontation. And confrontation it would be. "Is there anything I should know?" he asked.
Zephyer nodded. "His race values honesty above all else," he replied. "So long as you stick to the truth, he will listen."
That was more than enough for the Jaffa warrior, and he turned his attention back to the doors, waiting for them to open. And readied himself for war.
Stargate Command
Fraiser rubbed her head as she made her way over to her desk, sinking into it. Very rarely did she have to perform triage in her own Infirmary, but having over forty people to work on was one of those times. At least this time, she had a whole lot of help. A M*A*S*H unit's worth.
But now the last of the patients were resting comfortably, their bodies beginning the slow recovery pace. Potter and the other surgeons were all busy cleaning up. Sam was on the phone with the Pentagon, checking on the status of the planetary communication array. O'Neill and Teal'c were discussing strategy with Hammond, while Daniel was busy finishing up some ancient translations. With a little luck, they would have a few hours of rest.
Unfortunately, it also meant that she would have time to think about the mission that was forced upon her.
"Thought you saw the end of this? People from other realms needing your help?"
The SGC CMO started a little, before looking up, catching sight of Hawkeye's grin as he sat down next to her. "I don't know what you're talking about," she replied, very confused.
"I figured a Trainee would be used to this type of trouble."
"Oh, that." Frasier sighed. "It's been a little over twenty years, Captain. I thought I had put all of this behind me… until James and Lily Potter came back from the dead."
"One final mission."
"The completion of my trial, apparently. I need to finish what I started."
Hawkeye understood that somewhat. "You have to kill somebody, don't you?"
She nodded. "The being who killed my counterpart, in fact."
"Gotta suck."
"Not so much, considering the fact the bastard pretty much threatened my little girl."
"Ah."
"The problem is that I am a Air Force Major, and if I go through with this… personal vendetta, I'll be placing my career in jeopardy, not to mention running the risk that I'll make Cassie an orphan again. I can't do that."
"But you have no choice," Hawkeye supplied. "As a Trainee, regardless of what you want, you're answerable to the Guardians. You have to follow orders."
Fraiser nodded, not surprised by his knowledge. As a warrior of Dreamscape, he was familiar with Guardian practices and laws. He had to be, if only to avoid them.
Sighing, she leaned back, rubbing her eyes. She had forgotten that she still had limits, even though it took a while. She was rapidly approaching them. "Well, it's over, and I can at least enjoy a few hours of peace with Cassie before the next major emergency arises."
"I'm afraid not, Doctor," Hammond suddenly said from the door, startling both surgeons. From the look on his face, he was about to seriously regret saying what he had to say. "You're on the next chopper to Mexico. So are you, Captain Pierce. Sakar's army is on the move. Colonel Potter has graciously offered the services of his unit."
On the other hand, maybe her life was nothing more than one big emergency after another.
New Zealand
Fate was on the side of those who seized it.
It was a lesson drilled into the minds of every single Agent serving the Death Dealer; that destiny had always been theirs and theirs alone. All they had to do was take it into their hands, and mold it to serve their purpose.
And now, ten thousand of them were doing just that.
It was an army forged over the course of a thousand years, created for only one purpose; to destroy the world. Men from the Dark Ages to modern time had been turned, frozen in a moment of time, only to be revived when the Deadly Alliance had been formed. A full scale attack on all of the Big Ten was soon to be in full effect, and they would be part of that victory.
The army was well underway now. Their plan was simple and direct; to create a bridge across the ocean and march right through Mexico, converting every human being they came across, then create another bridge to Hope Island. If the center of the Spirit's power was taken, the Earth would be greatly weakened. The Sunak, unknowing dupes that they were, would be able to finish the job of destroying the planet most efficiently, thus plunging Realm 2 into darkness forever. It was a simple plan.
However, no plan ever went off without a hitch, as Smith knew very well. The Enterprise's appearance, the arrival of the Potters into the fray, and most recently, Chaos's defeat at the hands of Sailor Moon and Shayera Hall, had forced them to alter their strategies somewhat. As his spies had stated, their course would take them past an old Aztec shrine, located near the shoreline. If one of their enemies managed to calculate their trajectory, there could be a sizable opposition waiting for them. They would have to deal with them before they moved on.
On the plus side, the Keeper of Fire and Wind were still off the radar, which meant they were still on their journey. They wouldn't be on it forever, which made achieving victory all the more important.
He knew this, and so began to come up with an alternate plan. One that none of them would see coming.
Blight smiled as her power swelled all the more. It had been so long since she felt anything less than a mere flicker of her strength move through her veins. A pity her sister was no longer among the living to witness the last days of Earth's existence, or her own restoration to full power. It was always nice to have a knowledgeable audience.
Her sister… she hadn't thought of goody two shoes Bambi Blight since she tried to stop that environmental movie several years ago. She had had MAL locate her four months after that to end her, which he had done with relish, though they had never found the body. She had never understood her. Why would she give up her position as Spirit of Life to live as a mortal? To keep balance? If that was the case, then they really needed to fire her handler. There was no such thing as balance. There was good, and there was evil, and there were the pawns in between. Nothing more, nothing less. No harmony, just chaos. Destruction.
She watched as Hope Island's population began to disappear slowly, and smirked. They would leave a skeleton staff to look over the refugees that remained, while they went to fight Sakar's army. Didn't they realize it was hopeless stop the Death Dealer? Without the Fire and Wind Eco freaks, they would never win. He was just that determined, that powerful.
Her only regret was that she wouldn't finish Lilith Sloane off herself. She never liked to leave things unfinished. Especially since Lilith Sloane had cost her several contracts and physically beat her to a pulp. Still, hearing about it after Sakar destroyed her would be a pleasant replacement.
Knowing that all of them would be taken care of, she stood up, making her way to her new lab. She had a new creation that she had just finished, and she wanted to test it out. If it held up to the rigors of field work, she would begin mass producing them.
And wouldn't you know, the Planeteers of Fire and Wind had unknowingly volunteered to be the test subjects.
Pocket Dimension
Well, on one hand, Linka was pleased to admit that she was wrong. It wasn't a trap, or a mirage. On the other hand, it did open up whole new avenues of questions.
Initially, it was exactly as it appeared from a distance; a small village straight out of the Middle Ages, out in the middle of nowhere, and complete with a small population. And, like most villages located in the middle of a desert, it was located near an oasis.
But now that they had gotten closer, and as the sky darkened with approaching night, they quickly noticed a few differences. The first was the fact that the inhabitants were all armed to the teeth. They were also very fast. By the time Wheeler and Linka had come within a few dozen feet of their home, they had been quickly surrounded by two dozen warriors, spears within half an inch of their faces.
The second thing was that they were all staring at them, like they had never seen actually people before. Which, considering the relative isolation they seemed to be in, that was a distinct possibility. After all, they were most likely the only settlement within the pocket realm.
The third thing was that they weren't human, unless humans suddenly had pointed ears and reddish skin.
Wheeler stepped forward, knowing that his bloodline had run across them before, but he didn't know where. If they were in a desert, then it was probably during the decline of the Byzantine Empire. He quickly showed them his crest, letting them take a good look at it. "I don't know the proper ceremony for contact, and I don't know who you are, but we are the Keepers of Fore and Wind," he said slowly. "And we have no time for proper greetings. We require your help in a matter of the greatest importance."
The warriors didn't move one bit, their spears not wavering in the slightest. Linka started to worry that this was a bad idea, and if fighting back would be the correct decision. Would a blast from her ring even be effective in this world?
Suddenly, as if from a mental command, the elves parted like a wave, allowing an elderly man to approach them. Both of them stayed perfectly still, though Linka pulled her crest out. No sense in taking chances.
The elder looked their crests over very thoroughly before gesturing for them to raise their ring hands. They quickly did so, letting him take a look at their rings. After a moment, he made a near invisible gesture. Almost immediately, the guards lowered their weapons, relaxing, some of them even smiling a little.
Wheeler smiled gratefully, bowing to the elder, who returned it. He turned to his girlfriend, catching sight of how tense she was. "See, Linka. Everything's all right."
"Yes, but there are many questions I would like answered," Linka replied, finally releasing the breath she had been holding in relief. "Who these people are would be a good start."
"I was having the same thought." He grabbed her hand before she could pull back, grinning outright. "Well, come on. We're going to need food and water, while we figure out whether or not they can speak English."
She looked at their enjoined hands, thought about saying something, then decided against it. It felt nice. Besides, she was certain that holding hands was among the things couples did in public.
And she wanted to do that, and so much more
As it turned out, the elves could speak English very well, though it was a rather archaic form. They were in fact descended from a group of elves that had lived near Camelot when it existed. They had been allied with the Sloane bloodline for a thousand years, waiting for the day when their descendants came to claim the power that was there's by right.
Now, as Wheeler and Linka enjoyed a good meal and some cool wine, they understood why.
"Tis was an ancient pact that we had made with thy ancestors," the elder explained, sitting Indian style on a large pillow before them. "Sir Joseph of Sloane protected our home during the time of King Arthur from Mordred and his hordes. In gratitude, we promised to aide thy family when thou came to claim the power that is yours."
"So when he died, Merlin and Serenity created this pocket realm for you," Linka said, putting the pieces together. "It allows you to keep your promise, while at the same time protecting you from Sakar's wrath."
"But because of Sakar's actions, we have a rather small window of opportunity to achieve it," Wheeler added, his gaze darkening a little in anger. "Somehow, a representative of this Deadly Alliance managed to coerce the Sunak into launching a full scale attack against Earth, making them think that we're a threat to them." He shook his head. "Simple, but brilliant."
"Tis truly disturbing. The Death Dealer is truly a monster."
"And more, I can assure you." Sighing, the Fire Planeteer set his glass down. "Honored Elder, can you tell us about my ancestors? About the first keepers of these rings?"
"I would like to know about them myself," Linka added, curious as to how Wheeler's family really started.
The Elder smiled slightly, standing up. "Tis a story that shall have to wait until tomorrow," he said. "Both of thee need thy rest before thou continue on thy quest."
Both Trainees bowed their heads respectfully before rising, heading out into the night air. A younger elf gestured them to follow him, which they did. He led them to a house near the oasis, smiling. "The maidens have drawn water for you to bathe with," he said, bowing. "Sleep well, Milord, Milady. No harm shall befall thee whilst here."
"Thank you," Linka stated, taking a look around at the room. It looked homely enough, with a bed in one corner and those pillows they had used in the Elder's house. A large tub had also been set up, and was filled with warm water. It looked a hot tub without all of the attachments.
Wheeler frowned thoughtfully. "You know, I don't think they gave us enough water to take separate bathes."
"I have noticed, Yankee," Linka replied, blushing lightly. "They probably think we have been together intimately for years."
"Well, if you wanna get technical, we have been together for years."
"Not like this. I mean, we have kissed like… what, once?"
The Fire Planeteer grinned, shrugging. "Well, we need to wash all of this sand and sweat off, so let's steel our resolve and just get in. We do need to talk about a whole lot of things. And, just to preserve your modesty, I'll turn around so I don't see anything."
Sighing, Linka quickly turned as well, pulling her shirt off, then her bra. Quickly shimmying out of her boots, socks, shorts and panties, she was in the tub immediately, keeping her body well below the water and her eyes closed.
Wheeler had followed suite, showing remarkable restraint as he kept his gaze on her face. Things were already uncomfortable enough without him drooling over her. She was grateful for that, if a little disappointed. He had seen her in rather skimpy swimming attire, after all…
"So," she began, pulling the band holding her ponytail in place loose, shaking her hair free, "what do we need to talk about?"
Wheeler sighed, leaning his head back. He had hoped to wait for a few minutes as he got used to their situation, but he should've remembered that Linka didn't like wasting time. "Well… us, actually."
"Us?"
"Where we go from here… after all of this."
Linka frowned. As focused as they had been on trying to stop Sakar, she hadn't really given it any real thought. But now that she did think about it, she realized that she didn't need to. It had taken her a whole lot of time, but she now knew that, in all the years she had known him, she had never had to even think about it. She had known from the first day. She just hadn't realized it.
Linka smiled slightly, her blush deepening. "I do not know if either of us will survive our fight with him," she said slowly, crossing her arms. "And do not remind me that I am being pessimistic. I just know enough of the world to know that death comes when you least expect it, and so do you. But… I would like to try and spend the rest of my life with you… if that is that you want."
Wheeler grinned. "That's what I've wanted for the longest time, Linka. It always has been." He twirled his finger. "Now turn around. I'll do your back."
Her smile and blush now at full bloom, the Wind Planeteer did just that, feeling his hands slide up and down her back and shoulders. She sighed a little, wondering if an impromptu massage was how Laura and Ma-Ti started. "Wheeler… what was your biological father like?" she asked after a moment, trying to take her mind off of the sensations his hands were causing.
Wheeler paused for a second in ministrations, thinking hard. Considering the fact that he last saw his father when he was nine, his memories were considerably rusty. "He was noble," he finally replied. "Kind, gentle, and always put his family first. He and Mom were completely devoted to one another. And they doted on me and Sis, always making sure to go to our school plays and helping us with our homework." His gaze shifted slightly. "He used to look at me and say…"
"My boy, one day you'll meet the woman of your dreams, fall in love, get married, and spend the better part of your adult life being teased by her," Linka supplied, a small smile starting to form. "And then your mother would slap him upside his head, as if to confirm it." She shrugged at his surprised look. "The more you talk about him, the more I remember my dreams from my childhood. I used to write all about them in my diary. And no, you cannot read about it."
"No need. I lived it. Besides, they're childhood memories. I'm pretty sure they're not hot and heavy enough for me to even think about."
Linka, without turning around, quickly splashed him with some water, giggling as she blushed. "Is sex all you think about?" she asked.
"No. Just having sex with you, and in just about every position imaginable."
"… I have no witty or scalding reply for that. That was… not surprising, but it is pleasant to know." She smirked. "If you wish to know, I have had many of the same thoughts about you.
Wheeler smiled, a little pleased that he rendered her speechless for even a second with his honesty. He was also surprised that she liked that. He figured that she would have scolded him for having such perverted thoughts. On the other hand, he was also thrown for a loop "It's not just that," he said. "I meant an actual life. House, kids… the whole works."
Now she was truly speechless. She would have never, in a million years, thought that William Sloane would want to inevitably settle down. It was truly amazing.
Her smile grew. "Yankee… that is all I could ever hope to hear from you." She leaned into him as his arms enfolded her. "I wonder… if we would ever get together in the original timeline."
"Probably, though we'd also argue a whole lot."
"Probably. We do have differing personalities."
"Not to mention the fact that we were raised in completely different environments," Wheeler added, rubbing her neck slowly. Even now, he was remembering those first days being Planeteers, and how they had both missed the signs. "You had a whole family who watched over you, despite a harsh environment. I could barely stand being in the same room as the old man, and I lived in a city that was full of crime and hatred. It took both of us a long time to accept each as more than simply Planeteers." His gaze shifted slightly. "Of course, this is a whole different can of beans."
"Da, that is true." She pulled away, turning to look at him. "My turn to wash your back. Turn around."
After a little bit of maneuvering, considering the size of the tub they were sharing, the two of them were able to change position, allowing Linka access to his back. Linka immediately took notice of a small scar on his shoulder. "Wheeler, where did you get this?" she asked, running a finger gently over it.
"When I was thirteen," he replied. "I was trying to help out a friend when we were ambushed by one of the gangs. I fought them off as well as I could, but one of them managed to stab me in the shoulder. Luckily, the guy's knife was thin, and it managed to miss hitting anything I needed for moving the arm. Unfortunately, we didn't have any medical coverage, and were just about broke so I couldn't get stitches." He grinned. "I decided that it was a badge of honor, one that I would never be ashamed of."
"Because you were helping someone."
"Big time."
Linka finished washing his back, setting the cloth aside as she continued rubbing him. "I have never seen you exercise, and I know how you eat. How do you manage to keep yourself looking so fit?"
Wheeler smirked. "Hell of a metabolism. I also swim late at night."
"Without a stitch of clothing on, yes?"
"Ah, you figured out my secret."
"Not that difficult." She smiled guiltily. "I have been watching you for the last few years. It has been a guilty pleasure of mine."
Well… that was quite the revelation. The images that brought up were quickly translated as a surge of heat, centering itself in his groin as blood began pooling down there. "Really? My, aren't you the naughty one?"
"You have rubbed off on me. Close proximity and all that."
"Apparently."
Wheeler shifted so he was looking in her direction once again, eye boring into her. "Maybe, when this is over, you can join me," he suggested.
Linka paused in thought for a moment, before suddenly moving, pressing herself against him as well as she could and kissing him hard. "I think… I would like that," she gasped when they parted. "But for now… the water is getting cold. We should get out." With that, she rose, revealing her body to him in all of its glory before grabbing a towel, and stepping out like nothing had happened.
Wheeler was understandably shocked by what his counterpart's spontaneous act. Linka had never done anything like that before. He liked it.
Maybe when this was over, they would do more than just swim. Maybe before, even. One never knew what would happen in the future. And that was how it should be.
Yggdrasil
Athena stood near the center chair, watching as Peorth barked orders to the technicians on duty, and sighed. Yggdrasil had never been so busy in the two thousand years since the Sunak home world's destruction, nor had the tension ever been so high. Then again, never before has such a battle been on the horizon. Programs were being activated that she had thought would never see the light of day. It was not what anyone who signed up for the relief offices wanted to deal with on any day.
Unbidden, her mind flashed back to her days running the mighty system, watching a young Peorth and Belldandy rapidly make their way up the ranks, the former seeing it as a rivalry. Both so young, so innocent before that fateful day in New York.
Afterwards, Belldandy took Templar training, while Peorth added system maintenance to her list of talents. Sakar, whether they met him or not, had changed both Goddesses. Peorth had wanted to be prepared for the next emergency, and Belldandy had felt an emotion that she had never wanted to feel; hatred. It wasn't how she wanted their first mission down to Earth to end.
But if not for their efforts, the Network would never have been set up, and they wouldn't have a chance at stopping the Death Dealer. And now mankind was entering the fight. If there was a chance that they could win, they would take it.
But mankind should have never been forced into this contest in the first place. She should have dealt with him when he first rebelled, but the Council had assured her that the sentinels could contain him. All they needed was a little time.
It had taken the destruction of the Sunak home world for them to change their tune about the whole situation. And by the time they figured out what he was doing, it was too late. He had grown too powerful for most of them to fight head on… until Belldandy faced him in New York.
Then there was the Prophecy concerning Fire and Wind to take into consideration. She believed in that with every ounce of her immortal being, and had spent the better part of a thousand years waiting for the day when it would come true. And now that day was fast approaching. She couldn't help but feel a little… nervous about it. What would they become, once they had completed their task? And what would she do after this? She had waged war against Sakar for so long, she couldn't think of herself doing anything else. The Death Dealer had defined her very existence.
So caught was she in her musings, she almost didn't hear Peorth come up to her. "Athena?" she asked, getting the older Goddesses attention. "Yggdrasil is about as ready as it'll ever be. We should probably get back down to the Earth."
Athena nodded, steeling herself. What she would be doing after Sakar was defeated would have to wait. Defeating him and his minions had to come first. The sheer enormity of it threatened to envelop her. "To think, a mere millennium of war had passed before the day finally came. A chance to stop the Rogue once and for all."
Peorth sighed, shaking her head. "Athena, if we're going to stop him, we have to do it now, instead of waiting for some prophecy to be fulfilled."
"But sometimes, Peorth, waiting for a prophecy to be fulfilled is the only way to win. Our actions are what make it possible. After all, none of us have the strength to defeat him, even combined." The elder Goddess pinned her former apprentice with a powerful stare. "You above all should know that."
With those words, she made for her gateway, leaving the Yggdrasil head standing there, thinking.
Earth Orbit,
For a ship that was preparing to go after the Sunak fleet alone, it was eerily quiet on the bridge. And it was driving Malcolm crazy.
He wasn't used to this kind of silence on the bridge. Travis was usually either giving them a status report, or telling them a story about his family's journeys. Hoshi was usually going over translations with T-Pol, and Archer and Trip, whenever they were both on the bridge at the same time, would be bantering. Every once in a while, he would join one of their conversations. Even the Xindi crisis had had more noise.
But right now, it was just too quiet. In fact, the only one aside from himself that was on the bridge was Travis, and he was busy correlating with Thor.
"I've got something for you to look at."
The Chief of Security breathed out in relief as Ex joined him at his station, carrying one of the Enterprise portable memory rods. She had probably downloaded one of Yggdrasil's files and adapted it to work in their computer system. And her mere presence was soothing. "Alright, what did you want to show me?"
"Well, this is everything I could find on the Sunak and their customs. You know, on the off chance that we have to play by their rules." She smiled. "Want to join me in your tactical room to look it over?"
The Lieutenant returned her smiled. "If that is all, I would love to." Of course, he knew that couples throughout history had done risky things by having sex in office buildings and restricted sections of ships, but he was far more disciplined that that. So was Ex… he hoped.
His faith in her was well placed as they entered the Tactical Room, and she slid the memory rod into a slot, downloading the file into the computer. "Okay, the Sunak have various customs and rituals when contending with those not a part of their confederation. Diplomatic procedures with potential allies or enemies tend to be on the ritualistic side, like honor battles or rite of passages. In our case, we'll focus on the ones involving potential enemies." She brought the file in question and began scrolling down, skimming each one briefly. With each one, her scowl grew slightly. Apparently, there was nothing that really fit into their particular problem.
Malcolm, who was doing the same thing, suddenly stiffened slightly as one of them caught his eye. "Wait. Go back one. I think I saw something that could help."
Ex did so, looking at it again. His eyes widened. "This is a challenge in case there is a threat to a world that hasn't threatened the Confederation," she said sadly. "The Sunak would laugh at it, saying that the spirits and humanity represent a threat to them."
"I got that feeling… but there are others in this alliance, remember. Goddesses, Jaffa… a Narnian Queen."
"… Susan the Gentle."
"We can make the case that Narnia, being connected to Earth, is in danger of being annihilated by their actions, and thus dishonors the Confederation. Susan might just be able to invoke that challenge."
Ex could almost see the wheels in Malcolm's head turning, and frowned. "Are you thinking what I think you're thinking?"
Malcolm nodded, pulling his communicator out. "I think the Queen is about to have her first deep space mission," he said.
Susan looked around as she stepped off the Enterprise transporter pad, her eyes wide with surprise. Despite the half a century that she had lived, despite everything she had seen and done in that life, being on a starship was quite a new thing for her.
Archer stepped off the pad, grinning as she took in everything. He remembered the day he got his first look at his finished ship, feeling the same wonder and awe, knowing that she would be doing incredible things, and not believing that she was real. He just wished that his father had been there to see it, to witness his dream fly out of drydock for the first time.
Susan's awe was the fact that she had never been aboard a starship before. It would most likely prove to be quite the life changer for her, as if she hadn't had enough of those.
Archer smiled, gesturing around. "Welcome aboard the Enterprise, your Highness," he said.
"Wow," was all she said, looking at the transporter controls without actually touching them. "This, teleporting ability… can actually transfer us from the planet to your ship. But what about the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle?"
"It's not a perfect piece of tech, though it's a whole lot better than it was twenty years back," he replied. "I'm no matter engineer, but somehow, the Starfleet Corp of Engineers was able to create a Heisenberg Compensator. I think it forces every cell in our body to become still a split second before transport, allowing sensors to map them for reconstitution at the transport site."
"Well… the only way I can get to places other than Earth is through a wardrobe. And that does tend to get embarrassing if you're caught by one of the maids." She looked up again. "Is the rest of your ship as impressive as this?"
"Well, I'll have someone give you a tour of the ship later on. Right now, I can show you the briefing room, considering that's where we need to go."
Susan smiled, nodding to the transporter chief. "Already, this day is turning out to be different from what I was expecting." Her eyes lit up with childlike gleam. "I got beamed up!" she almost shouted.
Archer shook his head, his amusement shifting to exasperation. More of that Star Trek, no doubt.
About ten minutes later, the wonder in Susan's eyes dissipated after Malcolm and Ex told her the situation as it stood. It was very informative.
"So let me see if I get this straight," she said. "Because the Earth is threatened, you think that by association, Narnia is also in danger."
Malcolm nodded. "Pretty much."
"How are they going to attack Narnia? Only a select few can go there in the first place."
"The Sunak possess dimensional drive," Ex explained. "It would be a simple matter for them to match their shield resonance with Narnia, and slip a fleet in without much trouble."
"Except they would have to get by Aslan first," she reminded him. "He's not a tame lion, but he's also not a weak one either. He's the god of Narnia, after all."
"Their Klasef may be able to even the battlefield."
"Not enough."
"They may not need to try a dimensional jump," Archer stated. "If they're using some sort of advanced weapon that can destroy a whole planet, then some of that energy could transmit through your wardrobe into Narnia."
Susan scoffed. "I doubt that there is a weapon like that, even in a civilization that can travel across the galaxy and beyond."
Malcolm coughed, getting their attention. "There is one kind of radiation that can do that," he said carefully, barely stopping a shudder from running down his spine. "But it's only theoretical, and research on it is banned on Earth. No civilization in our galaxy has the capability of even creating it at this time. But… the Sunak may be able to."
"What is it?" Archer asked, a sense of foreboding filling him. Malcolm was someone who kept his emotions tightly in check. If this was something that could make him nearly lose that control…
"Thalaron."
Ex looked at him, shocked beyond measure. That was something that was completely outside the realm of rational thinking. "The Sunak wouldn't!"
"If they think the threat is big enough, they might."
"Lieutenant, what is thalaron?" Susan asked, exasperated.
Archer stepped closer, remembering that Susan wasn't from the United Earth government. "Miss Pevensie, thalaron is a type of radiation that is capable of destroying biological matter at the molecular level. It's banned on earth because of its biogenic properties. If it's weaponized, it could theoretically expand almost without limit. It could encompass a ship, a planet, even an entire solar system. If the theory is correct, there is no defense for it."
"Which means that the fleet here, with shields at full strength, are still vulnerable," Susan elaborated, a knot now forming in her gut.
Ex nodded sadly. "I'm afraid so."
The Queen's attention shifted to Archer. She had all of the information she needed, and it wasn't pretty picture it painted. "When are we leaving, again?" she asked.
"Immediately," Archer replied.
"Well, what are you waiting for? We have two worlds to save."
Pocket dimension
Linka shifted slightly, trying to ignore the strangeness of her sleeping situation.
It wasn't the bed that she lay on, though she had never slept on suck a comfortable mattress before. That was definitely different, but a pleasant kind of different. It felt good.
It wasn't her sleeping companion next to her, as he wasn't on the same pad as her. He was close though, breathing in and out as he slept, or pretended to sleep. She couldn't tell the difference at this time. His proximity was wreaking havoc on her senses.
No, what was strange, at least for her, was the fact that she was completely naked on the bed, and without a sheet covering her. Probably part of the reason as to why she was facing away from her counterpart, as he was also uncovered.
She had wanted to know why they weren't getting their clothes back. The lady elf who had taken them to be cleaned told them that they weren't dry yet, and probably wouldn't be until morning. Not only that, but when the Wind Planeteer asked her for some sleeping garments, or even a sheet for that matter, she had told them rather cheerfully that everyone here slept in the nude.
Linka, who had never even thought of sleeping in the nude before in her life, found it to be something she wanted to get used to. Now, if only she could actually go to sleep…
Deciding that she was too wired to sleep at the moment, she slowly got off of the pad, hoping not to disturb her love. She needed some space to think, without anyone seeing her. Unfortunately, she couldn't really leave the hut, as that wouldn't be proper.
Looking out the window, she noticed how the stars were out in full force, not blocked by light pollution from distant cities. The air was cool but not too cool, which felt perfect on her skin. Smiling slightly, she focused on what else she could see.
She promptly blushed when she saw two elves presently in the middle of a rather intimate encounter. In short, the female was riding the male's member like he was a carnival ride. What made it so shocking to her was the fact that they were doing it out in the open, where anyone could see them. Which, she suspected, was the point of doing it outside. It was the thrill of getting caught, of being seen.
She wanted to turn away, leave them their privacy, but a part of her found it impossible to do just that. She found the display to be… arousing, unlike anything she had ever seen before in her life.
"I guess you've never given thought to being a voyeur before," Wheeler said from behind her, catching the young woman by surprise. "I mean, in Russia, it's not a very smart idea, considering the weather."
"You guessed right, Yankee," she replied softly, turning her gaze back to the scene happening outside while crossing her arms over her breasts. Partly because of the weather and partly because of who she was. She had lived a rather sheltered life, only dreaming of seeing the world and its wonders. But now, this was yet another part of that world that she was seeing, and she had discovered that she wasn't disgusted in the slightest. "I did not want to wake you."
"You didn't. Seriously, you didn't. I was having a hard time falling asleep myself." He grinned sheepishly. "First time I've ever had a hot naked babe sleeping right next to me... for any reason."
Linka's light blush deepened at his words, and she was inordinately pleased as well. No one had ever said anything like that before to her. And he had just given her another nugget of information. "You think… I am hot?"
"Extremely." He wanted to touch her, but didn't think it was a good idea. She had just gotten used to the idea of being in a relationship with him, and he didn't want to push her into something she wasn't ready for. "Why? You don't think so?"
"Just… not by anyone who really meant it." She sighed. "All they see is what is on the outside. They do not want to see what is on the inside. All they want is…"
"Someone with a hot pair of legs and a set of tits?"
"Accurate, if a little vulgar."
Wheeler chuckled. "Some people just want eye candy, Babushka. The woman draws more attention to them. They don't really care about brains, or whatever talents they may have." His eyes twitched, as if they wanted to roam downwards, but were resolutely staying north of the border. "That was how I was when we first met. Remember?"
"Da, I remember that day well." She certainly remembered thinking that he was very handsome, in a somewhat unkempt manner. She also initially thought that he was a chauvinistic capitalistic pig, but hadn't said it aloud. It had been when they had gotten their rings, after all. They had known next to nothing about one another, and he had opted not to saying anything particularly crude towards her. "First impressions have a way of defining relationships with others, do they not?"
"They do indeed. But, time has a way of changing those perspectives, don't they?"
Linka nodded, smiling. "Slowly, but they do. And we learn a few things about ourselves in the process." She gestured out the window. "For starters, I did not think that I would be a closet voyeur."
"And an exhibitionist? I mean, we are standing in front of a window, completely naked."
"That too. I am surprised that I did not move away from the window immediately."
"How does it feel?"
Linka frowned thoughtfully for a moment, analyzing the situation for a moment. "I… like it," she finally said. "It is… different… new."
Wheeler nodded, though her back was still to him. He knew that she was thinking, even though she had yet to turn around. She was an intelligent young woman. "Anything else? Don't think about it. Just feel it." He smiled as he moved in a little closer, gently placing a hand on her shoulder, and nothing else. "Listen to your body," he whispered. "Listen to what it's telling you."
It was a simple request, and she decided to follow it. So, she did something she wasn't accustomed to; she stopped thinking, letting herself simply feel. As she did, she became aware of a few things. The wind blowing lightly through the window against her skin was far more erotic now than it was a few minutes ago. Despite only his hand being on her shoulder, the heat of it sent very pleasant tingles shooting through her body. "It is… very arousing," she murmured, a small smile of her own emerging.
"Have you ever… simply just let yourself go?" he asked, placing his other hand on her shoulder. "Let yourself live in the immediate moment, and go wherever it takes you?"
Her hands slid over to her breasts, slowly stroking them as his words flowed over her. Her gaze never moved from the couple outside as they continued their little tryst. "Nyet."
"Why?"
"… It keeps me safe."
"It did… but life isn't worth living without some risk. Loving someone is a great risk, but it's also a great reward." Wheeler rubbed her shoulders as he stepped closer. "Of course, that's just Mom talking," he added. "Usually, she's right."
Linka felt Wheeler's arousal pressing against her backside, but she didn't shy away from it. After all, she was watching another couple having sex while stroking her own perky breasts. She was starting to accept what was going on.
Suddenly, she turned around so she faced him, her breath coming out in gasps. She looked up into his eyes, saw the desire burning in them, and blushed even further. "Wheeler…" she whispered, not looking away.
Wheeler didn't move either, didn't do anything. He just watched her, even though it was obvious that he wanted to do more… a whole lot more. "What do you want?" he asked quietly.
"… You."
Now he did something. He dragged her to him, and kissed her fiercely. She returned its intensity as their hands began roaming over each other's bodies. Soon, his mouth slid down south to her neck, nipping the soft skin softly. He hoisted her up, ready to take her back to the bed.
"No… right here," Linka gasped. "Right here at the door. I want them to see."
"Okay." Somewhat surprised, he set her down on the surprisingly strong window sill, and quickly started down her body. There was a time for teasing and savoring, and this wasn't it. And despite the fact that they were both virgins, he had read quite a bit about sex on the Internet. He knew what to do.
He just didn't think that it was possible for Linka, who had always been epitome of discipline, to have such a wild cat trapped within. He liked it.
Linka gasped as his tongue delved into her hot core, body sitting up from the pleasure as he pleasured her. But after only a few minutes of it, she dragged him up, kissing him hard. Her little hands wrapped around him as she tasted herself on his lips, stroking him gently, giggling when he jerked in surprise. "You are not the only one who has read up on this," she whispered, smirking, before hopping off the sill, kneeling down.
Wheeler gasped as her warm mouth slid down his length, hips jerking powerfully. If he died within the next few days, he was going to die a happy man. 'For someone who's never done this before, she's pretty good,' he thought hazily, fisting his hands in her hair.
It finally became too much when she chuckled. Hauling her up, he claimed her mouth before turning her around so she was facing the window, thrusting into her from behind. The brief moment of pain was quickly supplanted by the pleasure they were both feeling. She began to roll her hips in earnest, while his hands captured her firm breasts, massaging them.
To both of their surprise, they were able to hold off quite a while. They had both been ready to pop almost immediately, having imagined this for quite some time. It was made even more potent by their proximity in that little cottage.
But finally, it became too much for them both. Linka threw her head back, a rather primal cry erupting from her throat as her muscles clenched, then released in an explosion of pleasure. Her sheathe clenched, trying to draw him into her deeply. He obliged, his climax filling her with his essence.
Something powerful grew within them both, as their souls touched through this one single act. A bond being formed that transcended the physical and the emotional. It wasn't a soul bond per se, but it was pretty close.
Wheeler felt her suddenly lean against him, breathing heavily from what she had just experienced. Her muscles were still clenching as shockwaves moved through her body. He cradled her as they both came down from their high. For a while, neither one of them moved.
But finally, Wheeler finally managed to get them both up, and looked out of the tent. A small smile appeared on his face. "I think our audience appreciated it," he said.
Linka turned her head slightly, catching sight of the couple she had been watching only minutes before. They both nodded to her, still smiling, before heading back towards their home. She turned her attention back to Wheeler, smirking. "Perhaps we should get back to our own bed?" she suggested.
Wheeler grinned widely. "I was thinking the same thing," he said, picking her up.
Mexico
Gi looked outside the Geo Cruiser's window, taking in the sight of the old Aztec Temple they were going to be using as their base of operations, sighing. She rubbed her eyes slowly, trying to get the grit out of them.
Kwame looked at her for a moment before returning to his flying, somewhat concerned. The last week had pretty much been one emergency after another, none of them had gotten much sleep as a result, and it was starting to take its toll. "Are you all right?" he asked.
Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it, lack of sleep wasn't the reason for her somewhat gloomy mood, as he was about to discover. "All of the places we have to set up for our final stand, and we have to do it at an archeological site," she grumbled irritably. "I mean, hundreds of people died in this place in the past, sacrificed to their gods, and we're going to desecrate it with even more bloodshed. How far the human race has come since those days, huh?"
He nodded in understanding at that. Despite everything that had happened, the two World Wars that had almost decimated the economic base of Europe, the Cold War, mankind wasn't going to say no to bloodshed until it had warred itself to the brink of extinction, it seemed. Perhaps this was the day that it finally happened.
His gaze shifted to the ground, where shuttles and helicopters were busy landing and off loading their supplies and personnel, and rubbed his eyes. "Do we even know when the army is going to get here?" he asked. "If it is not for the rest of the day, I think you and I should get a nap in. Otherwise, we will be of no use to anyone out there." That was the truth. The adrenaline rush from the war with Galaxia had worn off several hours ago. Now they were operating on fumes and caffeine. What was worse, Shayera had been forced to leave almost as quickly as she had come, meaning other realms were also suffering from attacks. How could they stop an enemy with the ability to get to other realms, when they were having a hard time protecting their own?
Gi seemed to be having similar thoughts as she reached out, squeezing his arm in reassurance. "We'll stop them somehow," she said. "I mean, if a bunch of teenagers can turn back the core of the Deadly Alliance, we can handle one of their weaker members." She grinned. "Besides, Wheeler and Linka will be back soon, and when they get here, they're going to break Sakar over their knee."
Now that, both of them believed with all of their hearts, simply because Wheeler and Linka were two of the most stubborn and most formidable people they had ever had the honor to call friends. They could do the impossible. They would do the impossible.
It wasn't destiny. It was simple fact.
Katie could hear them talking quietly in the front seats, and shook her head, knowing that they were secretly trying to figure out how to stop the Agents when they finally clashed at that temple. They believed they could do it, they just didn't know how. And that was all.
She knew better, of course. Sakar's hatred burned brighter than their commitment, and he had passed a fraction of it to his lead Agent. Even after defeating the army, they would still have to contend with the Death Dealer himself, which would be impossible for them, now that he had Neverland's power flowing through his body. Their only chance was if her brother and Linka managed to complete their Trials. Only they had the will to match Sakar at his worst. And hopefully, the power to match it.
She looked out the window as their destination loomed closer, feeling a shudder move through her frame. There, among the ghost of those the Aztec sacrificed during their reign, they would be forced to fight something equally destructive. If they were successful, they stood a chance of stemming the tide for a few more days. If not… Fire and Wind were going to come back too late to any good to anyone. Hard to believe that destiny required a great deal from others in order for prophecies to come true.
'Wheeler, don't fail us now, big brother,' she thought, sending out a silent prayer to Heaven and all of its angels. 'We need you to succeed! And please hurry!'
Because she really didn't want to see what happened if they failed.
Ma-Ti and Laura could feel Katie's distress, and knew what it was about. They were having many of the same thoughts, and they were sure Kwame and Gi were as well. Who wouldn't, in this case?
Wheeler was as much their brother as he was hers. They had so many adventures together, braved so much peril, that they had become family. They would die for one another, while fervently hoping that the others wouldn't do so.
Now they were waiting for one of their own to complete what was most likely a very trying and dangerous trial, with the very real possibility of death. It was an all or nothing shot, possibly the biggest one in history.
'Ma-Ti, do you think they can do it?' Laura asked.
Ma-Ti didn't even think about it. 'Wheeler and Linka have been known to pull off incredible feats,' he replied confidently. 'I have no doubt that they will do so again. They just have that… blend of power, finesse, skill and luck going for them.'
'That isn't really what I asked. This is something beyond anything any of us have faced before. They're quite literally way in over their heads. It doesn't matter if they suddenly got a power boost.'
'Too true. But I have faith in them. It may be all I have, but where they are concerned, that is enough.'
Laura nodded, understanding. Ma-Ti did know the two of them better than she did. She hadn't had a whole lot of time to bond with them, considering everything that had happened.
Her gaze shifted to the window, where she caught sight of their destination growing closer. "Well, here we go," she whispered out loud. "Are we really ready for this?"
"Probably not," Katie replied. "But what choice do we have?"
That was sadly all too true. They weren't ready for this, but there was no choice.
No choice at all.
Space
The Enterprise slowly made its way past the Asgard warships Valiant and Mjollnir, getting a little distance between them and the fleet, before Archer gave the order.
He was still short one member of his senior staff, as his communication officer would remain on Earth to help with their new communication system, but he now had Trip and T-Pol back onboard, and he knew that whatever he needed done, they could do it, and so much more. And he knew that the fleet would be ready, with or without them there.
Under normal circumstances, as Cochrane postulated, going to warp while still within a solar system is rather risky. The warp energy being shot out of the warp nacelles had the potential to disrupt the natural gravitational pull of the sun, and any planet nearby. They also had to avoid any celestial bodies that could possibly prove to be a hazard to them. However, in a situation where every second counted, they had to take the risk.
The NX class ship quickly shot to Warp One shooting in the general direction of the Sunak fleet, hoping to halt a rather horrific fate for the human race. If the Sunak were willing to talk, that is.
Unaware of the small ship that quickly followed in their wake.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years. I will probably be adding to this chapter after the holiday season, but here it is. Please read and review.