Chapter 20: Coming Around

Disclaimer: I do not own Alien/Predator series or any characters and may not follow all customs and cultures found in Alien/Predator movies.

[A season later = 10 ooman years]

The season seemed to fly by fast but with work and meetings I had to attend, it seemed like a mere blink. Ever since I took the position of Clan Leader, it's duty after duty, talking about some of my members hunting without permission . . . ships that had to make an emergency stop and need supplies sent for repair and a whole bunch of c'jit (shit) that I wish could be ignored.

You signed up for this and need to see it through.

The only meetings that I never miss are ones that involved either Bad Bloods or the ooman planet. Some I had to be involved with but others are so secretive that Datho had to notify me. It's not like I wasn't permitted to attend but many have discovered how involved I am so they try to keep me out due to the frustration of seeing me. But all were the usual thing where it's a single Bad Blood that's executed or brief hunts on the ooman planet. They didn't stick there for long and rather return home as quickly as they can. Sa'iye, our informant, hasn't fund anything either. Over time, I started to feel doubt seeping in my core that I would never see Anya. She could be dead for all I know. I had to slap myself from thinking as such. Mia's voice kept me strong and without her, I would have dropped it a long time ago.

As usual, I make my daily routine and walk all over the markets to get fresh air But the busy atmosphere was too much for me. Although many Yautjas try to keep their distance from me out of respect to give me space, the crowds made my chest feel tight. The awful sounds of chatter made my head feel like someone shaking it like a bag of bones. And when I had to start wearing a red cape that all Clan Leaders wear to show their status, it began to snag under Yautja feet, making it difficult to go anywhere. Even so, I made it my spot to walk around, especially when I got to a particular vendor that sells trinkets belonging to the ooman planet. As soon as I got close enough, the male that owns the place spotted me. He had grown accustomed to my visits, figuring out when I come. He smiles, moving around the table to greet me.

"My Lord Daugo. How are you faring?"

I nodded once. "Same business as usual. What do we have here today?"

Like any salesman, he scurries behind the table and presents what he had on display. His short, grey dreadlocks almost slapped a fragile-looking object but he didn't even care to notice. I rolled my eyes mentally.

"Here's what I have so far. A small device called a CD player that plays music . . . a piece of cloth that the oomans call a blanket to keep warm. Not that you need it but would make a good display in your room."

His eyes spot something from the side and raise it so I could see. "And a beautiful necklace that would attract any female without fail."

I reached out for the small, metal piece attached by a small rope. It didn't look that impressive, only being a piece of metal refined to have an elongated oval shape. Still, it had a very close resemblance to the one I made long ago for Mia. I imagined the name Ta'kasa written on that metal and then remembering the times I held Mia in my arms. I can still feel her warmth seeping through my armor and into my skin . . . like the twin suns that shone over Yautja Prime on this particular morning. But the pain in my heart soon followed and my hand pulls away. With all the good, I hate that the bad is close behind. I barely can remember killing the ooman soldiers at the facility. All I do know is Mia's sad face and worried voice.

Mia . . . I hope you're in a better place than this.

"My Lord?"

I snapped back to reality, gazing on the male that had a concerned expression on his face. "Is everything alright?"

I took soft but short breaths, hiding the fact that I wasn't. "All is fine. I appreciate you taking the time to show me your merchandise."

I turned around before the male could vouch out more about his products. I wasn't in the mood for his speech. Salesmen . . . what do they know other than money? I kept walking towards the exit. I needed to get out before trouble starts. Little did I know that my day was far from over. My gauntlet goes off in alarm and I answer it quickly, only so I couldn't hear that annoying sound that never stops.

"Who is it?"

"It's Arkarb. I finished what you requested."

It was the call I've been waiting for. It had been only a season but it felt like an eternity. "I'll meet you at the forgery right now."

"Yes, my Lord."

I clicked the communications off and scurried off into the direction of the Dark Blade Clan building, feeling the heaviness in my chest lift and letting that small glimmer of hope I held back for so long emerge.

The forgery at our clan's building was the perfect place to have a meeting as sensitive as this one. No one would suspect anything if a forger was involved. Most likely, they will think it's to discuss designing a new weapon that will give a warrior an edge in battle. Some might be curious but they wouldn't go so low as to stalk . . . just to find out about something petty. But I made sure to check and make sure no one was following me, trying to seem like I was stretching my neck.

After going through the markets . . . pacing to the building . . . getting on the lift and waiting . . . walking through the empty space . . . I made it to the door leading to the forgery. I called out before I was even a few steps towards the door.

"Arkarb."

I heard a grunt that was not his, suspecting it was Lar'ja who was already inside. Arkarb replies. "Come in, Daugo."

I burst through without a single moment to spare. A little too eager as I almost ran into a table full of Arkarb's tools. I kept forgetting that he has a habit of leaving things unattended and unsecured so many of them clattered to the floor. I caught a few, placing them gently back on the table.

"Looks like someone doesn't know how to properly come in a room."

I heard Lar'ja's sarcastic voice from my right side. I turn to see he was standing at another table next to Arkarb, dressed in his full secondary armor with the golden striped details lining his chest and gauntlets. I couldn't see any emotion on his face but I knew he was boiling inside. It took everything in me not to snap at him but experience does pay well . . . regrettably. I brushed the dirt from my shoulders and made my way over, standing on the other side. I held my chest high, showing my son that I wasn't disturbed by his comment. Now his face was showing the anger hiding underneath but all he does is clicked his mandibles. Arkarb, sensing the tension in the air, intervened.

"Daugo . . . I have finished the weapon as you requested. I apologize that it's taken so long but the materials needed were—"

"No, it's fine."

I looked down on the table and saw the weapon lying in the middle. There was no distinct difference I can see except the size was a bit smaller. Probably to accommodate the size of an ooman. I can never get used to how small they are compared to Yautjas. I picked it up, inspecting every inch of it before placing it back.

"It's more than I could ask for. It is prepared to go?"

Arkarb nods. "It's all set for the trip."

It was good news to hear, especially with no news of the Bad Bloods in such a while. After a whole season, no activity was reported that connected to our investigation. The more time passed, the more anxious I became. The only hope was that the Bad Bloods . . . or Killer Yautjas as they call themselves . . . haven't made a move on the ooman planet. So far, many hunters reported no strange activity. It was somewhat good news but not enough to relieve my conscious of the worry.

"Now all we need is someone to take it to the oomans."

Arkarb and Lar'ja turned their heads around. Their eyes widened in shock by my sudden declaration. The original plan was to send the weapon in a pod and drop it onto the ooman planet but I second-guessed it. There was no guarantee that the weapon will go to the right hands. The thought of it falling into those Stargazer oomans and their followers boiled my blood. I didn't want something that will protect them to fall into the wrong hands.

"Daugo . . . are you sure that's wise? We need permission to leave Yautja Prime and we have to report where we're going and to what purpose. If someone outside our circle would find out—"

I grunted, stopping Arkarb from continuing. "I took care of it. My brother is informed of this but won't make any report about it. He'll make sure no one finds out. But we need someone who no one would expect to go. That way . . . no one would bother to look into the matter."

With that, I slowly tilted my head until my eyes met with Lar'ja. Arkarb follows suit so all the attention was going to my son. It only took him a second to realize what I meant and it wasn't long before he acted up.

"Are you serious!? I will not go to that ridiculous planet! This is going too far!"

Lar'ja slams his hands on the table, making it tremble and almost tip over. His eyes began to glow with a burning rage, seeing that sliver of gold at the rims turn orange. My instinct as a Yautja wanted to slam his head into the table to knock some sense but I remained calm. Take it easy . . . Don't give in. He's only letting out a tantrum.

"I mean it, Lar'ja. There's no one else I can think of to take it than you."

"Why not Xen'ork!? He's been there before and no one would think to bother him!"

I slammed my own hands on the table next to Lar'ja's. I caught a glimpse of Arkarb trying to come between us but he knew better not to get in the middle of a potential fight. Plus, we're hurting his working table. I stretched my fingers out, taking some of the pressure off and getting the bad energy out of me. I kept my eyes on Lar'ja, staring straight into his burning eyes.

"You know just as well that Xen'ork can't go. He came with me a season ago. Or have you forgotten? You are the only one who hasn't gone there." I swallowed. "And you're my only hope."

I relaxed, feeling my legs shake in uncertainty. It almost sounded like I was begging but I didn't care. "If I could leave Yautja Prime, I would do this myself. But as a Leader, I cannot abandon my clan. Only you can go."

For once in the time I have known my son, I saw his fiery will break. The glow in his eyes faded slightly and the muscles in his face disappeared underneath his skin. He moves away from me, standing up on his feet. His mandibles tightened together as if he was fighting an internal struggle within himself. Finally, he sighs.

"I will do as you command . . . as Leader of the Dark Blade Clan."

His words made it sound like he was only doing a favor because he had no choice. It didn't matter. As long as he said it, I was more than happy that he complied. I pushed my upper body straight back up, removing my hands from the table.

"Good. Arkarb . . . please."

He understood and turned to grab something from behind. It was a long cloth made from fur that was as thick as a Juli'ag stag. He wraps the weapon around, molding it so that it looked like a bunch of furs instead of hiding a valuable item. He hands it to Lar'ja and he accepts it, placing an arm around it.

"Protect it with your life . . . and choose an ooman who will use it for the greater good."

Lar'ja nods softly. "I will. Not that any ooman deserves such a gift."

He walks around and towards the door but stops right as it opens. "I need to take care of one thing before I take off. It shouldn't be too long so I hope you're not going to lose your c'jit (shit) if I delay the departure."

My curiosity piqued and I tilt my head to the side. "What thing?"

Lar'ja doesn't turn nor say a word. He merely grunts as an answer before walking out of the forgery. My frustration grows and I pinched the bridge between my eyes, closing them to somehow get rid of the headache. I felt a hand pat on my shoulder.

"You shouldn't be afraid. He may be angry but Lar'ja will do as you command. Have faith."

I shrugged Arkarb's hand away. "I know. That is what I'm afraid of."

As much as I want this plan to succeed, I had little to show for myself. I was afraid of losing my son like Mia. But what choice do I have? I decided to get some fresh air once more . . . but in a place where I was alone. I walked out of the forgery without even saying goodbye to Arkarb, thinking only of the doubt that rushed through my veins . . . like ice covering a river.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A few hours went on but I haven't received news of Lar'ja's departure He was supposed to message me that he had left Yautja Prime, going to the ooman planet as scheduled. I became worried that something was wrong. All I could point to is that 'thing' Lar'ja told about at the forgery but didn't explain what it was about. It made me all the more nervous.

"You need to relax, Daugo. Twiddling your fingers won't make everything better."

I started to wonder why I called Xen'ork here in the first place. Maybe I simply wanted someone here I can vent to . . . or I thought that I would do something stupid if I didn't hear from Lar'ja in the next few hours or so. I paced back and forth in front of the meeting table while Xen'ork sat with his feet crossed on the table.

"Come on. You're going to make your shoes burn from all the walking and then we'll be in trouble. But I admit that it's keeping the place warm."

I stopped abruptly and growled at him. "How about you stop joking around? Why hasn't Lar'ja called us?"

He shrugged his shoulders. "It's your son. You expect him to move quickly when you're the one giving orders?"

I huffed in annoyance but Xen'ork was half right. My son would do anything that would annoy me but only enough that he wasn't going to get punished for. I had hoped he would be much more mature than this but I supposed he would make a last-ditch effort to change my mind about this entire plan. I'm not going to get persuaded like this. I have sworn a promise to do this. I'm not going to back down! The anger was building up again so I started my pacing again, hoping I would be exhausted enough that it will go away.

But it was cut short when the communications in the middle of the table came to life. Both Xen'ork and I rushed to the edge of the table, reaching for the panel to see it was Lar'ja. I turned it on and the first sounds we heard were static. Both Xen'ork and I looked at each other in confusion until I heard labored breathing coming through. But he sounded frantic and worn out at the same time. I called out in worry.

"Lar'ja? What's going on?"

He struggles to speak. "The Bad Bloods . . . they're . . . inside."

I raised my voice. "What do you mean 'they're inside'?"

He doesn't answer but instead, I heard shuffling of feet along with roars and growls that weren't my son's. I was shocked and confused since it sounded like he got into a fight. I spoke louder so Lar'ja could hear me.

"How do you know this, Lar'ja? What did you do?"

I heard him pant, followed by a loud bang. It was stronger than a knock on the door or a kick. It reminded me awfully of a blast from a plasma canyon. More started to follow, creating a bombardment of noise that almost broke the communications from all the static we were receiving. This isn't a mere fight!

"Lar'ja!?"

I called, a bit thankful he answered. "I . . . tracked them. Found evidence . . . of their existence and . . . what they have done. I . . . wanted to bring them . . . to you. But they . . . found me. Now . . . they're hunting me."

My heart froze in panic. Hearing all of this was too much of a shock but Xen'ork snaps me out of it, roaring into the communications.

"Where are you right now?!"

"In the lower level of the docks . . . I stole one of . . . their ships. I'm . . . heading to the ooman planet . . . with the weapon."

I shook my head in disbelief. Is he insane?!

"You need to wait! Xen'ork and I will come to help!"

"You can't . . . 'He'll' know you're . . . coming."

My eyes blinked for a few seconds in confusion. I turned to Xen'ork and he showed the same expression as I. "He?"

"Yes . . . It's Thant'oug. He's . . . one of them."

The moment I heard that pauking (fucking) piece of information, I couldn't fathom that one of our own was in league with the enemy. The last time I saw him was when he discovered Mia and me together, accusing of mating with her at the time. To think that he could . . . I know he's an asshole but he wouldn't pull a stunt like this! I was about to open my mouth to clarify until a hologram starts to appear. It was fuzzy, unable to make a clear picture until a few seconds passed. When I saw the image before me, I was taken aback. The Yautja before me was one I never have seen before. The creature was massive, standing over eleven feet at least and would put him taller than any Yautja I've ever known. Red stripes covered his chest, arms, and legs that bulked with muscles as hard as metal. But the scariest feature was when its skin began to change color and a line of hardened scales covered the rest.

I didn't recognize it as Thant'oug. This being was too big to be anyone I know. But my doubts were swept away when I saw his eyes. The same anger I saw in him before and then I remembered the red lines that the unknown Yautja had before changing. As soon as I put the puzzle together, my fists tightened in rage.

Pauk (fuck) . . .

"How can this be possible!? That can't be Thant'oug!"

Xen'ork also knew about him along with his reputation of having a temper. He was much in shock as I was, slamming his fist on the table beside me. Lar'ja's voice cracks again.

"He . . . hybridized himself . . . Changed into that . . . monster. And . . . is chasing me. He wants . . . the weapon destroyed and—"

He was cut off once more but not from the blast. I could hear him gasping in agony, growling as if trying to fight off whatever was hurting him. Something's wrong with my son . . . Something's wrong!

"Are you hurt, Lar'ja!? Answer me!"

More static cuts a bit of what Lar'ja was saying when one blast hits and another comes. But a few seconds later, I hear the hum of the engine coming to life so I realized Lar'ja was taking a ship out of whatever he was. Another gasp leaks from Lar'ja's mouth and I roared again.

"Are you hurt!?"

"No . . . but Thant'oug . . . he did something to me."

"Like what!?"

Lar'ja's breathing becomes more harsh, struggling even more than before. My demand for an answer grew. "What did he do!?"

He struggles once more. "He . . . injected me with something. Some vial he said . . . would make me . . . like him. I can feel . . . my body . . . changing."

I squinted the skin between my eyes in concentration. Injected with what?

Out of nowhere, the biggest explosion could be heard so loud that the communications alerted that there's an overload of frequency coming through. Now that it's gotten to that point, it will begin to lose connection. A fail-safe so that way any Bad Blood who attacked can't utilize the equipment for their own gain. A fool-proof plan that backfired. More blasts echoed and then I heard Lar'ja roar.

"Lar'ja!?"

"I have to go! I must see through . . . this mission . . . to the end!"

And then, the communications turn off, displaying that the connection was lost. I slammed my fists so hard that it left dents in the shape of my hands. I should have known better than my own son would pull a stunt like this, following someone who we have no idea how powerful they are. And now, he's keeping up with the Code of Honor, making sure he completes his mission . . . or dies. Pauk (fuck) you, Lar'ja! And your stubborn mind!

I slammed my fists on my table again . . . and again . . . and again. It was only when I saw drops of blood appearing on my knuckles that I stopped. I closed my eyes and concentrated on bringing my heart rate down. My mandibles hung as I let several breaths escape. I opened them and saw my blood had splattered everywhere, decorating even the chairs that were a few feet away. I turned my head to see Xen'ork standing ways back from me. I wasn't surprised. My temper is one that all Yautjas try to avoid at all costs and Xen'ork was no exception. He is fully aware that he could have been killed if he intervened so he waited until I was calm enough.

"My Lord . . . Should we go to Lar'ja's aid?"

His idea seemed tempting but I knew we can't. I pushed off the table, sighing deeply as I turned to him. "It won't help at all."

"But why?" Xen'ork comes closer but at a cautious pace. "He's being chased by the Bad Bloods we are hunting as we speak. They did something to him and he's injured. We must—"

"Enough!"

He shuts his mouth quickly, stepping back as if I slapped him. I faced him, raising my chest high. "You know as well that if we intervened, then our plans will be made public. Now that we know Thant'oug had joined the Bad Bloods, we can't be sure that everyone is to be trusted. Even one of our own has betrayed us . . . and I never trusted Thant'oug in the first place."

True . . . I never like him at all.

"But . . ."

I raised my hand fast to stop him. "But don't think that I refuse to save Lar'ja. He's my son after all and despite our differences, I care for his safety."

I watched Xen'ork's eyes drop to the ground. His dreadlocks fell over his shoulders, creating a curtain over his face. "I understand."

I huffed. "All we can do is hope that he escapes. For now, keep up in the search and look out for those who you suspect is affiliated with the Killer Yautja. But don't engage them."

I turned to Xen'ork before waving my hand. "You may go."

He hesitates for a moment, seeming like he wanted to protest. But with nothing, he bows his head and makes his wait out of the meeting room. All alone, I headed for the nearest chair that wasn't covered in blood and flopped down like I was a fish on a bank. My body was drained of energy, barely able to bend my neck back so I could look up at the ceiling. Why is this happening?

I closed my eyes and let myself drift into a small nap, hoping to escape this hellish nightmare.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Some time had passed since I heard anything from Lar'ja. My fears kept growing with each passing day but I kept strong for everyone's sake. I couldn't afford to show weakness that other Yautjas would take advantage of. With my reputation during my youth, they will gladly take advantage. I have to be strong . . . for the sake of my clan, my friends, Lar'ja and myself. Still, the burden of holding all those mixed emotions of fear, anger, and worry was taking a toll on me. All I could to ignore it was to put myself at work.

But one day . . . that all changed.

It was a busy afternoon with the markets being newly stocked and Yautjas coming to see the wonders of the universe. For someone like me, it was annoying to get through the crowds while trying to get to my clan's building for work. I managed to get to the meeting room in one piece to meet with Hakr'ouh about some business with a group of our members being sent to the wrong planet and offending another clan. It's a nasty business since there are always fingers pointing at one another so I had to come up with a solution as the leader of the offending party.

"So do you think it's wise to give all of the trophies to the Dalk'ot clan? Many of our own would feel cheated out."

"It's not their choice. The pilot in charge will be punished and it's their planet we hunted on. Regardless of what they think, it's their trophies by law. Make sure they know that."

"Yes, my Lord."

I watched Hakr'ouh sending a message through his wrist gauntlet to the Clan Leader of Dalk'ot clan. I didn't want to personally do it myself. That particular clan has a reputation for being stubborn and not willing to back down, especially their leader. Hakr'ouh finishes the message with one last click of his gauntlet.

"It's sent, my Lord."

I nodded. "Good. Now let's discuss the matter involving—"

Out of nowhere, Hakr'ouh's wrist gauntlet goes off like an alarm. From the sound, it was another message he got. That was quick.

"I didn't think they would answer right away."

But Hakr'ouh shakes his head. "It's not them."

Curious, I waited as Hakr'ouh started to read the message. It didn't take him long before he looked back to me with what it said and who it was from.

"It's from Lar'ja. He has returned safely from the ooman planet."

My eyes widened in surprise, hearing that my son was back on Yautja Prime. A small bit of joy filled my chest and my heart beats strong. It has been a long while since I felt this way but I remained stern.

"Good. Tell him to meet us here so we can hear about his mission."

"Of course . . . but the Council is dealing with him right now."

I tilted my head in confusion. Why would the Council be involved when I wasn't informed? It was quite unusual for them to act right as Lar'ja returned, not sparing a moment to deal with him.

"For what reason is my son with them?"

Hakr'ouh hesitated for only a split second but it was enough for me to know there's more to it than what is being told. I got my answer as Hakr'ouh explains.

"It's not him they are speaking to. He wasn't alone when he returned."

"Not alone?"

He nods. "He brought a female back from the ooman planet. A hybrid named Ta'kasa and from what I've been told, he's quite possessive of her."

When I heard that name and the fact that he mentioned a female hybrid, my whole body went into a shock. Ta'kasa? And a hybrid from the ooman planet? Could it be . . . Anya? Without even noticing myself, I raced to Hakr'ouh's side with such eagerness that I felt like a pup getting a new weapon from their father.

"Are you sure?"

I grabbed Hakr'ouh's shoulders and shook him a bit. He grunts and lightly pushes me back. I realized I made a fool of myself and straightened my chest armor that slid to the side of my chest. I swept my cape that wrapped itself on my leg. I took a deep breath and addressed Hakr'ouh.

"Are you certain the reports are true?"

He nods, looking back at his wrist gauntlet. "Yes. They are headed towards our clan's building. They should be here in about a few minutes."

I nodded slowly in acknowledgment. "I see. We'll wait for them here."

I turned around and walked until I was at the far end of the room. I closed my eyes and let my mind talk silently. I can't believe it. After all this time . . . I finally found her, Mia.

I could picture Mia standing right in front of me. Her blue eyes were the first to capture my sight. They sparkled with such joy and her lips move to form a smile. My heart raced in joy and I looked into the ceiling, hoping that she watching somehow. But curiosity settled in, wondering what Anya looked like. Does she have her mother's eyes? Or does she take more of the Yautja side? With dreadlocks or claws? All of this was bombarding my mind like blasts from a shoulder cannon. However, my mind was slow to process the certain sentence Hakr'ouh mentioned, talking about Lar'ja being possessive of her. Lar'ja? Over a hybrid female like that? I didn't get a chance to delve into it when I heard Hakr'ouh behind.

"My Lord?"

I cleared my throat, turning around to greet him. "What is it?"

"Are you sure that we should welcome the hybrid? "

I squinted my eyes almost closed. "What do you mean?"

"I mean . . . think about all the gossip that will come of this? We'll be the laughing stock of the entire Yautja society."

I reacted fiercely. Before Hakr'ouh knew what was coming, I grabbed the small piece of chest armor he had and tugged him closer to me. I opened my mandibles and inner mouth to let out a hiss that would have sent shivers all over a lower-ranking Yautja. For Hakr'ouh, it served as a warning.

"You don't have the authority to tell me what to do."

I slowly let go of him, watching Hakr'ouh lowered his head a bit but his eyes stay on me. "My apologies. You know I mean well and we don't know if—"

I noticed his eyes wandered past me as if he saw something right behind me. I turn around and that's when I saw Lar'ja right in front of me. He looked a bit underweight the last time he was here along with some extra cuts on his shoulders that were barely healing. His golden eyes seemed weary from travel so I could only imagine that he had a rough journey. I checked the rest of him, seeing that the weapon was nowhere in sight. Lar'ja always stays true to his word so I knew the weapon was delivered. But I'll have to talk to him privately when we have time.

But then I saw another Yautja next to him with blue stripes coloring his skin. I knew all too well that it was An'tar but I was a bit surprised that he'd come. As a tradition, both of them bowed their heads in greeting. I was about to welcome them until Hakr'ouh had to say something.

"Well Lar'ja. You have finally returned in one piece. Was the mission a success?"

Lar'ja grunted a little, clearly annoyed by this male Yautja. "It was, Hakr'ouh. You don't have to say it like that."

I could only hear a chuckle from Hakr'ouh. "I have to make sure that you did since you tend to mess things up badly. Makes some around here question your abilities."

"Pauk (fuck) you!"

"Lar'ja. That's enough."

I stopped him before he could say anymore. I expected Lar'ja to react in anger or annoyance at me. But surprisingly, he steps back and straightens. I tilted my head out of curiosity but I wanted to know more of what's going on.

"An'tar. It's a surprise to see you here. Why have you come?"

An'tar chuckles a bit but then turns his eyes behind for a moment. I tried to see if there's someone behind him but he returns.

"I was sent by the Council to bring the hybrid female that came with Lar'ja."

The room fell silent, making it a bit uncomfortable. I looked around but didn't see her anywhere. "Where is she?"

I saw An'tar's hand slip between himself and Lar'ja and then tug. Anya must be behind them then. But then, Lar'ja immediately growls and I followed to where he directed it . . . right towards An'tar. It was a disrespectful move on his part and my son would never try a stunt like that to a Successor like him. An'tar senses the tension and lets go. I grunted, gaining their attention until they finally moved to the side. Eventually, I got a view of Anya for the first time.

She had her face towards the ground so I couldn't get a clear view but from the rest of her body, she was very similar to Mia. She had long, brown hair that was devoid of any grey strand, showing that she's still very young. She was pretty petite to Yautja standards but she seemed as tall if not taller than I remembered Mia was. And as expected, she wore ooman clothing that I still don't understand how any being could wear it. The only exception was the gauntlets on her arms and a knife strapped to her hip. I realized they were the same weapons I made for Mia a long time ago. The vague memory of her wishing to give these gifts to Anya rang in my mind. It confirmed how much Anya meant to her. That is what made her so special. I wanted to see her face but she stayed low. I tried to lean my head to the side for a better view but I pulled back up when Hakr'ouh spoke.

"So this is the female? She looks so lean and barely has any muscle to her. Might as well use her for training the Unblooded."

I didn't like the tone he was using and was about to say something when Lar'ja beat me to the punch. He growled fiercely at Hakr'ouh but it was different. It didn't have any ill intent like he was just angry due to an insult . . . more like a male defending a female who he sees as a mate. It was nothing I ever would have seen in Lar'ja. Something must have happened back on the ooman planet.

It was starting to get annoying how Hakr'ouh and Lar'ja were going at each other's throats. The only thing that concerned me was how Anya was feeling. Her body posture displayed nervousness as she kept quiet and submissive. Unbeknownst to the untrained eye, I can see her body trembling. The tension between my son and Hakr'ouh was becoming too much so I decided to end it.

"Both of you must behave yourselves. This is inappropriate behavior especially from you, Hakr'ouh."

Right then, Hakr'ouh faces the Clan Leader and bows his head low. "Forgive me, Lord Daugouand."

I pushed it aside, commanding him to leave the meeting room with a swipe of my hand. He follows orders and leaves. I felt the tension disappear and hoped that Anya would relax and show her face. But when she didn't, I had a feeling that she wasn't comfortable with others being around. It took little to convince An'tar to give us privacy but Lar'ja was another matter. He hesitated, looking back at Anya but she turns her head away and seemingly angry. I asked again for him to leave and this time he follows, leaving me and Anya alone.

It was quiet and I hoped she would open up now. But she still doesn't move. Worried that she might be scared, I took steps towards her, keeping my eyes on how she was reacting while I made it down the stairs. When I was only an arm's length away, she still didn't move. She must be terrified. Gently, I grabbed her chin and she freezes. I thought about pulling away but she didn't fight back when I lifted her chin. Finally . . . after so long . . . I saw Anya's face for the first time.

And she . . . was beautiful like her mother.

Her blue eyes were the first thing that popped in my sights. The deep color of the ocean glowed with the help of the lights above. Her tan skin was a little darker than Mia's but not too noticeable. All in all . . . it was like looking into a reflection of Mia. Beautiful . . . My heart, though, stung a bit. Oh, Mia . . . I wish you were here to see her.

But then, Anya started to tremble under my fingers and I realized that I might have taken it too far. I pulled away and was about to apologize for my rudeness. However, I figured that she might not understand the Yautja language yet. So I decided to speak to her in ooman tongue. It had been a while since I spoke Mia's language but I remember enough to keep a conversation.

"My apologies. It was very rude of me to do that without your consent."

Her eyes widened in surprise immediately. "You know how to speak English?"

My eyes did the same thing. I forgot that she doesn't know anything about Mia and I but I didn't have the heart to tell her now. She barely made it on Yautja Prime and already has problems of her own. I made some terrible excuses as to why I knew the language. For ooman hunts? And you did it as a hobby? Good job.

But Anya wasn't paying much attention and seemed to drift off somewhere. I grunted to get her attention but goes back into a submissive mode, apologizing for her behavior that wasn't insulting nor even a crime. I decided to change the subject.

"It's alright. A lot must have happened since you came here. But I forget my manners as we haven't properly introduced ourselves. Normally, everyone calls me Lord Daugouand, but you can call me Daugo if you like."

It seemed to have done the trick in letting her feel relaxed. Her shoulders slumped and she no longer trembled. "It's nice to meet you. My name is Ta'kasa."

I was confused as to why she kept calling herself Ta'kasa but then I saw the necklace hanging from her. The light emphasized the carvings of that name, showing itself for all to see. Mia gave her that name . . . didn't she? Balance . . .

"But your other name is Anya, correct?"

I regretted saying it so bluntly as soon as Anya froze in shock. I scrambled to find an excuse as to why I knew that name since she seemed to have no idea who I was. Eventually, I went with my gut and let an explanation out without thinking it through.

"Sorry to surprise you like that. Lar'ja told me all of what happened back on the ooman planet on your way here. He spoke a lot about you."

But I did it again and Anya drops her head once more. Instead of fear, I could sense it was more sadness than earlier.

"What's wrong?"

She quickly recovered. "Nothing. It's just that he tells a lot about me, but he doesn't tell me about him. I only found out that he's your son from An'tar."

I dropped my eyes. I had a feeling Lar'ja would keep things to himself. He's always been like that. I looked back at her. "I know . . . My son is not the easiest person to get along. After everything he has been through."

"What do you mean?"

Now the subject was going into a sour subject and I didn't want to spend her first day here hearing my family's history along with the drama and pain it brings.

"That is best for another time. Right now, I think we should head to the healers to get you checked and then I have to stop somewhere else before showing your room that's being prepared."

Anya seemed shocked that she was getting a room for herself but I prepared for her arrival even since I left Yautja Prime. I wanted to make sure everything would be of service to her and a room for herself would give the privacy and space she needed. But I needed to get her to the healers for her sake and also for the Council. I'm sure they will want a report on her biopsy as always for every newcomer. I come to her side and made sure she followed me but I had to stop when she started rambling about certain things she shouldn't be saying out loud.

"Hold on. I have so much to tell you of what happened on Earth. The Bad Blood that I fought told me that they have plans that mean to destroy my home and—"

I stopped her quickly and she responds just as fast. "It's alright, Anya. I have already been informed, but I know you have many questions. For now, let's take it one step at a time. I will tell you later in private."

She didn't say anymore and both of us walked out of the meeting room together. I looked to my side, noting how similar she was to Mia but at the same time . . . she had that spark . . . a fire that was barely shining through. It was a strength that I haven't seen in a long time.

She's here, Mia. Now, I can fulfill our promise. I'll protect her from anyone who will try to harm her. I hope you're smiling in happiness where you are.

The warmth of that memory with Mia caused my inner mouth and mandibles to twist and bend, forming a smile that I haven't shown to anyone since the time I spent with Mia. Anya looks up to me and like a silent gift, she smiles in return.

She looks just like you . . . and strong too.

We walked out of that room, glad to finally meet Anya and all I could do was hope that Anya has a bright future . . . and I'll always be there for her.

Hi Readers!

We finally come full circle for Daugo and now he's finally met Anya for the first time. Now he can fulfill his promise to Mia. He's still torn from losing Mia and it makes him a character who's always conflicted despite having such happiness right next to him. But he's dedicated to protecting Anya and many of you know very well if you have read Metamorphosis.

So for now, Nexus will go on hiatus until Metamorphosis is complete and the progression of Balance starts. The original plan for this story was to stop here but I have fallen in love with Daugo and decided he needs to have a great and powerful ending so I will give him the credit he deserves. But that will mean waiting for updates on when a new chapter will be posted on my Instagram account. For now, I will start up The Ripple of a Stone once more in about two weeks (falling around Christmas). The days for posting might change seeing that it's the holidays and I have a new full-time job. But I love you guys very much and want to keep up my passion for writing.

I hope you all are excited for another story to continue. Thank you all! :))))

And don't worry, I have a preview of Balance for all (still in the making so it might change as it is posted . And don't want to spoil too much). So here it is and what a great part I always wanted to write lol. . .

I stood strong, firmly on the stone that stood on top of the cliff. With my friends and loved one behind me for support, my eyes looked into the horizon and watched the sun rising. The many roars and clicks from below in the valley got my attention, seeing a sight that I never thought possible.

Hundreds of thousands of Yautja warriors from every clan occupied every single part of the valley, enough that others stood on top of ships lining the tops of cliffs surrounding us. Nervousness seeped in, threatening to break my resolve. I'm not going to give up without a fight. I raised my chest high in pride, opening my mandibles into the sky.

"My fellow warriors! My brothers and sisters! We have endured the worse that the Killer Yautja have inflicted on us. But they have corrupted the world that we once called home."

It was becoming more silent. Hearing such defeat was like a low blow to a Yautja's pride but it needed to be heard. I wasn't going to sugarcoat the recent events . . . but I want them to know. I watched as many lowered their heads down. I felt my chest grow heavy with regret but I needed to push them.

I need to be strong . . . for everyone.

I inhaled deeply and kept going with my speech, letting my voice be heard. "But we have strength far greater than what the Bad Bloods have planned for us. A strength that has lasted since the beginning of time when our ancestors have defeated the Killer Yautja once before."

Soon, many warriors started to look up in renewed vigor. It was like a ripple effect. As they grew more confident, my resolve also did. The flame in the center of my chest began to burn, fueling my heart to race even faster than ever before. My voice had risen in volume, enough that I started to roar.

"And now is our time! To show them that the same strength is still with us!"

Small roars and cheers could be heard and the cliffs amplified it.

"But I can't do this alone! I'm only a single warrior . . . But I'm willing to sacrifice everything to protect the worlds I have come to love! And all that inhabit them!"

The noise rose higher . . . the might of the Yautja shook the ground, enough that I could feel it underneath me.

"You are my strength! You are my pride! You are my courage! And for that . . . I am resolved, in the midst and heat of the battle, to live or die amongst you all!"

Soon, the roars became deafening and the clash of blades and spears rattled the sky with its power. My fire spread through my fingertips and toes. My muscles bulged to the fullest and my claws sharpened like deadly fangs of a Karin'gar.

"While we stand together, we can defeat anything that comes in our way!"

Another wave of roars echoed in the valley. The air bursts onto me like waves of the ocean but fueling me to keep going. "And we will show the Bad Bloods that they cannot take wherever they want! They cannot have Yautja Prime! Because it is our home that has stood for thousands of seasons!"

Soon, many warriors started to stomp their feet in unison. The ground shook from the thunderous rhythm and out of instinct, I followed as well. My left foot slams hard on the ground, lifts before smashing back down on the hard dirt. Their spears danced and their blades clashed with each other, following the rhythm of war.

"So now I ask . . . Will you fight with me?! As equals!? To defeat our enemy and take back our home! Once and for all!"

Unable to hold the energy inside any longer, I threw my head into the sky and let out the greatest roar I've ever unleashed throughout my whole existence. My mandibles reached towards the sky like hands grasping for the sun. My arms bend as far as they could to the sides, making my chest rise in pride. All I could hear were the hundreds of thousands of roars that I believed the whole universe could hear.

I kept roaring as hard as I could, looking into the sky in defiance. I smirked at the thought that we will bring the fight to them . . . and we will succeed.

Be prepared . . . We're coming for you.

Hope all of you love it. Hope to see everyone and their reviews when a chapter of The Ripple of a Stone: Part 2 is posted in two weeks (12/22/19)

P.S. Thank you Anonymous-E, Mariah, and NeverNeverLady for the wonderful reviews on Metamorphosis.

Anonymous-E: I want to formally apologize for the grammar/spelling mistakes. My computer likes to complicate things since it's old. I do make a promise that my stories will be edited as soon as I'm able. And you're very observant. The options that you mention about Anya meeting the Leader of the Elites are very much possible. It might be one or the other . . . who knows? Sorry for being a tease . . . maybe lol

And I feel really bad for Ethan in Respect now. I've been trying to stay bias about him and the others but it sucks. And the drama between females . . . I have a feeling that it might not end well. As for Leader's name, I have two names but since we've been mostly using English names for them, I would say Cruel Hawker or Cunning Death. I think the second is better since the Leader is cold and a psychopath. I think it suits him but if you have any other suggestions, let me know.

Oh . . . and about the Avengers thing but predator style, it might be coming much sooner than you think. *wink*

Mariah: Lots of questions you gave and very good ones at that. I can't spoil too much but I can say that some are right. Good observation on the preview for Balance . . . maybe possible but can't say. I'm such a tease lol (even though I try not to). As for book 4, I'm not planning on making it. But if all goes well with my other stories and I'm up to it, a potential story could be made that sets in time after the events of Balance. Who knows?

NeverNeverLady: What do you know!? I haven't said anything to you! Now you're driving me crazy lol. I won't say anything! Zipping my lips!

Thank you and enjoy! :))))

Reading notes:

Normal = Human speaking English (ooman language)

Bold = Any Yautja speaking English (ooman language)

Bold and Italic = Any Yautja speaking Yautja language