Written in cooperation with Andoria Sunok.
*****
THE HUNT
Vanryl starred at Ash in disbelief. He looked up at the sky and
smiled, pacing as he tried to comprehend what the Dra'Keshi was telling him.
"Soar among the stars without a ship to encumber my journey? How is this
so?" He waved his arms and shook his head for a moment trying to take it
all in and could feel the all familiar tingling of excitement within his
very soul, his body wanting to change and fly, to explore the heavens as he
looked down over the cliffs. He had read in ancient mythology that his
forefathers had done just so, but how? He thought these stories for
wide-eyed children, or had they been?
Vanryl turned, his robes swirling around him, and bowed before Ash. The
newly appointed ambassador to Oryn Prime was startled to see the Sage in
mid-transformation, his eyes large, dark, intense, and short tight feathers
where skin had been moments before. Even his long loose hair was mixed with
dark shiny feathers. Vanryl then waved one hand toward the ledge. "Yes,
show me, I will follow you willingly. I admit that your words, along with
my hunger, are driving me to follow my greatest instincts, which tell me to
trust you. How will we do this?"
Ash smiled.
"In your natural form you have the necessary shape for space flight but not
the required mass. Our dragon forms are of such mass that they create a
gravity well when move away from the planetary bodies. This gravity well
causes the air beneath our wings to have resistance and allows flight even
near the edges of our zone where the air is thinned to near nothingness.
Without this well of gravity, we would simply drift out of control upon
leaving the atmosphere as the air beneath our wings would simply be stirred
around without resistance to push against. Such would be the effect you
would encounter if you tried flying beyond this atmosphere on your own.
However, by remaining near to any of us when flying into space you also
would be able to make use of the gravity well produced and could fly
normally even outside of the planetary systems. If you were a very much
larger version of your natural form..."
Ash paused a moment with an odd gleam of interest in his eyes at that
thought before continuing. "...If your form was large enough to produce a
gravity well you too could fly between the planets of your own ability.
Remind me when we return to Heartstone to ask Zylen if he will create a
special ring for you... For now remain near to me in flight and you will be
completely safe."
Leaping from the stone ledge, Ash morphed into draconic form and began
rising ever faster into the sky. The long and supple dragon neck allowed
Ash to turn his head and look behind him while maintaining his forward
course. The huge dragon face split into a wide smile as he saw Van riding
easily within the wake produced by Ash's own passing.
The Sage let out a long shrill cry of exhilaration as he was caught in the
dragon's wake. He then sent a message telepathically to Ash. "This is
incredible!" Vanryl was amazed by the fact that due to the gravitational
well he was able to breath. Ash had explained that the air within the star
system was thick enough to provide life-support for the journey between
Heartstone and the feeding planet, Zenshee 2. Being that the dragon was so
large, he was even able to land momentarily and survey the heavens.
The blood of his ancestors was flowing freely within his veins and the
prophets spoke to him as if in a dream. All seemed an illusion, and for a
moment he fought the intrusion, thinking he was but a victim of space
sickness, but he was no match for their determined assault. "There are
greater truths to be learned from this ancient world than all the wisdom in
the Caves of Everlasting Souls. We grant thee the shield of wisdom, the
gift of light for illumination, and your sword shall divide truth from
falsehood. Your new station with be blessed, but use wisdom, for many are
called, but few are chosen." Then, as if being startled out a deep sleep,
he heard Ash calling to him, announcing their arrival on Zenshee 2.
As they glided easily into the slightly thicker atmosphere of the planet,
lush grassland spread away below them in all directions. Spotted about
across the grasslands which makeup nearly 90 percent of the planet surface,
Thick groves of forest added a deeper green to the sea of plantlife below
them. Spotting a bluff which was free of the 6-10 foot tall grass which was
the prominent feature of the planet, Ash made for the hillock to serve as a
landing point.
Upon arriving atop a bluff, the two travelers remained in their respective
forms. The fields of tall grasses below seemed to move as waves upon an
ocean. As Vanryl watched closely he first sensed and then observed movement
below. He turned to Ash who was watching the large creatures with a
predatory eye. The large (by the stars, to the Sage they were giants)
rabbits (which Ash referred to as Farbles), lumbered along contentedly,
unaware of their fate. However, that changed quickly when the winds turned
and their scent was picked up.
Suddenly, the poor creatures seemed to be consumed by a fever, running,
screaming, and heading for the safety of the trees. The Sage watched as Ash
leapt from the bluff and with massive wings outstretched and claws barred,
descended upon a sole rabbit unable to keep up with the rest of the herd.
The Sage flew to a large tree close by and observed. Ash was swift and
merciful, and the dragon began to satisfy his hunger, but not before
locating the sage once more and scanning the nearby area for predators. As
the smell of fresh game penetrated Vanryl's nostrils, he too was driven to
hunt, but what? Ash was completely preoccupied at the moment, so the Sage
began to scan the forest floor. It was impossible for him to see the base
of the tall grasses for smaller game. Then he saw them. A small grouping of
rodent-like animals with small wings huddled together under a cluster of
bushes. He spread his wings and let out a cry. Ash momentarily lifted his
head and followed the flight of the hawk to the forest floor and then
returned to feeding. He sent out a message "Careful my friend, watch your
back." Vanryl was so caught up in the moment that he didn't heed the
message until he had one of the rodents in his grasp. He had already broken
its neck and was flying into a tree above to feed when he almost slammed
into one of the giant rabbits and had to turn quickly to avoid its angry
jaws. It was then that he saw the shadow and his instincts took over. It
was at least twice his size, also in flight, careening with the skill of a
fellow predator. The Sage refused to give up
his prey and instead turned his wings and was lifted almost straight above
his enemy. His heart almost stopped. The winged creature had enormous
talons and was twice his size. The Sage realized that he would not win this
battle in his native form. However, his hunger drove him and he headed for
the narrow recesses of a cliff at the edge of the forest. There he set his
catch within a crevice and considered his options.
As he looked below, a cascading waterfall caught his eye. He needed to
transform into humanoid form, where he would have a chance at self- defense.
However, the creature was clinging to the cliff and was making it very clear
that he was not leaving anytime soon. Something startled the creature and
it let go of the cliff. He saw the dragon circling above, however, due to
his size, Ash was unable to assist him.
The distraction was to his advantage, however, and he leapt from the cliff,
closed his wings, and let gravity take him to the falls, where he swept into
the space between the water and the rock face. The creature followed
quickly and landed outside the falls. Vanryl changed into humanoid form,
shaking with fear and anger. He drew his
sword and wrapped his cape around him, pulling his hood down around his
face.
Ash was desperate to help, but all he could do was observe for the time
being. He had landed above the cliffs, maintaining dragon form, just
waiting for the dac'ta to fly upwards so he could grasp it in his claws. As
it circled the area above the falls, Ash spied Vanryl peeking around the
corner of the waterfall. To his astonishment, the Sage wrapped his cloak
around himself and seemed to meld into the stony background. At the same
time the waterfall seemed to stand still, in fact, even the dac'ta seemed to
move in slow motion. Vanryl's drawn sword glowed with the brilliance of the
sun and the symbols upon the blade, crimson. With one quick blow he pierced
the shoulder of the creature which then screamed in pain and flew off.
Vanryl knew that the wound would be self-healing, however, the creature
would not return this day to hunt him.
All Ash could do was stare in disbelief. He then observed the Sage walk
into the falls and lift his sword as if in a cleansing ritual. Vanryl
changed form once again and flew to the crevice and collected his catch. Ash
gave him the privacy he deserved while feeding, while he himself finished
off his third Farble which proved to be the most satisfying of the three.
Soon after Vanryl rejoined him and returned to humanoid form. He was quiet,
bruised, and reflective, but none the worse for wear. Ash returned to
elven form and observed his friend lean gingerly back against the support of
a large rock.
"Are you alright, Andorian?" Vanryl laughed. "Yes, just a little sore.
Please tell me that the Dra'Keshi are the proprietors of a most excellent
wine, being elven and all. I could use a keg right about now!" Ash roared.
"Indeed we are, yes! We are the makers of several good wines, and an
excellent ale we call Dragonsbreath. Shall we return to Heartstone for a
celebration?" "In lieu of today's events, yes, and the sooner the better"
replied Vanryl as he dusted himself off and smoothed a few bumps and
bruises.
Ash couldn't help himself and he rolled with laughter on the cliff ledge.
After a few moments he apologized. "I am sorry, but I must say I am
impressed with not only your hunting skills, but also your aptness for
magic." He grew serious. "We have much to learn from each other and you
are more than ready, my friend." They met each other's eyes and just for a
moment, Vanryl could see the reflection of the light of the prophets in his
eyes, a fact the Sage found very odd and worth discussion.
*****
The return trip back to Heartstone passed uneventfully and the pair of
friends, for there could be no doubt such had formed between Ash and Vanryl,
returned to humanoid form upon reaching the Southern Balcony. While
chatting idly about matters of the hunt and various exploits they had been
party to, Ash led the way northward along the great southern avenue.
Reaching a crossing just before the entrance into the Royal Cavern, Ash
guided his friend eastward through the crossing. A short walk further
brought the pair outside the uncurtained entry of Senchee's Tavern.
While it was not the only drinking establishment within Valik's Hold, it was
quite easily one of the best in all the Dra'Keshi Empire. Halting outside
the tavern, Ash cautioned Vanryl with a serious look that appeared quite
unnatural upon his generally jovial elven features.
"I would recommend that you not attempt to keep up with those we shall
encounter within, nor myself for that matter. Our nature allows for a rather
large amount of consumption and some find enjoyment from seeing visitors'
falter while trying to measure up during the drinking games that are played
here. I must admit that I would be hard pressed to defend you should things
become less than friendly. Having put so much of my time and effort into
studies of the ancient lore and sites, I am sadly no match, physically, for
most Draks."
With a shrug Ash turned to enter the tavern and added over his shoulder
"More likely than not I am being overly cautious. This place is not known
for mindless brawling, however it has been known to occur from time to time.
To be on the safe side, sticking near to Senchee and myself would be wise
in any case. While I can do little physically
I am rarely challenged when it comes to raw magical power. Besides..."
Halting again and turning about to face Van with a wide grin that seems
perfectly at home upon his features, Ash concludes before resuming their
entry into the mid-sized cavern.
"I may be no physical match, but Senchee can, and has, stood down half the
Dra'Keshi in his tavern all on his own."
Ash led the Andorian sage on a rather circuitous route around the more
crowded regions of the large natural cavern toward a low shelf along the
rear section that served as the bar. The cavern itself had been left for
the most part in its natural state. The floors had not been magically
polished smooth as they were through most of the streets and dwellings of
the capital. Likewise the walls and ceiling had not been leveled and
geometrically adjusted to provide the most usable space as most all other
sites in the city had been.
While obviously magically formed, the tables and chairs throughout the
tavern was formed in such a way as to be part of the floor itself. The
tables resembled stalagmites that had risen from the floor only to blossom
out into perfectly flat and smooth tabletops. While the chairs had the look
of being stone pillars chopped off at a three-foot height with carved back
and armrests molded appropriately for comfort despite the impression they
gave upon first glance.
In several places natural formations did join floor and ceiling to create
pillars. Arriving near the back of the tavern, Ash took a seat beside the
low shelf that had looked quite natural from a distance, yet upon closer
inspection could be seen that the entire topside had been polished to a
smooth and flawless finish. Indicating a seat beside his own, Ash gestured
toward a rather ancient appearing elf behind the bar.
As Senchee smiled broadly and walked somewhat slowly over to the pair,
Vanryl could see that the bartender did indeed appear to be quite old even
by elven standards.
"Ash! My young friend. I heard of your promotion and quite an envious one
it is too. I take it this is the ambassador who shall be your counterpart
here?" Senchee queried with a node toward the Andorian Sage.
Van smiled, and as he scanned the numerous kegs, flasks, and bottles behind
the bar, he replied "Yes, one and the same. I dare say from what Ash has
told me, your company and wisdom will give me great comfort in a strange
land, especially if that Dragon's Breath is as satisfying as I have been
told. Senchee laughed. "Aye, that, depending on how ye hold your ale."
Senchee turned an amusing grin towards Ash. "Well, ye must certainly have
one last memorable celebration to remind you of home while you are away
exploring new worlds and such. That said...what will have ye?"
With a broad smile and an affirmative nod of agreement, Ash spoke without
hesitation. "Quad-pints of Cinder and Frostbite until I cry mercy!" As if
a second thought, Ash added "And a plate of your famous spiced
cheesy-potatoes if you have any."
Senchee threw his head back in laugher and roared "Indeed! Indeed!" Then,
turning to the Sage he added. "What will it be, ambassador, a Quad-pint of
Dragon's Breath?"
Van looked at Ash who was looking straight ahead, stifling a chuckle. "No,
I think I will simply start with a stein, thank you very much. Oh, and I
will also try a plate of those spiced cheesy-potatoes."
Senchee grinned and shook his head. "Stein? Such a thing I am not familiar
with."
Picking the smallest mug off a shelf behind him, one which would be
equivalent to a small pitcher in most other civilizations, Senchee displayed
the glass for approval. Following an affirmative nod from the Sage, the
barkeep laughed loudly and commented. "A safe choice, my friend."
From the corner of the room a Drak roared "Ha! He drinks like a suckling!
Ash, who is your friend?" Ash rolled his eyes and grimaced. He leaned over
to Van and whispered "That one's name is Tyr'one. He is a noble soul, but
too fond of sporting for his own good." Ash was a little startled when the
Sage arose and made his way to Tyr'one's table in the corner of the cavern.
He then extended his hand in friendship and when the Drak took it
he gripped firmly and did not release. The Drak eyed him skeptically and he
too tightened his grip. An arm wrestling match ensued which the Drak easily
won after only a few moments of sporting entertainment. He sensed that the
Sage was strong physically for his species, but no match for a Drak. Upon
releasing his grip the Sage laughed good-heartedly.
"My name is Sage Vanryl, ambassador from Oryn Prime to the Dra'Keshi Empire.
And you are?"
"My name is Tyr'one. Chief Warden of the Valik Prime BorderWatch. Have a
seat."
The Sage sensed something about this Drak, and the gift of illumination made
it clear to him that a test was about to commence. Tyr'one removed a
necklace that held a three-sided pyramid-shaped crystal amulet that seemed
to hold within itself a flower resembling a rose overlaying a flame.
Something stirred within Van and he waved his hand just above the amulet and
felt warmth. At the same time, a light flickered within the amulet and it
began to glow. The eyes of the Drak and the Andorian met with equal
intensity and both smiled. The Sage then closed his eyes, and having reached
a state of meditation, crossed his hands, palm sides down, above the
crystal. He then moved his hands upward and the rose and the flame seemed
to rise above the amulet, as if a holographic projection, glowing red and
yellow respectively. Ash set his drink down with a loud thump, and Senchee
stopped wiping the bar both watching without making a move to interrupt.
Tyr'one leaned back in his chair and watched the Sage with growing
satisfaction.
The Sage then opened his eyes and slowly lowered his hands. The images
returned to within their crystal boundaries.
"Well done, Sage Vanryl" Tyr'one then laughed and slapped him on the back.
"You will do well in our realm. Now, let us continue with this
celebration!"
As Ash lifted his glass in a toast, he noticed that Van had picked up the
amulet and had suddenly become sullen. "Come, my friend, join us! What
troubles ye so on such a joyful occasion?"
"It is not so much troubling as enlightening. First at the falls I was able
to command the cloak of protection, and just now, well, I haven't been able
to use my inborn gifts and talents at this level for years. There is a
very strong magical node here. There are many on my world who have lost much
of their inborn abilities due to lack of use and a greater dependence on
technology. I pray that while you are on Oryn Prime you might rekindle the
desire of my people for the old ways. Until now I had not realized how
great a loss this has become." Ash smiled "Then, it shall be so."
With his glass still raised, Ash raised his voice in toast. "To new
experiences and awakening that which has slipped into a restless slumber.
To new beginnings and old ends!" The roar of agreement from the entire
tavern drowned out all conversations for a moment, before the sound level
within the establishment returned to it's prior level.
Long into the night the foursome continued with song, dance, and stories of
lore and land. And, sometime in the early morn, Ash did indeed cry mercy,
whereby Van helped him to his home. Ash drunkenly directed Van toward an
attached guest chamber before falling unconscious but sated into his own
bed. The two slept deeply well into the afternoon.
*****
A sweet fragrance similar to incense, plush warm blankets, and the smell
of something else, unfamiliar, slowly awakened Vanryl. He sat up and
stretched in human form and then changed into his native form. He began
stretching, preening, and found several tail feathers missing. Memories
of his hunt on Zenshee flooded back. He was hungry and he wondered if Ash
would want to go on a hunt prior to leaving Heartstone or simply wait
until they arrived on Oryn Prime. He flew to the adjoining room and
observed Ash still on the couch where he had passed out the night before.
He was stirring slightly and mumbling. The Sage cocked his head to one
side trying to concentrate on his words, but could not make them out.
By this time Van knew his way to the surface and proceeded to meet the day
where he could absorb the suns afternoon rays. Landing on a ledge nearby
he noticed a large dragon lifting off the cliff, and he felt a shudder
within his spirit. For a brief moment the large head turned and met his
gaze. He felt something stir within him, a warning, for he felt from the
creature arrogance, deceit, and something else far worse. Then it was as
if a steel door slammed shut and he could read nothing at all. The Drak
circled him once curiously eyeing him. Van saw his eyes narrow and then
the creature headed off in the direction of Zenshee.
Van flew from a higher advantage point and looked for game. Finding none,
he returned to Ash's rooms where he heard Ash humming and found him
dressing. He flew back to his own room, changed into human form and began
to eat a multigrain cake and a piece of fruit taken from his supply on the
ship. It would satisfy him momentarily until they finalized their plans.
He then entered Ash's room and sat down on the couch and said casually.
"How are you feeling this morning, Ash. You sure put away enough to down a
Sage for week! I have been to the surface to stretch my wings and
meditate. By the way, are we going to go on a hunt prior to departure, I
am famished! If so, I will go now and run a diagnostic check on the Star
Chaser while you ready yourself."
Ash nodded affirmatively and stretched to relieve his muscles from the
unnatural state in which he had spent the night. Normally his evening
would have been spent in Reverie, an elven state of meditation which
greatly heightened the senses and restored the energies of life. As the
celebrations had robbed him of that restful state, Ash moved rather
sluggishly and feeling a bit rundown and fatigued. Shaking off the
feelings for the moment with the knowledge that he would get plenty of
rest on the journey to his new assignment, Ash looked forward to another
hunt before the trip.
While Van was off doing something technical with his ship, Ash checked the
pack he had prepared earlier, and feeling secure that he had all he wished
to take with him, set off to join the Andorian Sage at his vessel.
Upon seeing Ash approaching the ship, Van transferred his attention to his
guest and let the levitating hand-held computer continue with the
diagnostic check. "Ah, there you are. If you would like, you can stow
your gear aboard the Star Chaser. Come, let me give you a quick tour
before we set off. It will be brief, I promise." Ash eyed the ship and
replied "Sure, but as for my gear, I am very comfortable carrying it
myself." Van smiled and shook his head "As you wish, Ambassador." Ash
was really enjoying that title.
As they approached what was the front of the ship, Ash could see no formal
entry. Van placed his hand on the ship and it seemed to meld within the
hull. A ripple effect occurred with a shimmering of color and a hatch just
seemed to materialize. Van motioned to his friend to enter. "You first,
watch your step." As Ash entered he first noticed that the entire surface
of the interior seemed smooth, solid; however, as they entered the ship
the instrument panels, seats, and, well, everything just seemed to
suddenly "be there". A voice startled Ash. "Sage Vanryl, welcome.
Who is our guest?" "Bynzar, this is Ambassador Ash from the Dra'Keshi
Empire. He will be returning with us to Oryn Prime to serve on the High
Council." Ash threw him a quick glance. Van had said nothing about the
High Council.
The computer Synth replied "Special instructions?" Realizing what the
computer was asking he gave clarification. "No special instructions,
Bynzar. He will be, let's say, flying his own ship. I am simply giving him
a tour." Bynzar remained quiet for a moment. "Sir, I can detect no other
ship in the area." Ash laughed at that one. Van smiled. "Not to worry,
I will explain on the return trip to Oryn Prime." Again silence, then
"Very well. Shall I complete internal diagnostics, sir?" "Yes." All the
two travelers heard was "comply" and then quiet. Van then explained.
"Bynzar is an onboard
computer, a Synth, who is capable of practically flying the Star Chaser by
himself. He can run several systems on board, including navigation,
weapons, life support, helm control, well, really any function whatsoever.
This technology allows us to travel long distances on reconnaissance
missions with minimal personnel. Our new LaserNet System allows for
excellent defense, and the hull is made up of living organic material,
which reflects or mimics its surroundings, thus giving it the ability to
cloak."
The term "computer" was not familiar to Ash, however the description given
led the Dra'Keshi to understand that this "computer" was some type of
technological brain for the vessel. The idea of using such a thing
disturbed Ash somewhat, as in doing so one was actually weakening
themselves by ceasing to exercise those parts of the mind that would
naturally be utilized had the computer not been doing it for them. Ash
shuddered visibly at the thought that his mind would not be near as
powerful as it was now had the Dra'Keshi not decided to abstain from the
use of "tools".
Still...Ash considered...the tech-brain could perhaps serve a purpose
greater than a simple tool. Considering that it might prove challenging in
some areas of mental skill...as an opponent to exercise his mind with as
other Dra'Keshi minds would not be available for such activities where he
was heading. The computer would most certainly be lacking of certain
instinctual abilities and emotions that could not be imbued entirely into
technological constructions. However as an opponent in the fields of logic
and mental agility the mechanical brain would likely prove to be a worthy
challenger. Making note to discuss with Van regarding whether such contests
were allowable, Ash set the thoughts aside for the moment and returned his
full attention to the matters currently at hand.
Suggesting that Van bring his ship to Zenshee 2 so that they might depart
directly from there, Ash waited for acknowledgement from Vanryl that he
was ready for launch before shifting to dragon form for the short flight
to the feeding planet.
The trip to Zenshee 2 was uneventful and quick, being unfettered by
"tools" Ash moved off from a small hillock in a low glide toward a
large-sized herd of Farbles. With the knowledge that Van would need to
settle his vessel and disembark before the Andorian would be able to begin
his own hunt, Ash selected his first target and swooped upon the
unsuspecting creature from downwind and facing toward the sun so that the
huge rabbit never realized what hit it. The remainder of the herd
scattered off in all directions as the huge dragon landed within their
midst. After wolfing down his first prize, Ash leapt after a second
without taking flight. With his great wings folded and tucked against the
sides of his body, Ash tore across the grasslands with a grace and speed
unexpected of a land-bound dragon. The huge claws of his fore and hind
legs tore cottage sized chunks from the earth in his passing. Crossing
the distance to his prey in a span of seconds, Ash's huge maw slammed shut
around the Farble less than 10 feet from the edge of the forest toward
which it had been heading.
A tactic which was used to quite amazing visual effect for any who
might have the opportunity of viewing it, rather than trying to stop his
forward motion to avoid impact with the trees Ash simply planted all 4 of
his limbs and pushed off into a leap which became flight as he flicked out
his wings high over the forest.
Considering that he had time for one more bite before checking back n Van,
Ash turned sharply and glided low across the slightly turned field he had
just crossed on foot. Three large Farbles were bounding toward another
copse of trees some distance ahead and Ash beat his wings twice quickly to
gain a surge of speed that sent him zipping over the small group.
Catching two with his claws at the apex of their leaping run, Ash's tail
skimmed low across the grass behind him and with a flex of the muscles
within caught the third flinging it high into the sky. Catching the
airborne morsel in his jaws, Ash snacked upon the other two during his
brief return flight to where Van had landed his vessel.
Vanryl landed the Star Chaser on a bluff above the fields and departed the
craft. He glanced in the direction where Ash had landed and changed form.
It felt good to stretch his wings and for several minutes he simply caught
and rode the air currents, letting the warm rays of the sun warm and
invigorate him. Any fuzziness of mind from the night prior cleared and he
focused on a small animal in a thicket. Swooping silently down from behind,
he caught the creature in his talons and immediately snapped its neck,
assuring an instant death. He never wanted his prey to suffer. He landed
on a ledge and began to first tear off the hide and then he devoured the
meat and bones of the creature to ensure a balanced and nutritional meal.
He would have preferred the fish on Oryn Prime, but this would have to do.
He was still hungry so took flight and landed on a limb atop a hundred foot
tree. He could see Ash feeding contentedly on yet two more farbles and he
laughed to himself. "He eats like he drinks...bountifully!" He then caught
a glimpse of another small creature, and repeated his silent approach,
however, the creature had caught his scent and was long gone before the
Sage arrived for the kill. Then, he spied it, a large bush covered in the
sweetest smelling berries. Their fragrance reminded him of the spice
bushes of his home world. They were, however, much larger, almost the size
of a large nut, and he grasped one with his claws and flew over to Ash. He
sent a message telepathically "Are these edible?" Ash glanced up
momentarily from his meal and nodded "Yes, they are a delicacy, and are
used in the making of our fine wines." Van tried one and it was delicious.
He flew back to his find and finished his meal with an abundant feast of
fruit, his second favorite meal to fish.
Their morning meal finally finished, the two travelers prepared to depart
the Dra'Keshi Empire. Vanryl glanced around and said in passing "I thought
we might encounter the Drak I saw leave this morning for a hunt, but alas I
believe we are alone." Ash looked at him curiously and said "Well, as I
have explained, there are many feeding worlds here, and we all have our
preferences." Vanryl started to mention what he had sensed from the Drak,
but decided that he had probably just misread the emotions of the
creature. But something in the back of his mind told him he was correct.
He decided to wait until later to speak to Ash about this matter. "Ah,
yes." Van winked at Ash and said "Give me a "head start" and I will lead
the way." Ash laughed and bowed in jest, waving one arm, and replied "Why
of course, after you!"
As the StarChaser slowly ascended above the planet's surface, Ash changed
form and the two friends departed, thus beginning a new chapter in their
lives.
As they slowly disappeared from sight, another was watching....
satisfied with their departure.....Gamma.