Council of War
*1:33:00 REMAINING*
Rachel hissed a very bad word and reached for the dracon that was - as usual - strapped to her leg. Jake did the same, suddenly face to face with a Andalite.
Jaruili reacted just as quickly. WARRIORS! TO THE BRIDGE! TRAITORS!
Tobias's hand began morphing, fully to hawk, and then back to human. But now covered in that iron glove. His other hand carried a dracon.
Jaruili was instantly surrounded by warriors. His tail fwapped, again and again, very skilfully. It was easy to see why he had managed to get himself promoted all the way up to captain.
Kill them! Karmil shrieked. Kill them and take the Time Matrix!
"Shut up," Tobias growled. He pulled back his glove-clad hand, let it fly forwards, and hit the traitor's face at full force. Karmil slumped together, but Tobias had already turned away to shoot a Andalite who's tail was flying towards them.
Larynia! Get the Time Matrix out! Jake ordered. He was half-way through morph to tiger, already blood on his claws.
Larynia glared at him, not wanting to be sent away in the middle of a battle.
Do as he says, her brother said - asking more than ordering - blocking another strike and then sidestepping to push her towards the metal sphere.
It was protected by a ring of Andalites that - hopefully - were loyal to the right side. Larynia was let through it.
Get help, Merin said. Fetch… fetch someone we can trust. Fetch Nemsar.
Larynia glanced around, nodded, and swiftly covered the two steps between her and the Time Matrix. She placed her hands on it and was gone.
There went your prize, traitors! Rachel laughed. She had morphed grizzly by then, where she stood guarding the unconscious TO, and was teaching the traitors exactly how bad an idea it was to make a grizzly mad.
Needless to say, they weren't very quick in learning. To her immense delight.
But both sides had a big problem. Neither knew exactly who was on the other side. Traitors and warriors alike were standing here and there, looking around, wondering who to fight. Only around Jaruili, Karmil, Merin and the three humans did anyone seem to know which side the next was on.
Then the Time Matrix appeared again. Andalite warriors wearing black bands around their arms leaped out from the circle around it to join the fight.
Larynia remained with the Time Matrix, standing next to an Andalite who would stand out clearly in any crowd. Taller than most, he didn't need to use his stalk-eyes to look over the scene. He could see over the others' heads with his main eyes. He had a long, thick tail, ending in a scythe blade as long as a human's arm.
Shortly said, he looked like the type of Andalite that might actually be a match for Rachel's grizzly morph. Or two or three of them.
Merin! he thundered. You seem to have found quite a pleasant battle here!
Merin laughed. I'm happy to see you, Nemsar. Will you join the fight?
Why not? Stay here, Larynia.
Larynia stuck her tongue out at him.
To watch the Time Matrix, he added quickly, knowing his sister if not the human gesture. I'll need it later to get back to my ship.
Nemsar's warriors were many, quick, and effective. The black bands around their arms made sure no-one mistook them for which side they were on, and with the help of the troops still loyal to Jaruili and the Andalite People the traitors were soon beaten back and captured. They were held in force field cages, since Rachel actually didn't have THAT many sets of shackles.
"I never thought they'd be so many," she said, grinning. "But all for the best. It was a good fight."
I agree, Nemsar said. Captain? I'm sorry about your ship. Your crew seems to have been reduced. Drastically.
I think I can manage, Jaruili said, sighing. The problem will only be to arrange trials for this many. But… we haven't been introduced yet. Who are you?
I am Prince Nemsar-Trenomar-Etiphor, Nemsar said. Older brother of one fighter pilot and one exceptionally unpredictable little female. Proud captain of an Alacrity ship, named the Yeerkbane.
I didn't know that was your ship I just visited, brother dear, Larynia said, crossing her arms over her chest and looking at him with a raised eyebrow. I didn't know you had your own ship. I didn't even know there was such a thing as an 'Alacrity ship'.
They are still in the test stage. Classified information. Nemsar shifted his weight uncomfortably, avoiding to meet her gaze, but then continued with another subject; And these… he motioned at his warriors Are my elite group. I've trained them myself.
"They're good," Jake said.
Nemsar nodded proudly and his warriors seemed happy about the praise.
What are you humans planning now? Nemsar asked.
"We're going to grab the highest traitor we know of," Rachel said happily. "And hopefully it'll be another battle worth fighting."
"She's talking about a War Council member," Jake clarified at the inquiring look on Nemsar's face. "Aloth-Darilan-Jemili."
"Serious butt kicking," Rachel chipped in happily.
"Will you help us, Nemsar?" Jake asked.
Nemsar looked worried, stepping up behind his sister, placing his hands on her shoulders. Most Andalites had sleek arms and thin, delicate fingers, but Nemsar could very well have won at arm wrestling against most humans. Larynia glanced up at him, but then turned her face to Merin.
Nemsar did the same and Merin nodded.
I'll be cursed if I miss it, Nemsar said, suddenly smiling. And as the Yeerkbane is down on ground for repairs - we were attacked in orbit just an hour ago… but we were lucky that Mother Ship seems to have disappeared or we would have been out of the fight for good - I'll help you any way I can. And so will my warriors.
"That should improve the odds," Tobias said with a relieved sigh.
*5:00:00 REMAINING*
Larynia left her parents scoop exactly half an hour after her friends had called her. She brought her normal wandering equipment in a sac hung over her back, with a rope around her waist to hold it in place.
Minalea and Olana waited a hundred meters or so away. Larynia galloped up to them, said a quick "hello", and the three trotted away with Olana in the lead. She had memorized the coordinates and her sense of coordination was excellent, even by Andalite standards.
Minalea was the most eager, though, pushing her two friends to continue even after they were getting tired. She kept them to a speedy trot, always at the verge of breaking into a gallop. Until, after more than an hour had passed, her friends decided it was enough.
I hate running, Larynia said in a very suggestive tone.
And I hate driftball, Minalea replied. You know why? Because I'm not good at it.
Minalea knew Larynia very well; Larynia's expression flashed angrily and she sped up, making both her friends follow.
Larynia is right, though, Olana said. We have to run for nearly five hours totally - if we kept to normal speed. This fast it'll go quicker. The problem is we'll never be able to keep this pace.
Wrong, Minalea laughed. You'll never be able to keep this pace. I'll be fine.
That's it, Larynia snapped. Two against one. Slow down!
She slowed down to a lazy trot and Olana did the same, saying; Sorry, Minalea, democracy at work.
I hate democracy.
That's because you're no good at it, Larynia chipped in pleasantly.
Minalea pranced a bit, wanting to continue - if only because she had been told 'slow down'. Then she laughed. You two don't spend much time running. If you came to gatherings now and then…
If we came to your type of gatherings we'd find ourselves chased by government officials, Larynia replied.
Not you, Larynia, Minalea objected. You wouldn't be chased. You'd turn and fight. You'd turn tail.
I'll turn tail on you if you don't watch it, Larynia snapped and swiped playfully at her friend's head. Minalea blocked it and tauntingly danced away on light hooves. The three continued running, now at a more bearable pace.
*1:29:00 REMAINING*
Nemsar, Jaruili said. Do you know the risks of doing this?
What risks?
Jaruili twisted his tail-blade to the side as he answered. This is way beyond any authorized mission, he said. I have surely stepped over a few boundaries myself, which will bring consequences - I am aware of that. Do you know the limit of what you, as a Prince and a captain, are allowed to do?
Nemsar nodded grimly.
And you are willing to risk it?
Nemsar smiled. He squeezed Larynia's shoulders gently. For my sister, he said. He grimaced - a weird thing to see on someone without a mouth. Or she might… hurt me. And, of course, for the People.
What about your warriors?
The Andalites with black bands around their arms turned their stalk-eyes towards their Prince, and then towards the captain who was speaking.
As long as they are acting on my orders, I'll take full responsibility for what they are doing, Nemsar said truthfully. But ask them, captain. He glanced at the group. They are allowed to speak for themselves.
His warriors smiled as if they almost had forgotten that. We go where our Prince goes, one of them said, and the others agreed, murmuring. If he believes this is the right thing to do, then so do we, another stated.
"And why does that sound familiar?" Jake said quietly, and Rachel and Tobias smiled briefly.
Jaruili thought through the words of the warriors. Accepted them, and then turned to Merin. And you?
I am still under your command, Merin pointed out. But I believe I disobeyed you when I took my sister's side against you in not releasing Karmil. I await your orders, but I cannot promise they will be followed.
Go with them, Jaruili said. And laughed, surprising both himself and the other Andalites. If this ends with them wanting to put us all on trial for mutiny, they might as well have some really good reasons. Go take care of Athol. The against-all-rules-and-regulations-way. And that is an order, fighter pilot Merin-Arethil-Coorat.
Yes, captain, Merin replied meekly.
Good. Now hurry before I change my mind.
The group made a side trip down to the Chees' cavern and left Karmil and a few of the higher ranking traitors there. All shackled properly, and tied some distance from each other. Among them were two Princes, twelve veteran warriors and sixteen battle-scarred fighter pilots.
Jake wondered silently how many of their own those pilots had shot down.
After that, Nemsar and Jake spent a minute organising some sort of plan while the others listened and commented. But the main idea kept to the 'classic Rachel plan'.
*1:24:00 REMAINING*
Jarali-Gerenth-Aulor - Head of Civilian Issues and the youngest member of the War Council- hid a yawn as the ever-boring Head of Defence and Assault continued his speech. Jarali had never liked the D and A, but he knew to hide that. Athol-Darilan-Jemili could be a very powerful enemy, and in the currents of War Council politics it was already easy enough to be swept away.
…while I see no reason to call home any further troops, Athol finished.
Athol, one of the informers protested. We have had vague reports of our ships in orbit being forced to take shelter on the surface. Rumours of raids on important space stations. And a Yeerk Mother Ship…
None of it is confirmed, Athol said calmly. I will not base any decisions on rumours and simple nonsense. I refuse to…
I am still Head of Council here, the aged Lirem-Arrepoth-Terrouss interrupted. And you, Athol, will do as you are told if I decide to overrule your decisions.
Athol bowed down his stalk-eyes submissively. Jarali noticed some of the other Council members watching him closely as he did so. Athol wasn't very popular, mainly because the position he held was popular. It was the second most important office for any Andalite, and while no-one would dream of scheming against Lirem, there were often schemes against Athol - who was powerful enough to survive them.
The War Council wasn't the united front the People liked to think it was.
There was silence after Lirem had spoken. All the informers and the Council members knew him well enough to see that he was thinking, and did not want to be disturbed.
This time, though, Lirem's thoughts were interrupted. By a short buzz, and a sudden thought-speech voice that roared; STAND STILL!
Jarali's tail-blade flew up to attack when a large, brown shaggy creature appeared. After came a large black-orange striped being that itself was followed by a band of Andalites.
Instantly, there were thought-speech orders being shouted by the towering Andalite in the centre of their circle. The Andalites spread out over the room and quickly overpowered the informers and surrounded the seven members of the War Council.
Don't call your guards, Lirem, the same thought-speech voice said, as three of the invaders took positions by the door. We need a talk.
Lirem looked around the room. Some informers were still fighting, but it was clear that they had no chance. The console for communicating with security was on the table, but also on the table was the striped being. He had sat down right over it, obviously knowing it was there, and he did not look like he would be easy to move.
Jarali knew that Lirem's first thought would be to buy time.
Who am I speaking to? Lirem asked.
Me, for the moment, said another voice and the shaggy creature rose on it's two hind legs. And here's a tip; don't get me mad.
Enough, Rachel, snapped the first voice. I'm the one on the table. The creature is called a tiger, if you want to know. My name is Jake, and I'm the leader of the human resistance.
And you are followed by Andalites, Lirem commented. He glared at the Andalite in the centre. Only then did Jarali notice the two… humans, he assumed… standing behind to the Andalite, one on each side of a large metal sphere. They will be dealt with. Firmly. As with all traitors.
That won't be necessary, the Andalite replied respectfully, bowing his stalk-eyes and tail down low. I am Prince Nemsar-Trenomar-Etiphor. And I, as well as my brother Merin-Arethil-Coorat over there… he pointed to another Andalite with his tail-blade believe it is among your own ranks you need to look for traitors.
Nonsense! Athol snapped.
Nonsense, Athol? Lirem said. That is for me to decide.
Athol is correct, Lirem, another Council member, Kerroth-Treidis-Arymar, the Head of Finances, said softly. It is preposterous. That any Andalite…
We've all seen traitors before, Kerroth, Japhar-Salator-Nakell, Head of Foreign Affairs, snapped. So why not among our own?
We have all year ourselves, the human leader called Jake said. We could stay here for as long as we like. Unfortunately, you don't have all year. In fact, you have about one day, two at the most.
Why? Athol snapped.
Let's not get into any details, the one called Rachel snapped back. For now, it's because he says so.
Why should I listen to him?
If you don't, you've got a problem. A very large, furry one with big teeth. She bared her teeth at Athol, who lifted his tail into attack and took a step forwards.
Enough, Jake and Lirem said at the same time. Lirem swivelled a stalk-eye at the tiger on the table, and continued; About traitors, Prince Nemsar?
Yes, Nemsar said. There is one among you who has been, according to a very trusted source, in contact with the Yeerk Council of Thirteen. Athol-Darilan-Jemili.
Aloth's facial expression was one worth remembering. Jarali could guess that he was not the only one with that opinion.
Lirem kept Athol silent by raising a hand. He turned back to Nemsar. A very serious accusation, Prince Nemsar. On what grounds?
This is absurd! Aloth erupted.
Hush! Japhar barked. All accusations of this type needs to be properly and thoroughly investigated, according to regulation number…
We know, Japhar, Kerroth sighed. We know. You and your regulations.
Prince Nemsar? Lirem said, his left back hoof slamming, annoyed, against the floor. Japhar and Kerroth both flinched, while Athol's tail and stalk-eyes were beginning to twitch with rage. But all three were silent.
We have the word of my younger sister, Nemsar said.
And we can trust her, Merin added.
A word is not good enough, Kerroth snapped. A word can as well as a lie.
True, Jake said. But we also had an open rebellion on one of your fleet's Dome Ships, the River's Promise. It was caused by a traitor she named, a certain Karmil-Menathar-Tefil, a well-respected and trusted tactical officer, as well as more than half the crew. Among them, a nephew of Athol's… Tanlorin-Athol-Dralnan.
Do not speak of me as if I was not here! Athol hissed. His tail twitched, but the creature on the table watched him calmly, not showing the slightest bit of fear. And do not accuse my nephew of -
He tried to steal our Time Matrix, Rachel said. So shut up or I'll shut you up. Permanently.
Jarali saw the signs of rage on Athol's face and wondered. Athol had been accused of things before, and always met the accusations calmly. Jaruili disliked the D and A deeply, but a traitor? No. He would never have guessed.
I'm afraid this Council needs more proof than your words, Prince Nemsar, Lirem said coldly after the creature on the table had told the shaggy one to 'chill'. And if you do not convince us, you will be the one charged with treason. You, and any other Andalite involved in this. Do you understand?
Yes, Nemsar said. But Athol is a traitor, and I am not leaving this room until that is proven.
Neither will I, Jake said.
Then you'll be staying here a very, very long time, Athol spat. Lirem, could you tell these… these creatures… that -
Not so fast, Tarafor-Allonat-Fekaj, the Head of Sciences, said suddenly. He had been standing deep in his own thoughts, as usual. Someone mentioned 'Time Matrix' earlier. What was that about?
"This," one of the humans said, patting the sphere. "This is the Time Matrix."
And you are? Japhar asked.
"Tobias," he said. "I'm also from the human resistance."
Tarafor all of a sudden looked very interested in the discussion. His hands were trembling. Where did you get it?
"In the future. On Earth."
It's on Earth? Where?
"Do you think I'm stupid enough to tell you? No offence, but no Andalite is getting their hands on this thing. You have a tendency to overdo things, and who knows what you might do?"
And you humans? Jarali said, feeling a bit insulted - as the rest of the present Andalites. You do not have this… tendency?
"Maybe," Tobias said, shrugging. "All the same, we're the ones who've got it, and we're keeping it." Then his eyes narrowed. "Are you Jarali?"
The second human nodded. That's him, she said - in thought-speech, which caused some attention to be aimed at her. Attention she seemed to enjoy. From the refuge.
What refuge? Jarali asked.
"This discussion has taken a weird turn," Tobias said. "The refuge is the planet where the escaped Andalites live in the future. We're from that future. At least the tiger, the bear and us two humans…"
I'm Andalite, the second human objected.
"Sorry. But they did call me 'hawk' as well."
Why would we Andalites need a refuge? Yramil-Salarouth-Gendirir, the Head of History - and the only one ranking below Jarali - wondered.
Because your planet went bye-bye, Rachel snapped. Because you lost the war against the Yeerks.
Impossible! Athol cried.
Very possible, with a traitor as Head of Defence and Assault, Yramil disagreed.
Council members? What do you suggest? Lirem sighed.
I… Athol began, but was interrupted.
Your opinion doesn't count this time, Athol, Kerroth said. I say we should isolate him, take him out of the Council… until a trial can be held.
I agree, Tarafor said, and so did Japhar and Yramil.
I believe that could work, Jarali said finally. But who can guard him? If he is a traitor, who can we trust?
The human who had claimed to be an Andalite reached up and grabbed Nemsar's arm. She must have said something in thought-speech, because he nodded and two of his warriors were ordered to the sides of the Time Matrix.
He himself walked forwards, followed by both humans.
I have an idea, he said. We have gathered a number of traitors in a safe place…
Quite the collection, Rachel said, baring her teeth in what could be a smile.
Nemsar continued. We could take care of Athol as well for you, and return him later, when you need him. We have shackles that can hold him.
Done, Lerim said, looking relieved.
You even consider handing me over to them?! Athol roared.
Not 'consider', Athol, Japhar said, not hiding the smugness in his voice. 'Considered'.
The human reached into a backpack hung over her shoulder and pulled out a set of very weird shackles. We need to put these on, she said. Stay still, Athol.
She stepped forwards. Athol's tail exploded into action and the blade had almost reached her face when Nemsar blocked it. There was a short thought-speech shout and a few of the warriors came rushing up to help their Prince. But Nemsar needed no help; in three swipes he had beaten the Athol down to his knees and somehow locked the D and A's tail-blade in his own.
Well well well, Lerim said, eyes narrowed. It looks like you were right, Prince Nemsar.
Athol got to his hooves, stalks darting back and forth, face a mask of anger and worry. His tail was held securely by the blade.
Nice trick you've taught me, Larynia, Nemsar said to the human. Never thought it would work, but it actually does. Now shackle him.
Larynia snapped a sheath shut around Athol's tail-blade. She grabbed his arms, forced them easily into place behind his back and fastened each wrist to the other elbow, as well as tying the tail down to it all. Then she added the collar around his neck and handed the leash to Rachel.
Hello, traitor, said Rachel, grinning widely. She was demorphing, and so was the creature on the table. If you're nice, I'll be nice. Maybe.
"Do you believe us now, Lerim?" Jake asked. "Unmotivated attack, against what he knew was happening upon your orders."
Lerim nodded. The tense feeling in the room evaporated. The Head of Council put on his most ceremonial expression and his coldest gaze. In a low voice, he said; You are hereby relieved from your duties, Athol-Darilan-Jemili, as member of the War Council and as a leader of the Andalite fleet and military and as a model for the People. See yourself as a condemned traitor, because that is how you are seen. May you carry your tail low in your shame.
The other members repeated his words, the words of an ancient but seldom used ritual, and Athol looked more and more furious.
But Lerim sighed. Why, Athol?
Athol stopped moving. He froze in place, swivelled his stalk-eyes towards the Head of Council and suddenly looked sad. He had not expected that question. Not at all.
Because I saw it, he said in a barely audible whisper. I saw the defeat coming. I was Head of Defence and Assault, and… I knew we would lose.
So you decided to help them to it, Japhar spat, tail and stalks twitching.
No, Athol said, staring intently at the floor with all four eyes, still not moving. it was not simply because of that. They said… promised… they agreed to spare your family if you helped them.
"Yeerks aren't known for keeping promises," Jake pointed out.
Neither are Andalites, Athol replied fiercely, his shackled tail suddenly twisting. You don't understand. After what happened to my son… before I became Head of Defence and Assualt… three Dome ships sent on a suicide mission. They swore he'd be back. They gave their word. They promised. They PROMISED HE'D BE BACK!
Rachel, now human, led the sobbing former War Council member towards the Time Matrix. With a simple touch, she, Athol and the sphere were gone.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Author's note;
I could have made Athol "the supreme bad guy". But I decided not to. He's just another example of a strong soul who cracked. It's sad, really.
*Sigh*. Next part soon, as I always say. Except, this time I'll be away for a few days so it won't be THAT soon.
It's very near the end now. Only two or three left. Depends on how much I'm able to shorten it. *which I'm not very good at* And then there's the epilogue, which I'm already done with, fortunately. I'll put it up at the same time as the last chapter.
*1:33:00 REMAINING*
Rachel hissed a very bad word and reached for the dracon that was - as usual - strapped to her leg. Jake did the same, suddenly face to face with a Andalite.
Jaruili reacted just as quickly. WARRIORS! TO THE BRIDGE! TRAITORS!
Tobias's hand began morphing, fully to hawk, and then back to human. But now covered in that iron glove. His other hand carried a dracon.
Jaruili was instantly surrounded by warriors. His tail fwapped, again and again, very skilfully. It was easy to see why he had managed to get himself promoted all the way up to captain.
Kill them! Karmil shrieked. Kill them and take the Time Matrix!
"Shut up," Tobias growled. He pulled back his glove-clad hand, let it fly forwards, and hit the traitor's face at full force. Karmil slumped together, but Tobias had already turned away to shoot a Andalite who's tail was flying towards them.
Larynia! Get the Time Matrix out! Jake ordered. He was half-way through morph to tiger, already blood on his claws.
Larynia glared at him, not wanting to be sent away in the middle of a battle.
Do as he says, her brother said - asking more than ordering - blocking another strike and then sidestepping to push her towards the metal sphere.
It was protected by a ring of Andalites that - hopefully - were loyal to the right side. Larynia was let through it.
Get help, Merin said. Fetch… fetch someone we can trust. Fetch Nemsar.
Larynia glanced around, nodded, and swiftly covered the two steps between her and the Time Matrix. She placed her hands on it and was gone.
There went your prize, traitors! Rachel laughed. She had morphed grizzly by then, where she stood guarding the unconscious TO, and was teaching the traitors exactly how bad an idea it was to make a grizzly mad.
Needless to say, they weren't very quick in learning. To her immense delight.
But both sides had a big problem. Neither knew exactly who was on the other side. Traitors and warriors alike were standing here and there, looking around, wondering who to fight. Only around Jaruili, Karmil, Merin and the three humans did anyone seem to know which side the next was on.
Then the Time Matrix appeared again. Andalite warriors wearing black bands around their arms leaped out from the circle around it to join the fight.
Larynia remained with the Time Matrix, standing next to an Andalite who would stand out clearly in any crowd. Taller than most, he didn't need to use his stalk-eyes to look over the scene. He could see over the others' heads with his main eyes. He had a long, thick tail, ending in a scythe blade as long as a human's arm.
Shortly said, he looked like the type of Andalite that might actually be a match for Rachel's grizzly morph. Or two or three of them.
Merin! he thundered. You seem to have found quite a pleasant battle here!
Merin laughed. I'm happy to see you, Nemsar. Will you join the fight?
Why not? Stay here, Larynia.
Larynia stuck her tongue out at him.
To watch the Time Matrix, he added quickly, knowing his sister if not the human gesture. I'll need it later to get back to my ship.
Nemsar's warriors were many, quick, and effective. The black bands around their arms made sure no-one mistook them for which side they were on, and with the help of the troops still loyal to Jaruili and the Andalite People the traitors were soon beaten back and captured. They were held in force field cages, since Rachel actually didn't have THAT many sets of shackles.
"I never thought they'd be so many," she said, grinning. "But all for the best. It was a good fight."
I agree, Nemsar said. Captain? I'm sorry about your ship. Your crew seems to have been reduced. Drastically.
I think I can manage, Jaruili said, sighing. The problem will only be to arrange trials for this many. But… we haven't been introduced yet. Who are you?
I am Prince Nemsar-Trenomar-Etiphor, Nemsar said. Older brother of one fighter pilot and one exceptionally unpredictable little female. Proud captain of an Alacrity ship, named the Yeerkbane.
I didn't know that was your ship I just visited, brother dear, Larynia said, crossing her arms over her chest and looking at him with a raised eyebrow. I didn't know you had your own ship. I didn't even know there was such a thing as an 'Alacrity ship'.
They are still in the test stage. Classified information. Nemsar shifted his weight uncomfortably, avoiding to meet her gaze, but then continued with another subject; And these… he motioned at his warriors Are my elite group. I've trained them myself.
"They're good," Jake said.
Nemsar nodded proudly and his warriors seemed happy about the praise.
What are you humans planning now? Nemsar asked.
"We're going to grab the highest traitor we know of," Rachel said happily. "And hopefully it'll be another battle worth fighting."
"She's talking about a War Council member," Jake clarified at the inquiring look on Nemsar's face. "Aloth-Darilan-Jemili."
"Serious butt kicking," Rachel chipped in happily.
"Will you help us, Nemsar?" Jake asked.
Nemsar looked worried, stepping up behind his sister, placing his hands on her shoulders. Most Andalites had sleek arms and thin, delicate fingers, but Nemsar could very well have won at arm wrestling against most humans. Larynia glanced up at him, but then turned her face to Merin.
Nemsar did the same and Merin nodded.
I'll be cursed if I miss it, Nemsar said, suddenly smiling. And as the Yeerkbane is down on ground for repairs - we were attacked in orbit just an hour ago… but we were lucky that Mother Ship seems to have disappeared or we would have been out of the fight for good - I'll help you any way I can. And so will my warriors.
"That should improve the odds," Tobias said with a relieved sigh.
*5:00:00 REMAINING*
Larynia left her parents scoop exactly half an hour after her friends had called her. She brought her normal wandering equipment in a sac hung over her back, with a rope around her waist to hold it in place.
Minalea and Olana waited a hundred meters or so away. Larynia galloped up to them, said a quick "hello", and the three trotted away with Olana in the lead. She had memorized the coordinates and her sense of coordination was excellent, even by Andalite standards.
Minalea was the most eager, though, pushing her two friends to continue even after they were getting tired. She kept them to a speedy trot, always at the verge of breaking into a gallop. Until, after more than an hour had passed, her friends decided it was enough.
I hate running, Larynia said in a very suggestive tone.
And I hate driftball, Minalea replied. You know why? Because I'm not good at it.
Minalea knew Larynia very well; Larynia's expression flashed angrily and she sped up, making both her friends follow.
Larynia is right, though, Olana said. We have to run for nearly five hours totally - if we kept to normal speed. This fast it'll go quicker. The problem is we'll never be able to keep this pace.
Wrong, Minalea laughed. You'll never be able to keep this pace. I'll be fine.
That's it, Larynia snapped. Two against one. Slow down!
She slowed down to a lazy trot and Olana did the same, saying; Sorry, Minalea, democracy at work.
I hate democracy.
That's because you're no good at it, Larynia chipped in pleasantly.
Minalea pranced a bit, wanting to continue - if only because she had been told 'slow down'. Then she laughed. You two don't spend much time running. If you came to gatherings now and then…
If we came to your type of gatherings we'd find ourselves chased by government officials, Larynia replied.
Not you, Larynia, Minalea objected. You wouldn't be chased. You'd turn and fight. You'd turn tail.
I'll turn tail on you if you don't watch it, Larynia snapped and swiped playfully at her friend's head. Minalea blocked it and tauntingly danced away on light hooves. The three continued running, now at a more bearable pace.
*1:29:00 REMAINING*
Nemsar, Jaruili said. Do you know the risks of doing this?
What risks?
Jaruili twisted his tail-blade to the side as he answered. This is way beyond any authorized mission, he said. I have surely stepped over a few boundaries myself, which will bring consequences - I am aware of that. Do you know the limit of what you, as a Prince and a captain, are allowed to do?
Nemsar nodded grimly.
And you are willing to risk it?
Nemsar smiled. He squeezed Larynia's shoulders gently. For my sister, he said. He grimaced - a weird thing to see on someone without a mouth. Or she might… hurt me. And, of course, for the People.
What about your warriors?
The Andalites with black bands around their arms turned their stalk-eyes towards their Prince, and then towards the captain who was speaking.
As long as they are acting on my orders, I'll take full responsibility for what they are doing, Nemsar said truthfully. But ask them, captain. He glanced at the group. They are allowed to speak for themselves.
His warriors smiled as if they almost had forgotten that. We go where our Prince goes, one of them said, and the others agreed, murmuring. If he believes this is the right thing to do, then so do we, another stated.
"And why does that sound familiar?" Jake said quietly, and Rachel and Tobias smiled briefly.
Jaruili thought through the words of the warriors. Accepted them, and then turned to Merin. And you?
I am still under your command, Merin pointed out. But I believe I disobeyed you when I took my sister's side against you in not releasing Karmil. I await your orders, but I cannot promise they will be followed.
Go with them, Jaruili said. And laughed, surprising both himself and the other Andalites. If this ends with them wanting to put us all on trial for mutiny, they might as well have some really good reasons. Go take care of Athol. The against-all-rules-and-regulations-way. And that is an order, fighter pilot Merin-Arethil-Coorat.
Yes, captain, Merin replied meekly.
Good. Now hurry before I change my mind.
The group made a side trip down to the Chees' cavern and left Karmil and a few of the higher ranking traitors there. All shackled properly, and tied some distance from each other. Among them were two Princes, twelve veteran warriors and sixteen battle-scarred fighter pilots.
Jake wondered silently how many of their own those pilots had shot down.
After that, Nemsar and Jake spent a minute organising some sort of plan while the others listened and commented. But the main idea kept to the 'classic Rachel plan'.
*1:24:00 REMAINING*
Jarali-Gerenth-Aulor - Head of Civilian Issues and the youngest member of the War Council- hid a yawn as the ever-boring Head of Defence and Assault continued his speech. Jarali had never liked the D and A, but he knew to hide that. Athol-Darilan-Jemili could be a very powerful enemy, and in the currents of War Council politics it was already easy enough to be swept away.
…while I see no reason to call home any further troops, Athol finished.
Athol, one of the informers protested. We have had vague reports of our ships in orbit being forced to take shelter on the surface. Rumours of raids on important space stations. And a Yeerk Mother Ship…
None of it is confirmed, Athol said calmly. I will not base any decisions on rumours and simple nonsense. I refuse to…
I am still Head of Council here, the aged Lirem-Arrepoth-Terrouss interrupted. And you, Athol, will do as you are told if I decide to overrule your decisions.
Athol bowed down his stalk-eyes submissively. Jarali noticed some of the other Council members watching him closely as he did so. Athol wasn't very popular, mainly because the position he held was popular. It was the second most important office for any Andalite, and while no-one would dream of scheming against Lirem, there were often schemes against Athol - who was powerful enough to survive them.
The War Council wasn't the united front the People liked to think it was.
There was silence after Lirem had spoken. All the informers and the Council members knew him well enough to see that he was thinking, and did not want to be disturbed.
This time, though, Lirem's thoughts were interrupted. By a short buzz, and a sudden thought-speech voice that roared; STAND STILL!
Jarali's tail-blade flew up to attack when a large, brown shaggy creature appeared. After came a large black-orange striped being that itself was followed by a band of Andalites.
Instantly, there were thought-speech orders being shouted by the towering Andalite in the centre of their circle. The Andalites spread out over the room and quickly overpowered the informers and surrounded the seven members of the War Council.
Don't call your guards, Lirem, the same thought-speech voice said, as three of the invaders took positions by the door. We need a talk.
Lirem looked around the room. Some informers were still fighting, but it was clear that they had no chance. The console for communicating with security was on the table, but also on the table was the striped being. He had sat down right over it, obviously knowing it was there, and he did not look like he would be easy to move.
Jarali knew that Lirem's first thought would be to buy time.
Who am I speaking to? Lirem asked.
Me, for the moment, said another voice and the shaggy creature rose on it's two hind legs. And here's a tip; don't get me mad.
Enough, Rachel, snapped the first voice. I'm the one on the table. The creature is called a tiger, if you want to know. My name is Jake, and I'm the leader of the human resistance.
And you are followed by Andalites, Lirem commented. He glared at the Andalite in the centre. Only then did Jarali notice the two… humans, he assumed… standing behind to the Andalite, one on each side of a large metal sphere. They will be dealt with. Firmly. As with all traitors.
That won't be necessary, the Andalite replied respectfully, bowing his stalk-eyes and tail down low. I am Prince Nemsar-Trenomar-Etiphor. And I, as well as my brother Merin-Arethil-Coorat over there… he pointed to another Andalite with his tail-blade believe it is among your own ranks you need to look for traitors.
Nonsense! Athol snapped.
Nonsense, Athol? Lirem said. That is for me to decide.
Athol is correct, Lirem, another Council member, Kerroth-Treidis-Arymar, the Head of Finances, said softly. It is preposterous. That any Andalite…
We've all seen traitors before, Kerroth, Japhar-Salator-Nakell, Head of Foreign Affairs, snapped. So why not among our own?
We have all year ourselves, the human leader called Jake said. We could stay here for as long as we like. Unfortunately, you don't have all year. In fact, you have about one day, two at the most.
Why? Athol snapped.
Let's not get into any details, the one called Rachel snapped back. For now, it's because he says so.
Why should I listen to him?
If you don't, you've got a problem. A very large, furry one with big teeth. She bared her teeth at Athol, who lifted his tail into attack and took a step forwards.
Enough, Jake and Lirem said at the same time. Lirem swivelled a stalk-eye at the tiger on the table, and continued; About traitors, Prince Nemsar?
Yes, Nemsar said. There is one among you who has been, according to a very trusted source, in contact with the Yeerk Council of Thirteen. Athol-Darilan-Jemili.
Aloth's facial expression was one worth remembering. Jarali could guess that he was not the only one with that opinion.
Lirem kept Athol silent by raising a hand. He turned back to Nemsar. A very serious accusation, Prince Nemsar. On what grounds?
This is absurd! Aloth erupted.
Hush! Japhar barked. All accusations of this type needs to be properly and thoroughly investigated, according to regulation number…
We know, Japhar, Kerroth sighed. We know. You and your regulations.
Prince Nemsar? Lirem said, his left back hoof slamming, annoyed, against the floor. Japhar and Kerroth both flinched, while Athol's tail and stalk-eyes were beginning to twitch with rage. But all three were silent.
We have the word of my younger sister, Nemsar said.
And we can trust her, Merin added.
A word is not good enough, Kerroth snapped. A word can as well as a lie.
True, Jake said. But we also had an open rebellion on one of your fleet's Dome Ships, the River's Promise. It was caused by a traitor she named, a certain Karmil-Menathar-Tefil, a well-respected and trusted tactical officer, as well as more than half the crew. Among them, a nephew of Athol's… Tanlorin-Athol-Dralnan.
Do not speak of me as if I was not here! Athol hissed. His tail twitched, but the creature on the table watched him calmly, not showing the slightest bit of fear. And do not accuse my nephew of -
He tried to steal our Time Matrix, Rachel said. So shut up or I'll shut you up. Permanently.
Jarali saw the signs of rage on Athol's face and wondered. Athol had been accused of things before, and always met the accusations calmly. Jaruili disliked the D and A deeply, but a traitor? No. He would never have guessed.
I'm afraid this Council needs more proof than your words, Prince Nemsar, Lirem said coldly after the creature on the table had told the shaggy one to 'chill'. And if you do not convince us, you will be the one charged with treason. You, and any other Andalite involved in this. Do you understand?
Yes, Nemsar said. But Athol is a traitor, and I am not leaving this room until that is proven.
Neither will I, Jake said.
Then you'll be staying here a very, very long time, Athol spat. Lirem, could you tell these… these creatures… that -
Not so fast, Tarafor-Allonat-Fekaj, the Head of Sciences, said suddenly. He had been standing deep in his own thoughts, as usual. Someone mentioned 'Time Matrix' earlier. What was that about?
"This," one of the humans said, patting the sphere. "This is the Time Matrix."
And you are? Japhar asked.
"Tobias," he said. "I'm also from the human resistance."
Tarafor all of a sudden looked very interested in the discussion. His hands were trembling. Where did you get it?
"In the future. On Earth."
It's on Earth? Where?
"Do you think I'm stupid enough to tell you? No offence, but no Andalite is getting their hands on this thing. You have a tendency to overdo things, and who knows what you might do?"
And you humans? Jarali said, feeling a bit insulted - as the rest of the present Andalites. You do not have this… tendency?
"Maybe," Tobias said, shrugging. "All the same, we're the ones who've got it, and we're keeping it." Then his eyes narrowed. "Are you Jarali?"
The second human nodded. That's him, she said - in thought-speech, which caused some attention to be aimed at her. Attention she seemed to enjoy. From the refuge.
What refuge? Jarali asked.
"This discussion has taken a weird turn," Tobias said. "The refuge is the planet where the escaped Andalites live in the future. We're from that future. At least the tiger, the bear and us two humans…"
I'm Andalite, the second human objected.
"Sorry. But they did call me 'hawk' as well."
Why would we Andalites need a refuge? Yramil-Salarouth-Gendirir, the Head of History - and the only one ranking below Jarali - wondered.
Because your planet went bye-bye, Rachel snapped. Because you lost the war against the Yeerks.
Impossible! Athol cried.
Very possible, with a traitor as Head of Defence and Assault, Yramil disagreed.
Council members? What do you suggest? Lirem sighed.
I… Athol began, but was interrupted.
Your opinion doesn't count this time, Athol, Kerroth said. I say we should isolate him, take him out of the Council… until a trial can be held.
I agree, Tarafor said, and so did Japhar and Yramil.
I believe that could work, Jarali said finally. But who can guard him? If he is a traitor, who can we trust?
The human who had claimed to be an Andalite reached up and grabbed Nemsar's arm. She must have said something in thought-speech, because he nodded and two of his warriors were ordered to the sides of the Time Matrix.
He himself walked forwards, followed by both humans.
I have an idea, he said. We have gathered a number of traitors in a safe place…
Quite the collection, Rachel said, baring her teeth in what could be a smile.
Nemsar continued. We could take care of Athol as well for you, and return him later, when you need him. We have shackles that can hold him.
Done, Lerim said, looking relieved.
You even consider handing me over to them?! Athol roared.
Not 'consider', Athol, Japhar said, not hiding the smugness in his voice. 'Considered'.
The human reached into a backpack hung over her shoulder and pulled out a set of very weird shackles. We need to put these on, she said. Stay still, Athol.
She stepped forwards. Athol's tail exploded into action and the blade had almost reached her face when Nemsar blocked it. There was a short thought-speech shout and a few of the warriors came rushing up to help their Prince. But Nemsar needed no help; in three swipes he had beaten the Athol down to his knees and somehow locked the D and A's tail-blade in his own.
Well well well, Lerim said, eyes narrowed. It looks like you were right, Prince Nemsar.
Athol got to his hooves, stalks darting back and forth, face a mask of anger and worry. His tail was held securely by the blade.
Nice trick you've taught me, Larynia, Nemsar said to the human. Never thought it would work, but it actually does. Now shackle him.
Larynia snapped a sheath shut around Athol's tail-blade. She grabbed his arms, forced them easily into place behind his back and fastened each wrist to the other elbow, as well as tying the tail down to it all. Then she added the collar around his neck and handed the leash to Rachel.
Hello, traitor, said Rachel, grinning widely. She was demorphing, and so was the creature on the table. If you're nice, I'll be nice. Maybe.
"Do you believe us now, Lerim?" Jake asked. "Unmotivated attack, against what he knew was happening upon your orders."
Lerim nodded. The tense feeling in the room evaporated. The Head of Council put on his most ceremonial expression and his coldest gaze. In a low voice, he said; You are hereby relieved from your duties, Athol-Darilan-Jemili, as member of the War Council and as a leader of the Andalite fleet and military and as a model for the People. See yourself as a condemned traitor, because that is how you are seen. May you carry your tail low in your shame.
The other members repeated his words, the words of an ancient but seldom used ritual, and Athol looked more and more furious.
But Lerim sighed. Why, Athol?
Athol stopped moving. He froze in place, swivelled his stalk-eyes towards the Head of Council and suddenly looked sad. He had not expected that question. Not at all.
Because I saw it, he said in a barely audible whisper. I saw the defeat coming. I was Head of Defence and Assault, and… I knew we would lose.
So you decided to help them to it, Japhar spat, tail and stalks twitching.
No, Athol said, staring intently at the floor with all four eyes, still not moving. it was not simply because of that. They said… promised… they agreed to spare your family if you helped them.
"Yeerks aren't known for keeping promises," Jake pointed out.
Neither are Andalites, Athol replied fiercely, his shackled tail suddenly twisting. You don't understand. After what happened to my son… before I became Head of Defence and Assualt… three Dome ships sent on a suicide mission. They swore he'd be back. They gave their word. They promised. They PROMISED HE'D BE BACK!
Rachel, now human, led the sobbing former War Council member towards the Time Matrix. With a simple touch, she, Athol and the sphere were gone.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Author's note;
I could have made Athol "the supreme bad guy". But I decided not to. He's just another example of a strong soul who cracked. It's sad, really.
*Sigh*. Next part soon, as I always say. Except, this time I'll be away for a few days so it won't be THAT soon.
It's very near the end now. Only two or three left. Depends on how much I'm able to shorten it. *which I'm not very good at* And then there's the epilogue, which I'm already done with, fortunately. I'll put it up at the same time as the last chapter.
