Vera slept soundly in a bed, while Michael looked on. He remembered her
standing without the usual baggy shirt, with wings portruding from her
shoulders. Michael looked at her face, memorizing every sharp detail. She
looked so peaceful, so serene. A blush was spread across her cheeks, and
sweat collected on her brow from her fever. Her chest rose and fell with
her rhythmic breathing. Michael was just thankful she was okay.
" Wings..." he murmured to himself. He never would have guessed that Vera was descended from Atlantis. Van had taken him aside and explained a few things to him. Michael arched his eyebrows. There was more to this world than meets the eye. At the same time, it explained a lot of things. Like why Vera had never shown the remotest fear of heights. Michael wiped the sweat away from her forehead. The glistening dagger charm caught his eye. He remembered the many tears Vera had shed over that single thing.
" I love you." he whispered into the sleeping Vera's ears. Maybe she'll hear me in her dreams, he thought.
Merle paced the length of her bedroom. Her tail swished in her wake, leaving some of her lighter possessions askew. I am such an idiot, she thought. I am not in love. Maybe if she told herself that enough she would actually believe it. Deep inside her heart, however, Merle knew the truth. It was late, or rather, very early. Four in the morning.
*+*+*+
She came calling
One early morning
She showed her crown of thorns.
*+*+*+
I have to see him, she thought. She found him, Dromada, alone in the galley. A gentle blush spread across her face as she watched him. His leg muscles rippled as he walked, and his tail swished. He looked almost exactly like Zam, so much so, it was painful to watch him. Merle wanted to turn away and run, but an invisible force held her. Suddenly, Dromada scented her and turned to see her standing like a guilty kitten in the doorway. Embarrassment caused Merle's face to flush even more. The two stood totally still. Merle suddenly gained control of her limbs and turned to walk away, but Dromada reached out and caught her arm. He pulled her close to him, but the pain in Merle's heart wouldn't let her stay. She tried to pull away from him, but his grip was strong.
" What happened that night, to make you so afraid of what's happening between us?" he asked softly. Tears welled up as the memories Merle had hidden from herself for so long rose in her mind.
" He died..." she whispered, tears beginning to fall.
*+*+*+
She whispered softly
To tell a story
About how she had been wronged.
*+*+*+
Merle suddenly was back there, under the moonlight. It was supposed to be a romantic evening, just for the two of them. They were engaged, and everything was beautiful. And then the guymelifs came from above... Zam's dying moan... an evil face hidden by shadows... Merle looked up from her reverie to see Dromada's pitying but loving eyes. She realized she had just told him everything.
*+*+*+
As she lay lifeless
He stole her innocence
And this is how she carried on.
*+*+*+
Tears tumbled uncontrollably down Merle's face as she covered her face with her hands. Dromada wrapped his arms around her and took her hands away from her face. She sobbed hysterically now, crying to make up for all the sleepless nights when she wouldn't let herself cry.
*+*+*+
Well I guess she closed her eyes
And just imagined everything's alright
But she could not hide her tears
Cause they were sent to wash away those years
They were sent to wash away those years.
*+*+*+
Merle sobbed into Dromada's chest, and felt his arms squeeze her gently. He held her patiently but his heart pounded angrily next to Merle's ear. I smell anger, Dromada is angry, Merle thought. Why was he angry? But he still held her, letting her cry and soak his shirt.
*+*+*+
My anger's violent
But still I'm silent
When tragedy strikes at home.
*+*+*+
Merle continued to cry until her tears ran dry. Then she sat, snifling pitifully. I feel so stupid, she thought. She lifted her head and started to thank Dromada for being there, but he silenced her by putting his fingers to her lips. His fingers brushed her lips gently and Merle's heart leaped into her throat.
" Just remember you're not alone." he whispered softly.
*+*+*+
I know this decadence
Is shared by millions
Remember you're not alone.
*+*+*+
Merle felt a voltage between them. She felt Dromada's hands on the small of her back. She closed her eyes and felt Dromada's lips press against hers. He was purring loudly, but other than that Merle could hear nothing else. Her nostril were filled with his scent as he kissed her passionately.
*+*+*+
For we have crossed many oceans
And we've labored in between
In life, there aren't many quotients
And I hope I find the meaning.
*+*+*+
Merle felt Dromada's lips part from hers. She breathed in deeply. She slowly opened her eyes and stared into Dromada's.
" It's late." she said slowly. Dromada smiled.
" Actually, it early." he said, nodding to the sunlight streaming in the small window. Merle stared at it. " What's the matter? Haven't you ever seen sunlight before?" Dromada asked with a laugh. Merle continued to stare at the light.
" Not like this." she said. Dromada leaned down and kissed her cheek.
" Come on." he said gently, leading Merle out of the galley.
Vera's eyes slowly opened and she realized she wasn't on the Crusade. She sat up slowly and looked around. She was alone in an unfamiliar room. Vera moved every part of her body slowly, checking for injuries. In doing so, she found she was drenched in sweat. She also discovered her shirt was gone. Vera suddenly remembered the events of the day before and made a bold effort to stand up, only to topple back onto the bed. Just then, Hitomi walked in.
" Oh, you're awake. Good morning, Sweetie. How do you feel?" she asked lightly. Vera frowned.
" Sweaty and tired and... Where am I?" Vera asked, before finishing her list of things that were wrong with her. Hitomi smiled and leaned down and put the back of her hand against Vera's cheeks and forehead.
" Good, the fever's gone. On the Blade." she said patiently.
" Where's Michael?" Vera asked, anxiety enveloping her.
" He stayed with you all night until he couldn't keep his eyes open and then your father made him go to bed." Hitomi told Vera. Vera breathed a sigh of relief that didn't make it all the way out before she remembered something else.
" What about Folken?" she asked suddenly. Hitomi frowned distatsefully.
" He left. He had a long talk with your father, and then he left." she said simply, her tone of voice clearly stating that she wanted no more discussion on this subject. Vera decided it would be best not to pursue the matter. She slowly stood, this time staying on her feet.
" I'm going to take a shower." she said. Hitomi nodded and pointed to a door nearby.
" Right in there." she said. Vera walked into the bathroom and took her shower, cleansing her body of all the dirt and sweat she had managed to acquire. The warm water washed over her body and made her feel pleasantly clean and safe. Eventually, however, the hot water ran out and Vera had to get out. She dried her hair with a towel and dressed, stepping out of the bathroom. Her hair was still damp but she felt much better. Vera decided to go to the galley. On her way, Vera forgot she was on the Blade, not the Crusade, and made a wrong turn. She almost got lost, but she ran into Chuba who helped her out. Finally reaching her destination, Vera realized she was hungry. Tygris looked up from the meal she was eating and smiled at Vera.
" 'Morning, sleepy-head." she said teasingly. Vera grinned. " How do you feel?" Tygris asked.
" Much better. In fact, I could go for something to eat." she said, reaching for an orange. She ate it quickly and started on another. After she finished that one, Vera felt content. She sank into a chair next to Tygris.
" Michael came in here about half an hour ago and said to wake him up when you woke up. Poor guy, he looked like a zombie," Tygris said, her eyes sparkling. " I think I'll let you wake him up." Vera shook her head.
" No, he need's rest. I'll let him sleep a couple hours. He deserves it." she said confidently. Suddenly, Vera stood. " On the other hand, I think I will pay him a visit." she walked out of the room and stopped, remembering how she had gotten lost before. Tygris stepped up behind her.
" I'll show you how to find your way around. See that?" Tygris said, pointing towards a strip of red on the ceiling that flowed down one corridor. Vera nodded. " That's a direction strip. There are like five colors or so. Red will lead you to the storage bay. Blue," she intoned, pointing to another strip. " Will lead you to the docking bay. If you follow orange, you'll get to the personal quarters. The room Michael's in will have an orange light over it, which means someone's in there. If you want to get to the galley again, follow green and if you want to find the control room, follow purple. Got it?" Vera nodded again.
" Yeah, got it. See you." she said, turning and following the orange strip. The first door she came to had an orange light over it. Vera turned the knob gently and opened the door. She peeked through and saw Michael, fast asleep. He hadn't really bothered to change into his bed clothes. Vera could see his shirt tossed over a chair but that was all he had done to personalize the room. Vera stepped in and closed the door behind her. She leaned against the door and smiled at the sleeping figure. She straightened herself and tiptoed over to the bed and looked down at him. Michael smiled at something in his dream and shifted a little, but then settled down. Vera leaned down and kissed him gently, her lips barely grazing his. It was enough to wake Michael up though. He opened his eyes and smiled.
" Good morning." Vera whispered. Michael's grin broadened. He put his arms around her and pulled her down to him until she was laying next to him. Michael stroked her hair and kissed her cheeks, her forehead, her lips while Vera basked in his love. Michael finally pulled his head away from her.
" Why didn't you tell me you had wings?" he asked, now fully awake.
" Would you have believed me?" Vera retorted. Michael thought.
" No, I wouldn't have. Point taken." he admitted. He smiled and kissed her again. " I'm just glad you're safe again."
" Don't get to cozy, who knows if we're safe yet." Vera reminded him. Michael shrugged.
" Can't we be cozy for just a little while?" he asked, leaning in to kiss her again. Vera pulled her head back.
" Not until you answer one more question." she said reproachfully.
" Shoot." Michael said.
" What do you think of my wings?" Vera asked, her voice wavering a little. Michael smiled again.
" I think they're awesome." He said sincerely. Vera's eyes widened in shock.
" Really?" she asked, unsure of whether or not to believe him.
" Really." Michael said. " Now can I get cozy?" he asked, his pitch going up to whine level. Vera laughed and kissed him.
" Okay, but not too far. Got that, Michael?" she said sternly.
" Mmmm-hmmm." Michael said, pressing his lips against hers. Vera pulled back.
" I said, got that, Michael?" she said a little louder. Michael sighed.
" Yeah, yeah. I got it. I won't take it to far." he said dutifully. Vera smiled.
" Good." she said, wrapping her arms around his neck. Michael tightened his grip on her and kissed her.
Tygris leaned into Chuba. Her heart beat a little faster as he responded by wrapping his arms around her and kissed her on the cheek. Their breath mingled.
" Have you seen Dromada?" Chuba asked.
" Nope." Tygris responded, contentment radiating in her voice. Chuba shifted a little make himself more comfortable.
" Come to think of it, I haven't seen Merle either." he noted. Tygris craned her neck to look up at him and Chuba looked down at her. The two smiled broadly.
" You don't think..." Chuba started.
" They couldn't..." Tygris began. The two broke into laughter.
" Merle and Dromada. Who would have thought?" Chuba said in between gasps for breath.
" Yeah, but when you think about it, they make a good match." Tygris said, wiping tears away from her eyes. Chuba smiled and pulled Tygris close.
" Are we a good match?" he asked quietly. Tygris relaxed into his grip and and looked up at him.
" You bet." she said happily. Chuba kissed her and then stood.
" I'm starved. It's about dinner time, so I'm going to get something to eat. Coming?" Chuba asked. Tygris watched him walk away, his golden fur rippling.
" You can bet Speed Demon I'm coming." She said, referring to Chuba's guymelif. Chuba laughed and put his arm around her as they walked down the corridor to the galley.
Dromada watched Merle sleep. She seemed so content and satisfyed now, asleep without any horrible dreams haunting her. He contemplated what she had told him. A sigh escaped his throat and he turned his head away so he wouldn't wake Merle. All the evidence pointed to Tygir. Tygir had been Dromada's best friend when they were young. Dromada could remember the vibrant young cat-man he had met in his home village, where he probably would have stayed if Tygir had not met him. He had been fifteen then and the war with Zaiboch was heavily under way. Dromada had decided to leave his home for a little while to adventure with Tygir. He had come back a month later to find his home in ruins and his mother, father, two little sisters, and little brother dead. A bitter Dromada had pledged revenge and left his childhood home forever. Dromada remembered when Tygir had met Tasha, a pretty cat-girl with white fur striped with black, like a white tiger's. They had married and had a daughter. And then, Tasha died suddenly from a mysterious disease. After that, Tygir was never the same. He fought with Dromada constantly and had made everyone's lives a living nightmare. His own daughter had grown up hating him. Tygris was lucky to have Chuba around, the youth they had picked up from the tattered remants of a destroyed village shortly after Tasha's death. Without Chuba, Tygris might have grown up exactly like her father. And now, the evil inside of Tygir that had been growing since Tasha's death had finally reared it's ugly head. Merle shifted and Dromada awoke from his reverie. Hunger suddeny made his stomach talk and Dromada stood silently. He stalked out of the room without a noise and made his way to the galley. He grabbed some jerky and started back to his quarters where Merle was asleep. He was suddenly overcome by the urge to be near her, so he ran the rest of the way. He softly opened the door and stepped inside. Click. A wince overcame Dromada's face. He had closed the door too loudly. Merle sat up with a confused look on her face.
" Dromada?" she asked, unsure of what to do. Dromada tossed the rest of his jerky on a small table and made his way over to Merle. He crawled onto the bed beside her and wrapped his large arms around her. She's so small, he thought. It was true. Merle was very small next to Dromada. But she fit into his arms perfectly, snuggling up against him. In no time at all, she was drifting back to sleep. Dromada shook her gently.
" Wake up, kitten. You need some excersice." He whispered. Merle moaned and buried her face into Dromada's chest. He managed to talk her into going for a walk to the control room. Halfway there, the ship was hit with something large, making the whole thing shudder and sway.
" Come on!" Dromada yelled over the groaning of the ship, grabbing Merle's hand and pulling her towards the control room. Inside, he found Van and Allen looking avidly for their attacker.
" What was that?" Dromada asked. Neither human even turned to him.
" Don't know. I saw a flash of metal before we were attacked." Van said, his voice barely containing the rage and fear. He had every reason to be afraid. He had a wife and daughter to defend. Of course, his daughter had Michael and her own skills to protect her. Two pairs of teens rushed in, followed closely by Hitomi. Vera rushed up to the glass and pressed her face against it, searching. In not time, Vera's keen eyesight had located their attacker.
" There!" she cried pointing. Murmurs ran through the room as everyone rushed to get a look.
" That's Tiger God!" Chuba yelled. Tygris's face suddenly turned sour. Crew men took the helm and prepared for battle manuevers. Dromada started to the door. He felt Merle suddenly latch onto his arm.
" Where are you going?" she asked.
" To ask Tygir a few questions." Dromada replied, gently pulling his arm away. He leaned down and kissed her gently. " I'll be back." he whispered. He then turned and walked away. As soon as he was out of the control room, he ran. He knew that the only guymelifs they had that could even compare to Tiger God were Escaflowne and Jaws of Death, his own. Dromada felt the anger return. He climbed into Jaws of Death and felt the giant come to life at his touch. He powered up the flight engines and heard mechanical movements behind him. It was Van, preparing Escaflowne. Dromada didn't care since Jaws of Death was a weaker flyer than Tiger God and would probably be out-manuevered. At least now Dromada had back up.
" Stay behind me. I want to see if I can talk to him first." Dromada called back. He turned his head to see Van nodding his agreement, Hitomi latched onto his waist. Escaflowne was in dragon form. Dromada wrenched his awed gaze away from the magnificent machine and concentrated on getting out of the docking bay. As he exited, he deepened his concentration. For a guymelif like Jaws of Death, the instant after it leaves the bay of an airship is a do=angerous one, for the sudden change of air currents could send the guymelif tumbling. Dromada kept his balance and flew towards Tiger God. The guymelif seemed to watch him come waiting for him. Now it was obvious to Dromada how Tygir had attacked the Blade. He had thrown one of his two maces at the ship, and now held the other in his hand ready to be hurled at the first thing he saw fit. Dromada slowly approached.
" Tygir. What are you doing?" he called out. Tiger God made no movement.
" What does it look like I'm doing?" Tygir called back sarcastically.
" Something stupid." Dromada retorted. " Don't attack your own ship. Your daughter is on there." Dromada was desperate now. If Tygir decided to launch a full attack, he could do so easily and not have to worry about any competition. Escaflowne was an awesome fighter, but was weaker in flight mode. Jaws of Death was helpless when out maneuvered.
" So?" Tygir scoffed. Dromada decided to try a different approach.
" Why are you doing this, Tygir? Hurting your own daughter? What's gotten into you?" Dromada asked. Tygir suddenly laughed. It was an evil sound, sending chills up Dromada's spine.
" I just figured out where the real winning side was, that's all. Haven't you figured it out yet? You're losing the war. Sure, this little bunch of you has managed to stay alive, but what about elsewhere? You always were stupid when it came to battle, Dromada. It's over. This world has a new ruler. And with that idiot brat Zensho out of the way, I can take over. I thank Vera for that. I will not let anyone stand in my way. Not you, not Zensho, not Tygris, not that pompous King of Fanelia behind you, not anyone." Tygir cried. He laughed again and Dromada shuddered.
" What happened, Tygir?" Dromada asked. " What happened? You used to be a great man, somebody who was a good leader. But now, look at you. You're a monster. You're unfit for any leadership role, and I'm sorry I didn't realize that sooner. I'm sorry I made Tygris and Chuba put up with you. I should have taken them and left you behind. If only Tasha could see you now, Tygir. Then what would you do?" Tygir jerked inside his guymelif, making the giant twitch.
" News flash, Dromada. She's dead." Tygir said, but his voice cracked a little. Dromada sensed this weakness.
" You say we're losing, but do really believe that yourself? I don't think so. If we were half as weak as you say we are, you would have killed us all by now." Dromada said. Tygir straightened his guymelif and turned toward Dromada.
" By the way, Dromada. How do you like Merle? Not bad, is she?" Tygir said. Dromada reeled back. His chest heaved and his head felt like it was going to explode. He roared, a terrifying, frightening sound that made the two humans behind him jerk and move a little farther away. Dromada was in near panic. He whirled and shot his flame throwers, his roar echoing through the night air and his eyes squeezed shut. When he opened them, Tygir was gone, disappeared into the night.
" Wings..." he murmured to himself. He never would have guessed that Vera was descended from Atlantis. Van had taken him aside and explained a few things to him. Michael arched his eyebrows. There was more to this world than meets the eye. At the same time, it explained a lot of things. Like why Vera had never shown the remotest fear of heights. Michael wiped the sweat away from her forehead. The glistening dagger charm caught his eye. He remembered the many tears Vera had shed over that single thing.
" I love you." he whispered into the sleeping Vera's ears. Maybe she'll hear me in her dreams, he thought.
Merle paced the length of her bedroom. Her tail swished in her wake, leaving some of her lighter possessions askew. I am such an idiot, she thought. I am not in love. Maybe if she told herself that enough she would actually believe it. Deep inside her heart, however, Merle knew the truth. It was late, or rather, very early. Four in the morning.
*+*+*+
She came calling
One early morning
She showed her crown of thorns.
*+*+*+
I have to see him, she thought. She found him, Dromada, alone in the galley. A gentle blush spread across her face as she watched him. His leg muscles rippled as he walked, and his tail swished. He looked almost exactly like Zam, so much so, it was painful to watch him. Merle wanted to turn away and run, but an invisible force held her. Suddenly, Dromada scented her and turned to see her standing like a guilty kitten in the doorway. Embarrassment caused Merle's face to flush even more. The two stood totally still. Merle suddenly gained control of her limbs and turned to walk away, but Dromada reached out and caught her arm. He pulled her close to him, but the pain in Merle's heart wouldn't let her stay. She tried to pull away from him, but his grip was strong.
" What happened that night, to make you so afraid of what's happening between us?" he asked softly. Tears welled up as the memories Merle had hidden from herself for so long rose in her mind.
" He died..." she whispered, tears beginning to fall.
*+*+*+
She whispered softly
To tell a story
About how she had been wronged.
*+*+*+
Merle suddenly was back there, under the moonlight. It was supposed to be a romantic evening, just for the two of them. They were engaged, and everything was beautiful. And then the guymelifs came from above... Zam's dying moan... an evil face hidden by shadows... Merle looked up from her reverie to see Dromada's pitying but loving eyes. She realized she had just told him everything.
*+*+*+
As she lay lifeless
He stole her innocence
And this is how she carried on.
*+*+*+
Tears tumbled uncontrollably down Merle's face as she covered her face with her hands. Dromada wrapped his arms around her and took her hands away from her face. She sobbed hysterically now, crying to make up for all the sleepless nights when she wouldn't let herself cry.
*+*+*+
Well I guess she closed her eyes
And just imagined everything's alright
But she could not hide her tears
Cause they were sent to wash away those years
They were sent to wash away those years.
*+*+*+
Merle sobbed into Dromada's chest, and felt his arms squeeze her gently. He held her patiently but his heart pounded angrily next to Merle's ear. I smell anger, Dromada is angry, Merle thought. Why was he angry? But he still held her, letting her cry and soak his shirt.
*+*+*+
My anger's violent
But still I'm silent
When tragedy strikes at home.
*+*+*+
Merle continued to cry until her tears ran dry. Then she sat, snifling pitifully. I feel so stupid, she thought. She lifted her head and started to thank Dromada for being there, but he silenced her by putting his fingers to her lips. His fingers brushed her lips gently and Merle's heart leaped into her throat.
" Just remember you're not alone." he whispered softly.
*+*+*+
I know this decadence
Is shared by millions
Remember you're not alone.
*+*+*+
Merle felt a voltage between them. She felt Dromada's hands on the small of her back. She closed her eyes and felt Dromada's lips press against hers. He was purring loudly, but other than that Merle could hear nothing else. Her nostril were filled with his scent as he kissed her passionately.
*+*+*+
For we have crossed many oceans
And we've labored in between
In life, there aren't many quotients
And I hope I find the meaning.
*+*+*+
Merle felt Dromada's lips part from hers. She breathed in deeply. She slowly opened her eyes and stared into Dromada's.
" It's late." she said slowly. Dromada smiled.
" Actually, it early." he said, nodding to the sunlight streaming in the small window. Merle stared at it. " What's the matter? Haven't you ever seen sunlight before?" Dromada asked with a laugh. Merle continued to stare at the light.
" Not like this." she said. Dromada leaned down and kissed her cheek.
" Come on." he said gently, leading Merle out of the galley.
Vera's eyes slowly opened and she realized she wasn't on the Crusade. She sat up slowly and looked around. She was alone in an unfamiliar room. Vera moved every part of her body slowly, checking for injuries. In doing so, she found she was drenched in sweat. She also discovered her shirt was gone. Vera suddenly remembered the events of the day before and made a bold effort to stand up, only to topple back onto the bed. Just then, Hitomi walked in.
" Oh, you're awake. Good morning, Sweetie. How do you feel?" she asked lightly. Vera frowned.
" Sweaty and tired and... Where am I?" Vera asked, before finishing her list of things that were wrong with her. Hitomi smiled and leaned down and put the back of her hand against Vera's cheeks and forehead.
" Good, the fever's gone. On the Blade." she said patiently.
" Where's Michael?" Vera asked, anxiety enveloping her.
" He stayed with you all night until he couldn't keep his eyes open and then your father made him go to bed." Hitomi told Vera. Vera breathed a sigh of relief that didn't make it all the way out before she remembered something else.
" What about Folken?" she asked suddenly. Hitomi frowned distatsefully.
" He left. He had a long talk with your father, and then he left." she said simply, her tone of voice clearly stating that she wanted no more discussion on this subject. Vera decided it would be best not to pursue the matter. She slowly stood, this time staying on her feet.
" I'm going to take a shower." she said. Hitomi nodded and pointed to a door nearby.
" Right in there." she said. Vera walked into the bathroom and took her shower, cleansing her body of all the dirt and sweat she had managed to acquire. The warm water washed over her body and made her feel pleasantly clean and safe. Eventually, however, the hot water ran out and Vera had to get out. She dried her hair with a towel and dressed, stepping out of the bathroom. Her hair was still damp but she felt much better. Vera decided to go to the galley. On her way, Vera forgot she was on the Blade, not the Crusade, and made a wrong turn. She almost got lost, but she ran into Chuba who helped her out. Finally reaching her destination, Vera realized she was hungry. Tygris looked up from the meal she was eating and smiled at Vera.
" 'Morning, sleepy-head." she said teasingly. Vera grinned. " How do you feel?" Tygris asked.
" Much better. In fact, I could go for something to eat." she said, reaching for an orange. She ate it quickly and started on another. After she finished that one, Vera felt content. She sank into a chair next to Tygris.
" Michael came in here about half an hour ago and said to wake him up when you woke up. Poor guy, he looked like a zombie," Tygris said, her eyes sparkling. " I think I'll let you wake him up." Vera shook her head.
" No, he need's rest. I'll let him sleep a couple hours. He deserves it." she said confidently. Suddenly, Vera stood. " On the other hand, I think I will pay him a visit." she walked out of the room and stopped, remembering how she had gotten lost before. Tygris stepped up behind her.
" I'll show you how to find your way around. See that?" Tygris said, pointing towards a strip of red on the ceiling that flowed down one corridor. Vera nodded. " That's a direction strip. There are like five colors or so. Red will lead you to the storage bay. Blue," she intoned, pointing to another strip. " Will lead you to the docking bay. If you follow orange, you'll get to the personal quarters. The room Michael's in will have an orange light over it, which means someone's in there. If you want to get to the galley again, follow green and if you want to find the control room, follow purple. Got it?" Vera nodded again.
" Yeah, got it. See you." she said, turning and following the orange strip. The first door she came to had an orange light over it. Vera turned the knob gently and opened the door. She peeked through and saw Michael, fast asleep. He hadn't really bothered to change into his bed clothes. Vera could see his shirt tossed over a chair but that was all he had done to personalize the room. Vera stepped in and closed the door behind her. She leaned against the door and smiled at the sleeping figure. She straightened herself and tiptoed over to the bed and looked down at him. Michael smiled at something in his dream and shifted a little, but then settled down. Vera leaned down and kissed him gently, her lips barely grazing his. It was enough to wake Michael up though. He opened his eyes and smiled.
" Good morning." Vera whispered. Michael's grin broadened. He put his arms around her and pulled her down to him until she was laying next to him. Michael stroked her hair and kissed her cheeks, her forehead, her lips while Vera basked in his love. Michael finally pulled his head away from her.
" Why didn't you tell me you had wings?" he asked, now fully awake.
" Would you have believed me?" Vera retorted. Michael thought.
" No, I wouldn't have. Point taken." he admitted. He smiled and kissed her again. " I'm just glad you're safe again."
" Don't get to cozy, who knows if we're safe yet." Vera reminded him. Michael shrugged.
" Can't we be cozy for just a little while?" he asked, leaning in to kiss her again. Vera pulled her head back.
" Not until you answer one more question." she said reproachfully.
" Shoot." Michael said.
" What do you think of my wings?" Vera asked, her voice wavering a little. Michael smiled again.
" I think they're awesome." He said sincerely. Vera's eyes widened in shock.
" Really?" she asked, unsure of whether or not to believe him.
" Really." Michael said. " Now can I get cozy?" he asked, his pitch going up to whine level. Vera laughed and kissed him.
" Okay, but not too far. Got that, Michael?" she said sternly.
" Mmmm-hmmm." Michael said, pressing his lips against hers. Vera pulled back.
" I said, got that, Michael?" she said a little louder. Michael sighed.
" Yeah, yeah. I got it. I won't take it to far." he said dutifully. Vera smiled.
" Good." she said, wrapping her arms around his neck. Michael tightened his grip on her and kissed her.
Tygris leaned into Chuba. Her heart beat a little faster as he responded by wrapping his arms around her and kissed her on the cheek. Their breath mingled.
" Have you seen Dromada?" Chuba asked.
" Nope." Tygris responded, contentment radiating in her voice. Chuba shifted a little make himself more comfortable.
" Come to think of it, I haven't seen Merle either." he noted. Tygris craned her neck to look up at him and Chuba looked down at her. The two smiled broadly.
" You don't think..." Chuba started.
" They couldn't..." Tygris began. The two broke into laughter.
" Merle and Dromada. Who would have thought?" Chuba said in between gasps for breath.
" Yeah, but when you think about it, they make a good match." Tygris said, wiping tears away from her eyes. Chuba smiled and pulled Tygris close.
" Are we a good match?" he asked quietly. Tygris relaxed into his grip and and looked up at him.
" You bet." she said happily. Chuba kissed her and then stood.
" I'm starved. It's about dinner time, so I'm going to get something to eat. Coming?" Chuba asked. Tygris watched him walk away, his golden fur rippling.
" You can bet Speed Demon I'm coming." She said, referring to Chuba's guymelif. Chuba laughed and put his arm around her as they walked down the corridor to the galley.
Dromada watched Merle sleep. She seemed so content and satisfyed now, asleep without any horrible dreams haunting her. He contemplated what she had told him. A sigh escaped his throat and he turned his head away so he wouldn't wake Merle. All the evidence pointed to Tygir. Tygir had been Dromada's best friend when they were young. Dromada could remember the vibrant young cat-man he had met in his home village, where he probably would have stayed if Tygir had not met him. He had been fifteen then and the war with Zaiboch was heavily under way. Dromada had decided to leave his home for a little while to adventure with Tygir. He had come back a month later to find his home in ruins and his mother, father, two little sisters, and little brother dead. A bitter Dromada had pledged revenge and left his childhood home forever. Dromada remembered when Tygir had met Tasha, a pretty cat-girl with white fur striped with black, like a white tiger's. They had married and had a daughter. And then, Tasha died suddenly from a mysterious disease. After that, Tygir was never the same. He fought with Dromada constantly and had made everyone's lives a living nightmare. His own daughter had grown up hating him. Tygris was lucky to have Chuba around, the youth they had picked up from the tattered remants of a destroyed village shortly after Tasha's death. Without Chuba, Tygris might have grown up exactly like her father. And now, the evil inside of Tygir that had been growing since Tasha's death had finally reared it's ugly head. Merle shifted and Dromada awoke from his reverie. Hunger suddeny made his stomach talk and Dromada stood silently. He stalked out of the room without a noise and made his way to the galley. He grabbed some jerky and started back to his quarters where Merle was asleep. He was suddenly overcome by the urge to be near her, so he ran the rest of the way. He softly opened the door and stepped inside. Click. A wince overcame Dromada's face. He had closed the door too loudly. Merle sat up with a confused look on her face.
" Dromada?" she asked, unsure of what to do. Dromada tossed the rest of his jerky on a small table and made his way over to Merle. He crawled onto the bed beside her and wrapped his large arms around her. She's so small, he thought. It was true. Merle was very small next to Dromada. But she fit into his arms perfectly, snuggling up against him. In no time at all, she was drifting back to sleep. Dromada shook her gently.
" Wake up, kitten. You need some excersice." He whispered. Merle moaned and buried her face into Dromada's chest. He managed to talk her into going for a walk to the control room. Halfway there, the ship was hit with something large, making the whole thing shudder and sway.
" Come on!" Dromada yelled over the groaning of the ship, grabbing Merle's hand and pulling her towards the control room. Inside, he found Van and Allen looking avidly for their attacker.
" What was that?" Dromada asked. Neither human even turned to him.
" Don't know. I saw a flash of metal before we were attacked." Van said, his voice barely containing the rage and fear. He had every reason to be afraid. He had a wife and daughter to defend. Of course, his daughter had Michael and her own skills to protect her. Two pairs of teens rushed in, followed closely by Hitomi. Vera rushed up to the glass and pressed her face against it, searching. In not time, Vera's keen eyesight had located their attacker.
" There!" she cried pointing. Murmurs ran through the room as everyone rushed to get a look.
" That's Tiger God!" Chuba yelled. Tygris's face suddenly turned sour. Crew men took the helm and prepared for battle manuevers. Dromada started to the door. He felt Merle suddenly latch onto his arm.
" Where are you going?" she asked.
" To ask Tygir a few questions." Dromada replied, gently pulling his arm away. He leaned down and kissed her gently. " I'll be back." he whispered. He then turned and walked away. As soon as he was out of the control room, he ran. He knew that the only guymelifs they had that could even compare to Tiger God were Escaflowne and Jaws of Death, his own. Dromada felt the anger return. He climbed into Jaws of Death and felt the giant come to life at his touch. He powered up the flight engines and heard mechanical movements behind him. It was Van, preparing Escaflowne. Dromada didn't care since Jaws of Death was a weaker flyer than Tiger God and would probably be out-manuevered. At least now Dromada had back up.
" Stay behind me. I want to see if I can talk to him first." Dromada called back. He turned his head to see Van nodding his agreement, Hitomi latched onto his waist. Escaflowne was in dragon form. Dromada wrenched his awed gaze away from the magnificent machine and concentrated on getting out of the docking bay. As he exited, he deepened his concentration. For a guymelif like Jaws of Death, the instant after it leaves the bay of an airship is a do=angerous one, for the sudden change of air currents could send the guymelif tumbling. Dromada kept his balance and flew towards Tiger God. The guymelif seemed to watch him come waiting for him. Now it was obvious to Dromada how Tygir had attacked the Blade. He had thrown one of his two maces at the ship, and now held the other in his hand ready to be hurled at the first thing he saw fit. Dromada slowly approached.
" Tygir. What are you doing?" he called out. Tiger God made no movement.
" What does it look like I'm doing?" Tygir called back sarcastically.
" Something stupid." Dromada retorted. " Don't attack your own ship. Your daughter is on there." Dromada was desperate now. If Tygir decided to launch a full attack, he could do so easily and not have to worry about any competition. Escaflowne was an awesome fighter, but was weaker in flight mode. Jaws of Death was helpless when out maneuvered.
" So?" Tygir scoffed. Dromada decided to try a different approach.
" Why are you doing this, Tygir? Hurting your own daughter? What's gotten into you?" Dromada asked. Tygir suddenly laughed. It was an evil sound, sending chills up Dromada's spine.
" I just figured out where the real winning side was, that's all. Haven't you figured it out yet? You're losing the war. Sure, this little bunch of you has managed to stay alive, but what about elsewhere? You always were stupid when it came to battle, Dromada. It's over. This world has a new ruler. And with that idiot brat Zensho out of the way, I can take over. I thank Vera for that. I will not let anyone stand in my way. Not you, not Zensho, not Tygris, not that pompous King of Fanelia behind you, not anyone." Tygir cried. He laughed again and Dromada shuddered.
" What happened, Tygir?" Dromada asked. " What happened? You used to be a great man, somebody who was a good leader. But now, look at you. You're a monster. You're unfit for any leadership role, and I'm sorry I didn't realize that sooner. I'm sorry I made Tygris and Chuba put up with you. I should have taken them and left you behind. If only Tasha could see you now, Tygir. Then what would you do?" Tygir jerked inside his guymelif, making the giant twitch.
" News flash, Dromada. She's dead." Tygir said, but his voice cracked a little. Dromada sensed this weakness.
" You say we're losing, but do really believe that yourself? I don't think so. If we were half as weak as you say we are, you would have killed us all by now." Dromada said. Tygir straightened his guymelif and turned toward Dromada.
" By the way, Dromada. How do you like Merle? Not bad, is she?" Tygir said. Dromada reeled back. His chest heaved and his head felt like it was going to explode. He roared, a terrifying, frightening sound that made the two humans behind him jerk and move a little farther away. Dromada was in near panic. He whirled and shot his flame throwers, his roar echoing through the night air and his eyes squeezed shut. When he opened them, Tygir was gone, disappeared into the night.