The Beginning of the End
Part 4
"An Old Beginning"
INTERROGATION ROOM
The room had the look of a Peacekeeper interrogation chamber, with an Aurora Chair sitting dead center. Most Aurora Chairs had a small circular view screen attached. The view screen for this chair however was neither small nor was it attached to the chair. The viewer, a very large rectangular flat monitor was attached to the wall opposite the chair. Corinth explained. "This room is usually used by the Council when an enemy is captured, they are brought here. The larger screen accommodates multiple pairs of eyes, as you will find out."
"So you are no better than the Peacekeepers!" D'Argo snarled. "Using the same torture devices."
"Don't be naïve, Luxan! Do you think we survive out here on our own perfect manners? No! We survive because when it comes to our enemies we [I]are[/I] ruthless!" Corinth snapped in return, his nerves already taut at the thought of the pain Serrca was soon to endure.
"But you have Seekers. Why not use their powers or abilities or whatever you call it." Crichton asked. Disgust flavored every word he spoke.
"You do realize that all Seekers are female? Why should we use our women that way? Every time one of the Seekers uses their gift to interrogate an enemy, their body literally absorbs the poison of any malicious feelings or thoughts, so imagine the poison of hatred that our enemies must have for us. In the beginning we did use our Seekers but they began falling ill even dying occasionally. We decided to use the Aurora Chair. We use it on our enemies, not on each other. Therefore we are [I]nothing[/I] like the Peacekeepers!"
Serrca spoke quietly. "Corinth is right, Peacekeepers would have imprisoned you or worse killed you. We saved you."
"Yeah, because of Aeryn." Chiana's voice cracked with emotions.
"In spite of her, actually." Serrca admitted. "We could have gotten Aeryn anytime during your capture and left the rest of you but the Council wanted you all for various reasons."
"Reasons we still have yet to be told of." D'Argo added.
"They will tell you in their own time." Serrca allowed Corinth to strap her hands to the chair.
"When will that be?" Chiana asked.
Aeryn stared at Serrca for a moment then spoke. "When they are sure of our loyalties and John's abilities." Aeryn surprised everyone with her response. "They want to know just how much John knows about maneuvering the wormholes."
"Very good Aeryn." Serrca whispered, letting her head fall back against the head support of the chair.
Crichton leaned over to Aeryn. "How did you know that?"
Aeryn looked confused for a moment. "I don't know. The images were just there in my head all of a sudden."
"Yeah, but how?"
"Aeryn was born of a Seeker and a Guardian, fully trained her abilities are stronger than either her mother's or mine. The longer she stays near her mother and me, the stronger her gifts become. Because of her physical contact with Serrca on Suddath's Command Carrier, she is able to receive images and thoughts from all of those she desires."
"You mean she's like some sort of radar?" Crichton asked.
"Something like that." Corinth smiled.
D'Argo spoke up. "What does the Council want with the wormhole information?"
Corinth waved D'Argo's question away. "All of your questions will be answered in time and by the Council itself. Now however, we have something else to accomplish." Corinth leaned down to speak softly to Serrca. "Are you sure about this?"
"Yes." Came the steady response.
"Alright then let us begin. " Corinth moved to stand behind the chair's control panel. He pressed a series of buttons necessary to start the chair. Every head turned toward the screen, every head except Aeryn's; her first glance was at Serrca. She watched as Serrca's body slammed against restraints of the chair and tears began to stream from her eyes. She barely heard Serrca's tortured words.
"Watch your beginning and then tell me if you were loved and wanted Aeryn Sun." Aeryn turned toward the screen in time to catch sight of a beautiful raven-haired child.
THE BEGINNING
The child's screams woke the entire household. Her nurse was the first to reach her. "Little Ahni, what is the matter?"
Ahni reached out with small thin arms for the comfort that only her nurse and grandparents ever gave. "I saw him again! The boy! They're hurting him.we have to save him Treya!"
Treya stared at her young charge; Serrca Ahni Sun was the youngest third year cadet in Peacekeeper history. She was barely six cycles and already training with students three to five cycles older than herself. While the child's intelligence and skills were the pride of the Peacekeeper, her gifts as a Seeker were the joy of Sebacea-Tran. "Sweetling you know what your father told you about the night visions, you are not allowed to use them outside of Peacekeeper Command."
Admiral Reynar Sun entered his youngest grandchild's bedroom in time to hear Treya's words. "She can not help the call of the night visions." He reached down to remove the delicate child from her nurse's lap, and then settled her into the cradle of his arms. He truly love this beautiful child, she was always so full of life, goodness and affection. He and her grandmother couldn't help spoiling her. They had tried with her sister Phaedra but once Ahni was born, Phaedra became bitterer with each passing cycle. She begrudged her sister the smallest affection and became unresponsive when Serrca's Seeking abilities began to develop. Because of his rank and that of his mate, Mirja, they were allowed to have their granddaughters three times a cycle; this arrangement no longer worked. Reynar knew it was a matter of time before he lost Phaedra completely; she was intent on becoming the perfect Peacekeeper that her parents had become.
"Sir I'm sorry if Ahni disturbed you, I will settle her." Treya didn't want the Admiral to think that she was deficient in her abilities to care for the child. The Sun family was one of the most powerful families on Sebacea- Tran and in High Command. To be dismissed from their employ would mean exile. Ahni's father, Captain Camroha Sun, had already threatened her with dismissal.
Reynar waved Treya away. "It's alright you may go to your rest Treya, I will settle this little Bhanta bug." His wiggling fingers causing Ahni to giggle.
Ahni turned to watch Treya leave. "Don't worry Treya, grandfather won't let Father punish you." She turned back to stare up into her grandfather's eyes. "Will you?"
"No Sweetling." He spoke to the nervous little nurse. "Do not worry Treya, now seek your bed."
"Thank you sir." Treya sighed in relief and bowed out of the room. Closing the door. "Now tell me about this [I]night vision[/I]." Reynar always took Ahni's visions seriously. Since she'd begun her training, her visions were becoming more detailed.
"I saw him again." Ahni burrowed deeper into her grandfather's embrace.
"Who child? Whom did you see?" her leaned in closer for her answer.
"The Lazzar boy." The child whispered, still afraid of what her visions had revealed.
"The Lazzar boy?" Reynar's confusion registered a moment before realization ht. "Do you mean Admiral Lazzar's grandson?"
The child shook her head emphatically, happy that finally someone understood this vision and believed her. She had been plagued with the same vision for over half a cycle, a vision no one cared to understand. "They're hurting him!"
"Who?" Reynar held his breath. Could this child, his own granddaughter know the actual whereabouts of Corinth Lazzar? Corinth Lazzar, grandson of one of the most powerful men in High Command, had been missing for over a half cycle. The boy had disappeared while out on maneuvers with his unit. No word had come from his captors, leaving his family and the Peacekeeper High Command to believe that the boy was dead.
"The Scarrans, they have him! They want him to mold time for them. So that they can arrive through the portal in earlier times and surprise the Peacekeepers!" Ahni described her vision in great detail. When she was done, her grandfather carried her to bed, tucking her in with a kiss. "Ahni, I have to tell Corinth's grandfather. He may need your help."
"I will help grandfather." Ahni closed her eyes, yawned and with the innocents of youth rolled over onto her stomach and fell promptly to sleep.
TWO SOLAR DAYS LATER
"Are you sure that the child saw him Reynar?" Admiral Maxus Lazzar paced the grand chamber of his best friends home. He'd received the message while out searching and had rushed to his friend for more information.
"Yes my friend according to Serrca, she has been having this vision for half a cycle, but that none of her instructors were interested. She was even punished a couple of times for telling their superiors, who still ignored her." Reynar's voice dropped. "Serrca is ready to Seek."
Maxus whirled around to face his longtime friend and brother in arms. The two had been friends since they had begun their Peacekeeper training. Both men had risen through the ranks at a speed unmatched by any other that is until their grandchildren had begun their own training. "She will give me the names of those who ignored and punished her, they will answer to me!" Maxus shook his head. "I should have known that the Scarrans were behind this."
As Ahni was favored by her grandparents, so to was Corinth by his. Maxus would stop at nothing to get his grandson back. With the help of Admiral Sun and his granddaughter-Sebacea's most promising Seeker, he would succeed. "We must leave soon. I pray my grandson is still alive!" Maxus stopped, thinking of the danger that the child would face. "Has Ahni ever attempted to journey into the Realm Sleep?"
"Only in training, this will be her first attempt in the field. Did you bring some of Corinth's personal effects?" Reynar asked. He was also worried about his young granddaughter.
"Yes, they are still on the ship. How soon will she be ready for travel?'
A small but confident voice answered. "I'm ready now sir!" The two men turned to face the delicately, beautiful, raven-haired child. She stood at full attention in the presence of the Admirals, in full Peacekeeper dress. Her grandmother stood behind her.
"I have chosen to accompany her." Mirja raised her chin slightly, daring her husband to defy her, which he promptly did.
"Mirja, I forbid it!" He was already allowing his beloved granddaughter to enter Scarran Space.
"Ha! Forbid, I think not! Do not bother to argue. Serrca submitted a formal request a solar day ago and the Council has agreed. The Peacekeepers have no say!" Mirja stared at her husband with a quick little smile. "This is Serrca's first time out in the field as a Seeker. I will be able to guide her through the Realm Sleep. It is unfortunate that I can not share in her vision, I would be able to perform the ritual myself."
"The Peacekeepers have more of a say than you realize." Reynar glanced down at his granddaughter's stormy expression. He was going to loose this battle. With a sigh he gave in. "Fine, since it appears that we are all ready to travel, let us leave."
UNCHARTED TERRITORIES
Serrca moved through the swirling tunnel that bridged realities and allowed her to be in two places at one time. While her physical body remained on the Admiral's Marauder, her incorporeal form traveled effortlessly through time seeking the temporal signature of Corinth Lazzar. Once she located his signature she entered the portal that open into his reality. She walked from the tunnel into a small cell where a young man of seventeen cycles lay. The young man moaned softly and turned to face Serrca. "Who the frell are you?"
Serrca was surprised that Corinth could even see her. "You can see me?" Unless she chose to reveal her presence while in her incorporeal form, most could not see or detect her.
"Yes.who are you?" Corinth gasped; his entire body ached.
"My name is Serrca Ahni Sun. I'm here to help you. I have to find the coordinates for this base and inform our grandfathers." Serrca answered, allowing her mind and eyes to visually memorize everything she saw.
"You are a Seeker!" It was a statement not a question.
"Yes." Serrca continued to survey her surroundings.
"You are very young." Corinth stared at the small form.
That caught Serrca's attention. She puffed with indignation. "Yes but I am the best and there is no other such as I."
"But young.' Corinth chuckled but groaned soon after, even that hurt.
"As are you Guardian!" Serrca shot.
"So you know. Did my grandfather tell you?" he asked, trying to sit up.
"Lie still.or you'll disturb my peace!" Serrca commanded. "No your grandfather did [I]not[/I] tell me. I am a Seeker. I saw the Scarrans' interrogation of you." Serrca informed, beginning to dissipate from the room.
In that moment Corinth caught a vision of a much older Serrca. "Wait! Where are you going?" He watched her form solidify again.
"I told you, I must locate the coordinates for this base. Why do you distract me? I will be fine; do not worry. The Scarrans cannot see me nor are they evolved enough to sense my thoughts, but I can read theirs!" Serrca smiled at the handsome boy. "When next we meet Officer Lazzar, you will be among family and friends!" With these last words she vanished, leaving Corinth cold and in pain, but with a strong sense of well-being. "Good luck my little angel."
Serrca made easy work of finding the Scarran Command Center. She watched navigation and memorized all she saw. Upon ending the Realm Sleep, returning to her body and waking she described all that had taken place to the Admirals. They immediately launched a recon mission with fifteen of Sebacea-Tran's most highly skilled Juccari assassins including the two Admirals. It took exactly two solar days to successfully retrieve Corinth Lazzar and destroy the Scarran base, leaving no trace of their presence. Corinth was badly injured but he was alive!
Mirja awaited them in the medical unit. "Put him here." She gestured to an empty table. The moment they laid the boy upon the table, she began working over him. Her efforts went on for arns, but Corinth did not respond. She was finally forced to give in. Stepping back she shook her head sadly. "His injuries are too extensive, as quickly as I heal, I'm not putting a dent in the damage. They've mutilated his internal organs!"
A small wail came from the woman standing at Mirja side. "I'm sorry Jenna, I've exhausted my knowledge of the healing arts and I can't help him. I'm so sorry my sister."
Jenna stared down at her grandson, not ready to believe that he would die. She knew that her best friend had tried her best and if Sebacea-Tran's most knowledgeable healer could not save her grandchild none could.
"Grandmother may I try?" Ahni's small voice broke through the silence. "I have rested and I feel better now."
Mirja glanced down at her small granddaughter and knew without a doubt that Serrca could succeed where she had failed. Only for Maxus and Jenna would she even consider allowing the child to attempt the healing ritual so soon after a Realm Sleep. "Yes, if you are sure you have replenished the energy you lost during the Realm Sleep. If you haven't, the energy it will take to heal Corinth will kill you Ahni."
"I am sure! I can heal him and live to do so again if necessary!" Ahni smiled at her grandmother and ran to draw a heavy chair to the table. Reynar and Maxus entered just in time to help the child move the piece of furniture and climb up onto it. The chair gave Ahni the height she needed to stand over Corinth's inert body. She placed her small hands, flat on Corinth's chest and stomach. It was a matter of microts before the two bodies began to glow with a healing light. Ahni left her body and entered Corinth's through the stream of energy she directed from her being. She searched each cell of his body, meticulously knitting the rips and ravages that the Scarran torture had left behind. Serrca made sure she healed even the smallest of scratches, before leaving it. Once she'd finished, she cooled his overheated body and returned to her own. Collapsing into Maxus' arms, she whispered. "He'll be fine now," Then she promptly lost consciousness.
Maxus cradled the fragile, unconscious child. He watched his grandson fight his way back to consciousness. For just a moment Maxus tightened his hold on the little girl. "Serrca Ahni Sun, you were named appropriately, for the favored one, you truly are." He kissed the plump, petal soft cheek before handing her over to her grandfather. "Thank you my friend, I owe you a debt that I will spend a lifetime repaying."
"We owe you all!" Jenna added, hugging her grandson. She couldn't stop touching, couldn't believe he was there and whole again.
Reynar and Mirja spoke in unison. "You owe us nothing."
"We are friends, Brothers in Arms and Sisters in Council. You would do the same, were the situations reversed and Ahni needed Corinth's help." Reynar smiled at his old friends. "Spend time with your grandson, we will speak later." He turned to leave carrying his unconscious grandchild. Mirja followed, praying that her grandchild had enough energy to recover.
"Thank you grandfather." Corinth began to realize where he was. "Well frell me, she did it."
Maxus watched his grandson sit up with the help of his grandmother. " You were very brave my son, High Command will be proud."
Corinth glanced around the Medical Unit, searching. "Where is she?"
"Who Corinth?" Jenna asked, brushing the long black curls from Corinth's eyes.
"My little angel. Where is she?" Corinth asked his grandparents. "She said that she would save me and she did, frell!"
Smiling Maxus helped Corinth lie back down. "You will see her later. You must rest."
Later wouldn't come for ten cycles. Ahni remained unconscious throughout the return voyage and Corinth was confined to the Medical Unit. Upon returning to his regiment, Corinth was decorated with honors and promoted. Serrca experienced the same. It became apparent to both Special Ops and High Command, that Serrca was more than ready to begin her career training as a Juccari Assassin.
TEN CYCLES LATER
High Command.
"Your granddaughter excels at all we challenge her with, Admiral Sun." Captain Lazzar offered, watching his grandfather pin lieutenant's bars on Officer Serrca Ahni Sun.
"Yes she does. She and her sister are following diligently in their parent's footsteps." Reynar glanced down the High Command's table to his son and daughter-in-law. Captain Camroha Sun and Commander Laran Sun were both very proud of their daughters' accomplishments, but never showed the girls any affection. Whether in public or private, the two kept a cool distance from their children. Camroha had been raised in love, how could he treat his daughters so? Reynar shook his head clear of the thoughts." What of you young Corinth? You too have accomplished much in a very short period of time."
"Yes and more yet to accomplish." Corinth still watched the young girl, who was now seated with her comrades. He noticed how happy and proud she seemed as her sister was presented with her own set of lieutenant's bars. Corinth had also noticed that Phaedra Sun had not clapped or stood for her sister as she was promoted. "Sir?'
"Yes?" Reynar watched his eldest granddaughter receive her bars and return to her seat ignoring her sister's outstretched hand. "Yes Captain?"
"Is there strife between your granddaughters?" Corinth asked, still watching Serrca.
"Only in Phaedra's mind. She begrudges her younger sister all except the air she breaths." Reynar admitted. He was suddenly aware of Corinth's interest in his granddaughter. He leaned over to speak into Corinth's ear. "Would you like to meet her?"
"What.who.oh yes.sir. I would be honored." Corinth could barely find the words. "I never did get the chance to thank her for saving my life and healing my wounds."
"She knows how grateful you are. Your grandfather makes sure, every chance he gets!" Reynar laughed. "But tell me, is this the only reason you have for wanting to meet her?" Reynar smiled knowingly.
Corinth cleared his throat. There was no use denying that he found Lieutenant Sun attractive. "Well sir, she is quite a beautiful young lady."
"Hmmm, yes she resembles her grandmother strongly. Mirja is still a great beauty. Come lad, let's go over and I'll introduce you."
The two walked toward Serrca's table. Halfway to their destination, they were distracted by Reynar's eldest granddaughter. "Admiral Sun, Captain Lazzar hello." Phaedra's husky voice seemed even deeper as she addressed Corinth.
"Hello Lieutenant Sun, congratulations on your promotion." Corinth stared down at the beautiful female. Phaedra Sun was by all descriptions an incredibly beautiful woman, but she lacked the bountiful curves that enhanced her younger sister's tall frame. Phaedra also lacked the warmth that her sister and grandparents exuded.
"Thank you sir. I am honored to meet you Captain." Phaedra had never seen a man so handsome. Corinth Lazzar's tall muscular body was unlike anything she could have ever imagined. Staring at the handsome Captain, Phaedra had two thoughts in mind, recreating and possibly mating. If she had to breed, why not choose this man, after all she was twenty cycles. Phaedra Sun had her pick of Officers. She had recently settled on Talyn Lyzack that was until Corinth Lazzar had arrived. Now he was her number one choice, a few arns in her company and he'd be at her feet like all the rest. "May I show you around the base sir?"
Admiral Sun answered instead. "Not right now Phaedra. I want to introduce Captain Lazzar to a few other officers."
"Please grandfather, I'm called Xhalax now." Phaedra answered. She'd ceased using her given name when she'd been inducted into the Search and Retrieval sect, deciding to use her middle name instead.
"Yes.yes.I know but you will always be Phaedra to me." Reynar retorted. He realized in that moment, that Phaedra Xhalax Sun was one hundred percent Peacekeeper. He also realized that he might have lost her completely. "You may speak with Captain Lazzar later if it is his wish." The two men moved on towards Ahni's table.
Officer Helena Balteck nudged her friend and commanding officer. "He's coming over."
Ahni frowned slightly. "Who? Who's coming over?"
"That Captain, the one who's been staring at you all night. Your grandfather is bringing him over! Oh is he grand.." Helena sighed.
"That's enough Officer." Ahni turned just as her grandfather arrived. "Attention!" she commanded her unit. "Good evening Admiral sir, Captain sir!" the unit saluted both men.
"At ease all of you and congratulations on an assignment well done. You are all just what High Command takes pride in." Reynar spoke to the entire group.
"I agree. Congratulation. You represent the best of the Peacekeepers." Corinth added.
"Please enjoy yourselves in the Tago Lounge, I will make sure that they know I am paying." Reynar dismissed the group of young officers. Smiling at their whoops of joy. He delayed his granddaughter. "Stay a moment."
"Yes sir!" Ahni obeyed instantly.
"At ease Lieutenant. Let us move to a more private corner." Reynar insisted.
Ahni glanced around discreetly as she complied. "Yes sir."
"Do not worry Ahni, no one is listening." Reynar was more than aware of his granddaughters struggle to prove herself as an individual and not as the granddaughter of one High Command's Admirals. It had not been easy for either girl. Phaedra's road had been just as rocky. "Come." Reynar led the two to another room. Corinth followed Ahni, placing his hand on her lower back to gently guide her. The gestured did not go unnoticed.
Once they'd reached the secluded Observation deck, Reynar spoke. "Well done Ahni, I'm very proud of you." Reynar gathered his granddaughter into his arms. "I would like to reacquaint you with Captain Corinth Lazzar. Captain Lazzar, this is my granddaughter Lieutenant Serrca Ahni Sun, the pride of the Juccari."
"Grandfather please." Ahni blushed slightly and turned toward Corinth. "Hello Captain Lazzar, it's good to see you again."
"You also. A Juccari assassin and a Lieutenant, you are very young to have accomplished so much." Corinth smiled down at the young lieutenant.
"Yes but I am the best. There is no other such as I!" Ahni repeated the same words she'd spoken almost ten cycles before.
"But you are still young to have accomplished so much. Your sister received her lieutenant's bars but she is twenty-one cycles old, you are only sixteen cycles, as I said very young." He smiled.
"As are you Guardian, or have you given up your gift's in pursuit of Captain's bars?" Ahni could tease just as well. "To think a Guardian and Captain of the Solaris unit.
Reynar glanced from Corinth to Ahni and smiled knowingly. "I think I'll leave you two to get reacquainted and invite my old friend Maxus for a drink." Reynar had much to discuss with his old friend. He went back to the banquet hall, leaving the two alone on the observation deck.
Corinth waited until Reynar had departed before speaking again. "I've watched you rise through the ranks Ahni." He deliberately used the name her family and friends used. "I remember a beautiful child who not only had the courage to find me, but also the will to heal me. I owe you my life Serrca Ahni Sun.thank you." He bent forward and laid a gentle kiss on her forehead.
"You owe me nothing. Our families are banded in brotherhood. I am a Seeker, it was my calling, but you are most welcome." Ahni smiled up at Corinth.
Corinth couldn't help staring, he couldn't remember meeting a more perfect woman. He needed to stop his train of thought. "Will you be competing in the tournament at the end of the weeken?"
"Yes, I fear however that my greatest opponent will be a familiar one." Ahni responded. She was excited about the upcoming Officers' Battle, the one dimming factor, her sister. Like Ahni, Phaedra had ranked first in her division for the past seven cycles. Now the two would meet each other on the field and Phaedra's habit of winning at all cost was a constant pull on Ahni's nerves.
Corinth stared into Ahni's eyes for a moment. "Is the thought of competing against Phaedra so disconcerting?"
Ahni gasped slightly. "So you haven't given up your gifts, Guardian. You read my thoughts exactly." She smiled slightly. "Yes and no. Sometimes I would like to just wipe that smug little grin off of her face and then I remember that she's my sister."
"So you are confident that you can beat her?" Corinth asked. He'd seen the rankings among the younger officers and knew that from her standings, Ahni was more than a match for any opponent, including her sister.
"Yes! As I said before, there is no other such as I." Ahni giggled, destroying the stoic appearance she was trying to maintain. What was it about this man, that made her breath shallow, her pulse leap and made her giggle? She never giggled.
Her amusement was contagious. Corinth smiled also remembering those very words, spoken so long ago. Corinth reached out slowly to run his fingers across her cheek.
Ahni remained still, she'd never been touched by a male outside of her family, but she instinctively knew the difference and she wanted more than just a fleeting touch. She knew that would not happen as long as she remained on "Breeding Restriction". Per High Command she was not allowed to recreate without permission any deviation would mean demotion and she'd worked to hard to attain the level she had. But just one kiss.just a little taste. Who would know?
Corinth read the innocent desire and invitation in her eyes. Just one taste of those beautiful lips, what could it hurt? Corinth leaned forward to capture her lips, but he was never allowed to complete the action.
"Lieutenant Sun!" Phaedra Sun's voice sliced through the comfortable silence, like a bucket of cold water, causing both Corinth and Ahni to part suddenly.
Ahni jerked her head out of Corinth hands and turned to acknowledge her sister's presence. "What is it Phaedra?" she deliberately used her sister's name instead of ranking title, knowing this would aggravate Phaedra further.
Before Phaedra could snap out any response, Corinth's cold sharp words hit her. "Lieutenant! Is there any particular reason you would interrupt a superior officer without a request to do so?"
Phaedra immediately snapped to attention. "Sir! I'm sorry sir, but I wanted to have a private word with my sister. I didn't realize you were still in here. I assumed you'd left with my grandfather sir!"
"Your greeting in no way seemed sisterly to me." Corinth's voice dropped an octave.
Phaedra searched for the right words. "I know sir but by the time I'd reached the room, the two of you were in a very compromising position and Serrca was trying to kiss you. I know that she is on "Breeding Restriction" and didn't want either of you to endanger your positions within High Command." That sounded plausible, she hoped.
Corinth stared into Phaedra's eyes, eyes so like Serrca's but much colder. This woman wanted nothing but her sister's downfall; he would have to speak with their grandfather. "I see, well just to make sure the facts are correct. Lieutenant Sun wasn't trying to kiss me." He glanced down into Ahni's flushed face. "I was trying to kiss her, that is until you so boldly interrupted."
Serrca glanced from one to the other. She had to put a stop to this confrontation before Phaedra stepped too far out of line. "Phaedra please! What did you wish to speak to me about?"
Phaedra's eyes quickly zeroed in on her sister, her gaze full of distaste. "Why do you insist on calling me that? Sometimes you're so full of dren!"
Serrca refused to be drawn into an argument. She merely smiled. "Because sister dear, it is your name. Just because you have chosen your second name over your given, does not mean that your family will comply. To the Peacekeepers you may be Xhalax but to us you will always be Phaedra."
"Frell you! You're as stubborn as grandfather. What I wanted is of little consequence now. You would do well to watch yourself little sister. You know very well that High Command will not tolerate disobedience and it would be such a shame if they thought that you were breaking the rules."
"I wonder why they would think that, hmm?" Serrca's gaze, unnoticed by Corinth, turned deadly for a mere second causing Phaedra to remember exactly what her sister was, she draw back a small step. As quickly as the cold look appeared, it vanished. "Thank you for the warning." She turned to address Corinth. "If you would excuse me sir?"
Corinth fought against the desire to order Phaedra out of the room and take Serrca into his arms. "You are dismissed lieutenant, I'm sure we will meet at the games."
Serrca nodded and walked away, whispering to her sister. "Good bye Xhalax, I'll see you at the games as well!" She slipped quietly from the room, leaving the two alone.
Corinth waited a moment before turning his attention to Phaedra. "Now lieutenant, why don't you tell me why you really followed us here?"
Phaedra gave up all pretenses and answered truthfully. "I came to see you."
"Why?"
"Well, I know that you are only here for a short visit and I also know that you have not recreated since you arrived."
"I would ask how you know that, but on second thought I won't bother." He smiled slightly and continued. "So realizing that I haven't recreated in almost fourteen solar days, you decided to offer yourself, or should I say your services?"
"Well yes, I am after all a very healthy woman." Phaedra ran her hand lightly up Corinth's arm. "And you are after all a very healthy man."
Corinth couldn't help noticing that while her aggressive attitude was annoying, she was indeed quite desirable and any other time prior to this one he would not have hesitated to take her. However he was after a different kind of prey this time. "Your offer is quite a delectable one but I must decline the pleasure." He drew his arm away.
"Come now, you and I both know you need this. High Command understands the needs of its troops." Her voice was soft and compelling. She wanted this man and she would do her best to get him. "You just admitted trying to kiss my little sister."
"I may very well need to recreate, but it will not be with you I'm afraid."
Phaedra's eyes narrowed, she hadn't missed the emphasis on you. "Why not? I'm well placed within the Peacekeeper. You know my grandfather. I'm a woman grown with experience.." She paused a realization suddenly coming to her mind. "Ahhh. that is unless you prefer my inexperienced little sister."
Corinth shook his head at her show of temper "You've called her that at least twice in my presence. Considering she's at least three inches taller than you, she is hardly little. Corinth knew he was adding fuel to Phaedra's anger and widening the gap between sisters, but he couldn't stop himself.
Phaedra's faces redden in anger. "She's a child of sixteen cycles!" she hissed. How dare he compare her to that brat!
"No she's not. She's a very desirable woman of sixteen cycles. If I'm not mistaken, she'll be seventeen cycles in less than six monens. Face it Phaedra, your sister is far from a child. She's a woman just as you were at sixteen cycles, and just as all Sebacean females are at sixteen cycles!"
Phaedra's body stiffened in rage. "Serrca may be a woman of sixteen cycles but consider this, she's also on the restricted list and you nor any other man can touch hr! It would be just horrible, if High Command thought she and a fellow soldier were breaching that restriction."
Corinth had finally had enough of Phaedra's tantrums; he grasped her arm roughly. "Is that some sort of threat Lieutenant Sun? Tell me my sweet, just who is it against? Me or your sister?" he questioned softly.
Phaedra winced at the pain but ignored it and the silent threat in Corinth's voice. "Not a threat, a promise of future events! Serrca is restricted and not even you can have her, Captain Lazzar! She will not be removed until High Command orders it! Meaning you are under the same rules as the rest of the male Peacekeeper population with the same penalties if that restriction is breached!"
Corinth released her suddenly, watching her stumble for balance. "You should spend more time worrying about your own future within the Peacekeeper ranks, instead of thinking of ways to sabotage your sister's." He wasn't done with her yet. "Listen very well Lieutenant. I don't like threats. Especially threats from a newly pinned Officer with absolutely no power whatsoever. If I were you I'd be very careful. Pray I don't make a few threats myself, because they would be well outside of High Command's penalties and I do have the power to see them through and your grandfather would be powerless to stop me."
Phaedra stared at him. She'd lost this round, but only because her opponent was more ruthless then she. Corinth was not the usual Peacekeeper male, who could be led by the mivonks. She had to regroup and use a new strategy. She turned and left abruptly.
Corinth watched Phaedra storm out. "That one is definitely trouble." Shaking his head, he left the room in search of the two men who could help him. For all of her nonsense, the little trelk was right! Only High Command could remove Serrca from 'Restriction'. Peacekeeper High Command wanted him to breed; well they would give him his choice of mates. Serrca Ahni Sun was his choice and High Command would see to it that he got her!
TO BE CONTINUED.
"An Old Beginning"
INTERROGATION ROOM
The room had the look of a Peacekeeper interrogation chamber, with an Aurora Chair sitting dead center. Most Aurora Chairs had a small circular view screen attached. The view screen for this chair however was neither small nor was it attached to the chair. The viewer, a very large rectangular flat monitor was attached to the wall opposite the chair. Corinth explained. "This room is usually used by the Council when an enemy is captured, they are brought here. The larger screen accommodates multiple pairs of eyes, as you will find out."
"So you are no better than the Peacekeepers!" D'Argo snarled. "Using the same torture devices."
"Don't be naïve, Luxan! Do you think we survive out here on our own perfect manners? No! We survive because when it comes to our enemies we [I]are[/I] ruthless!" Corinth snapped in return, his nerves already taut at the thought of the pain Serrca was soon to endure.
"But you have Seekers. Why not use their powers or abilities or whatever you call it." Crichton asked. Disgust flavored every word he spoke.
"You do realize that all Seekers are female? Why should we use our women that way? Every time one of the Seekers uses their gift to interrogate an enemy, their body literally absorbs the poison of any malicious feelings or thoughts, so imagine the poison of hatred that our enemies must have for us. In the beginning we did use our Seekers but they began falling ill even dying occasionally. We decided to use the Aurora Chair. We use it on our enemies, not on each other. Therefore we are [I]nothing[/I] like the Peacekeepers!"
Serrca spoke quietly. "Corinth is right, Peacekeepers would have imprisoned you or worse killed you. We saved you."
"Yeah, because of Aeryn." Chiana's voice cracked with emotions.
"In spite of her, actually." Serrca admitted. "We could have gotten Aeryn anytime during your capture and left the rest of you but the Council wanted you all for various reasons."
"Reasons we still have yet to be told of." D'Argo added.
"They will tell you in their own time." Serrca allowed Corinth to strap her hands to the chair.
"When will that be?" Chiana asked.
Aeryn stared at Serrca for a moment then spoke. "When they are sure of our loyalties and John's abilities." Aeryn surprised everyone with her response. "They want to know just how much John knows about maneuvering the wormholes."
"Very good Aeryn." Serrca whispered, letting her head fall back against the head support of the chair.
Crichton leaned over to Aeryn. "How did you know that?"
Aeryn looked confused for a moment. "I don't know. The images were just there in my head all of a sudden."
"Yeah, but how?"
"Aeryn was born of a Seeker and a Guardian, fully trained her abilities are stronger than either her mother's or mine. The longer she stays near her mother and me, the stronger her gifts become. Because of her physical contact with Serrca on Suddath's Command Carrier, she is able to receive images and thoughts from all of those she desires."
"You mean she's like some sort of radar?" Crichton asked.
"Something like that." Corinth smiled.
D'Argo spoke up. "What does the Council want with the wormhole information?"
Corinth waved D'Argo's question away. "All of your questions will be answered in time and by the Council itself. Now however, we have something else to accomplish." Corinth leaned down to speak softly to Serrca. "Are you sure about this?"
"Yes." Came the steady response.
"Alright then let us begin. " Corinth moved to stand behind the chair's control panel. He pressed a series of buttons necessary to start the chair. Every head turned toward the screen, every head except Aeryn's; her first glance was at Serrca. She watched as Serrca's body slammed against restraints of the chair and tears began to stream from her eyes. She barely heard Serrca's tortured words.
"Watch your beginning and then tell me if you were loved and wanted Aeryn Sun." Aeryn turned toward the screen in time to catch sight of a beautiful raven-haired child.
THE BEGINNING
The child's screams woke the entire household. Her nurse was the first to reach her. "Little Ahni, what is the matter?"
Ahni reached out with small thin arms for the comfort that only her nurse and grandparents ever gave. "I saw him again! The boy! They're hurting him.we have to save him Treya!"
Treya stared at her young charge; Serrca Ahni Sun was the youngest third year cadet in Peacekeeper history. She was barely six cycles and already training with students three to five cycles older than herself. While the child's intelligence and skills were the pride of the Peacekeeper, her gifts as a Seeker were the joy of Sebacea-Tran. "Sweetling you know what your father told you about the night visions, you are not allowed to use them outside of Peacekeeper Command."
Admiral Reynar Sun entered his youngest grandchild's bedroom in time to hear Treya's words. "She can not help the call of the night visions." He reached down to remove the delicate child from her nurse's lap, and then settled her into the cradle of his arms. He truly love this beautiful child, she was always so full of life, goodness and affection. He and her grandmother couldn't help spoiling her. They had tried with her sister Phaedra but once Ahni was born, Phaedra became bitterer with each passing cycle. She begrudged her sister the smallest affection and became unresponsive when Serrca's Seeking abilities began to develop. Because of his rank and that of his mate, Mirja, they were allowed to have their granddaughters three times a cycle; this arrangement no longer worked. Reynar knew it was a matter of time before he lost Phaedra completely; she was intent on becoming the perfect Peacekeeper that her parents had become.
"Sir I'm sorry if Ahni disturbed you, I will settle her." Treya didn't want the Admiral to think that she was deficient in her abilities to care for the child. The Sun family was one of the most powerful families on Sebacea- Tran and in High Command. To be dismissed from their employ would mean exile. Ahni's father, Captain Camroha Sun, had already threatened her with dismissal.
Reynar waved Treya away. "It's alright you may go to your rest Treya, I will settle this little Bhanta bug." His wiggling fingers causing Ahni to giggle.
Ahni turned to watch Treya leave. "Don't worry Treya, grandfather won't let Father punish you." She turned back to stare up into her grandfather's eyes. "Will you?"
"No Sweetling." He spoke to the nervous little nurse. "Do not worry Treya, now seek your bed."
"Thank you sir." Treya sighed in relief and bowed out of the room. Closing the door. "Now tell me about this [I]night vision[/I]." Reynar always took Ahni's visions seriously. Since she'd begun her training, her visions were becoming more detailed.
"I saw him again." Ahni burrowed deeper into her grandfather's embrace.
"Who child? Whom did you see?" her leaned in closer for her answer.
"The Lazzar boy." The child whispered, still afraid of what her visions had revealed.
"The Lazzar boy?" Reynar's confusion registered a moment before realization ht. "Do you mean Admiral Lazzar's grandson?"
The child shook her head emphatically, happy that finally someone understood this vision and believed her. She had been plagued with the same vision for over half a cycle, a vision no one cared to understand. "They're hurting him!"
"Who?" Reynar held his breath. Could this child, his own granddaughter know the actual whereabouts of Corinth Lazzar? Corinth Lazzar, grandson of one of the most powerful men in High Command, had been missing for over a half cycle. The boy had disappeared while out on maneuvers with his unit. No word had come from his captors, leaving his family and the Peacekeeper High Command to believe that the boy was dead.
"The Scarrans, they have him! They want him to mold time for them. So that they can arrive through the portal in earlier times and surprise the Peacekeepers!" Ahni described her vision in great detail. When she was done, her grandfather carried her to bed, tucking her in with a kiss. "Ahni, I have to tell Corinth's grandfather. He may need your help."
"I will help grandfather." Ahni closed her eyes, yawned and with the innocents of youth rolled over onto her stomach and fell promptly to sleep.
TWO SOLAR DAYS LATER
"Are you sure that the child saw him Reynar?" Admiral Maxus Lazzar paced the grand chamber of his best friends home. He'd received the message while out searching and had rushed to his friend for more information.
"Yes my friend according to Serrca, she has been having this vision for half a cycle, but that none of her instructors were interested. She was even punished a couple of times for telling their superiors, who still ignored her." Reynar's voice dropped. "Serrca is ready to Seek."
Maxus whirled around to face his longtime friend and brother in arms. The two had been friends since they had begun their Peacekeeper training. Both men had risen through the ranks at a speed unmatched by any other that is until their grandchildren had begun their own training. "She will give me the names of those who ignored and punished her, they will answer to me!" Maxus shook his head. "I should have known that the Scarrans were behind this."
As Ahni was favored by her grandparents, so to was Corinth by his. Maxus would stop at nothing to get his grandson back. With the help of Admiral Sun and his granddaughter-Sebacea's most promising Seeker, he would succeed. "We must leave soon. I pray my grandson is still alive!" Maxus stopped, thinking of the danger that the child would face. "Has Ahni ever attempted to journey into the Realm Sleep?"
"Only in training, this will be her first attempt in the field. Did you bring some of Corinth's personal effects?" Reynar asked. He was also worried about his young granddaughter.
"Yes, they are still on the ship. How soon will she be ready for travel?'
A small but confident voice answered. "I'm ready now sir!" The two men turned to face the delicately, beautiful, raven-haired child. She stood at full attention in the presence of the Admirals, in full Peacekeeper dress. Her grandmother stood behind her.
"I have chosen to accompany her." Mirja raised her chin slightly, daring her husband to defy her, which he promptly did.
"Mirja, I forbid it!" He was already allowing his beloved granddaughter to enter Scarran Space.
"Ha! Forbid, I think not! Do not bother to argue. Serrca submitted a formal request a solar day ago and the Council has agreed. The Peacekeepers have no say!" Mirja stared at her husband with a quick little smile. "This is Serrca's first time out in the field as a Seeker. I will be able to guide her through the Realm Sleep. It is unfortunate that I can not share in her vision, I would be able to perform the ritual myself."
"The Peacekeepers have more of a say than you realize." Reynar glanced down at his granddaughter's stormy expression. He was going to loose this battle. With a sigh he gave in. "Fine, since it appears that we are all ready to travel, let us leave."
UNCHARTED TERRITORIES
Serrca moved through the swirling tunnel that bridged realities and allowed her to be in two places at one time. While her physical body remained on the Admiral's Marauder, her incorporeal form traveled effortlessly through time seeking the temporal signature of Corinth Lazzar. Once she located his signature she entered the portal that open into his reality. She walked from the tunnel into a small cell where a young man of seventeen cycles lay. The young man moaned softly and turned to face Serrca. "Who the frell are you?"
Serrca was surprised that Corinth could even see her. "You can see me?" Unless she chose to reveal her presence while in her incorporeal form, most could not see or detect her.
"Yes.who are you?" Corinth gasped; his entire body ached.
"My name is Serrca Ahni Sun. I'm here to help you. I have to find the coordinates for this base and inform our grandfathers." Serrca answered, allowing her mind and eyes to visually memorize everything she saw.
"You are a Seeker!" It was a statement not a question.
"Yes." Serrca continued to survey her surroundings.
"You are very young." Corinth stared at the small form.
That caught Serrca's attention. She puffed with indignation. "Yes but I am the best and there is no other such as I."
"But young.' Corinth chuckled but groaned soon after, even that hurt.
"As are you Guardian!" Serrca shot.
"So you know. Did my grandfather tell you?" he asked, trying to sit up.
"Lie still.or you'll disturb my peace!" Serrca commanded. "No your grandfather did [I]not[/I] tell me. I am a Seeker. I saw the Scarrans' interrogation of you." Serrca informed, beginning to dissipate from the room.
In that moment Corinth caught a vision of a much older Serrca. "Wait! Where are you going?" He watched her form solidify again.
"I told you, I must locate the coordinates for this base. Why do you distract me? I will be fine; do not worry. The Scarrans cannot see me nor are they evolved enough to sense my thoughts, but I can read theirs!" Serrca smiled at the handsome boy. "When next we meet Officer Lazzar, you will be among family and friends!" With these last words she vanished, leaving Corinth cold and in pain, but with a strong sense of well-being. "Good luck my little angel."
Serrca made easy work of finding the Scarran Command Center. She watched navigation and memorized all she saw. Upon ending the Realm Sleep, returning to her body and waking she described all that had taken place to the Admirals. They immediately launched a recon mission with fifteen of Sebacea-Tran's most highly skilled Juccari assassins including the two Admirals. It took exactly two solar days to successfully retrieve Corinth Lazzar and destroy the Scarran base, leaving no trace of their presence. Corinth was badly injured but he was alive!
Mirja awaited them in the medical unit. "Put him here." She gestured to an empty table. The moment they laid the boy upon the table, she began working over him. Her efforts went on for arns, but Corinth did not respond. She was finally forced to give in. Stepping back she shook her head sadly. "His injuries are too extensive, as quickly as I heal, I'm not putting a dent in the damage. They've mutilated his internal organs!"
A small wail came from the woman standing at Mirja side. "I'm sorry Jenna, I've exhausted my knowledge of the healing arts and I can't help him. I'm so sorry my sister."
Jenna stared down at her grandson, not ready to believe that he would die. She knew that her best friend had tried her best and if Sebacea-Tran's most knowledgeable healer could not save her grandchild none could.
"Grandmother may I try?" Ahni's small voice broke through the silence. "I have rested and I feel better now."
Mirja glanced down at her small granddaughter and knew without a doubt that Serrca could succeed where she had failed. Only for Maxus and Jenna would she even consider allowing the child to attempt the healing ritual so soon after a Realm Sleep. "Yes, if you are sure you have replenished the energy you lost during the Realm Sleep. If you haven't, the energy it will take to heal Corinth will kill you Ahni."
"I am sure! I can heal him and live to do so again if necessary!" Ahni smiled at her grandmother and ran to draw a heavy chair to the table. Reynar and Maxus entered just in time to help the child move the piece of furniture and climb up onto it. The chair gave Ahni the height she needed to stand over Corinth's inert body. She placed her small hands, flat on Corinth's chest and stomach. It was a matter of microts before the two bodies began to glow with a healing light. Ahni left her body and entered Corinth's through the stream of energy she directed from her being. She searched each cell of his body, meticulously knitting the rips and ravages that the Scarran torture had left behind. Serrca made sure she healed even the smallest of scratches, before leaving it. Once she'd finished, she cooled his overheated body and returned to her own. Collapsing into Maxus' arms, she whispered. "He'll be fine now," Then she promptly lost consciousness.
Maxus cradled the fragile, unconscious child. He watched his grandson fight his way back to consciousness. For just a moment Maxus tightened his hold on the little girl. "Serrca Ahni Sun, you were named appropriately, for the favored one, you truly are." He kissed the plump, petal soft cheek before handing her over to her grandfather. "Thank you my friend, I owe you a debt that I will spend a lifetime repaying."
"We owe you all!" Jenna added, hugging her grandson. She couldn't stop touching, couldn't believe he was there and whole again.
Reynar and Mirja spoke in unison. "You owe us nothing."
"We are friends, Brothers in Arms and Sisters in Council. You would do the same, were the situations reversed and Ahni needed Corinth's help." Reynar smiled at his old friends. "Spend time with your grandson, we will speak later." He turned to leave carrying his unconscious grandchild. Mirja followed, praying that her grandchild had enough energy to recover.
"Thank you grandfather." Corinth began to realize where he was. "Well frell me, she did it."
Maxus watched his grandson sit up with the help of his grandmother. " You were very brave my son, High Command will be proud."
Corinth glanced around the Medical Unit, searching. "Where is she?"
"Who Corinth?" Jenna asked, brushing the long black curls from Corinth's eyes.
"My little angel. Where is she?" Corinth asked his grandparents. "She said that she would save me and she did, frell!"
Smiling Maxus helped Corinth lie back down. "You will see her later. You must rest."
Later wouldn't come for ten cycles. Ahni remained unconscious throughout the return voyage and Corinth was confined to the Medical Unit. Upon returning to his regiment, Corinth was decorated with honors and promoted. Serrca experienced the same. It became apparent to both Special Ops and High Command, that Serrca was more than ready to begin her career training as a Juccari Assassin.
TEN CYCLES LATER
High Command.
"Your granddaughter excels at all we challenge her with, Admiral Sun." Captain Lazzar offered, watching his grandfather pin lieutenant's bars on Officer Serrca Ahni Sun.
"Yes she does. She and her sister are following diligently in their parent's footsteps." Reynar glanced down the High Command's table to his son and daughter-in-law. Captain Camroha Sun and Commander Laran Sun were both very proud of their daughters' accomplishments, but never showed the girls any affection. Whether in public or private, the two kept a cool distance from their children. Camroha had been raised in love, how could he treat his daughters so? Reynar shook his head clear of the thoughts." What of you young Corinth? You too have accomplished much in a very short period of time."
"Yes and more yet to accomplish." Corinth still watched the young girl, who was now seated with her comrades. He noticed how happy and proud she seemed as her sister was presented with her own set of lieutenant's bars. Corinth had also noticed that Phaedra Sun had not clapped or stood for her sister as she was promoted. "Sir?'
"Yes?" Reynar watched his eldest granddaughter receive her bars and return to her seat ignoring her sister's outstretched hand. "Yes Captain?"
"Is there strife between your granddaughters?" Corinth asked, still watching Serrca.
"Only in Phaedra's mind. She begrudges her younger sister all except the air she breaths." Reynar admitted. He was suddenly aware of Corinth's interest in his granddaughter. He leaned over to speak into Corinth's ear. "Would you like to meet her?"
"What.who.oh yes.sir. I would be honored." Corinth could barely find the words. "I never did get the chance to thank her for saving my life and healing my wounds."
"She knows how grateful you are. Your grandfather makes sure, every chance he gets!" Reynar laughed. "But tell me, is this the only reason you have for wanting to meet her?" Reynar smiled knowingly.
Corinth cleared his throat. There was no use denying that he found Lieutenant Sun attractive. "Well sir, she is quite a beautiful young lady."
"Hmmm, yes she resembles her grandmother strongly. Mirja is still a great beauty. Come lad, let's go over and I'll introduce you."
The two walked toward Serrca's table. Halfway to their destination, they were distracted by Reynar's eldest granddaughter. "Admiral Sun, Captain Lazzar hello." Phaedra's husky voice seemed even deeper as she addressed Corinth.
"Hello Lieutenant Sun, congratulations on your promotion." Corinth stared down at the beautiful female. Phaedra Sun was by all descriptions an incredibly beautiful woman, but she lacked the bountiful curves that enhanced her younger sister's tall frame. Phaedra also lacked the warmth that her sister and grandparents exuded.
"Thank you sir. I am honored to meet you Captain." Phaedra had never seen a man so handsome. Corinth Lazzar's tall muscular body was unlike anything she could have ever imagined. Staring at the handsome Captain, Phaedra had two thoughts in mind, recreating and possibly mating. If she had to breed, why not choose this man, after all she was twenty cycles. Phaedra Sun had her pick of Officers. She had recently settled on Talyn Lyzack that was until Corinth Lazzar had arrived. Now he was her number one choice, a few arns in her company and he'd be at her feet like all the rest. "May I show you around the base sir?"
Admiral Sun answered instead. "Not right now Phaedra. I want to introduce Captain Lazzar to a few other officers."
"Please grandfather, I'm called Xhalax now." Phaedra answered. She'd ceased using her given name when she'd been inducted into the Search and Retrieval sect, deciding to use her middle name instead.
"Yes.yes.I know but you will always be Phaedra to me." Reynar retorted. He realized in that moment, that Phaedra Xhalax Sun was one hundred percent Peacekeeper. He also realized that he might have lost her completely. "You may speak with Captain Lazzar later if it is his wish." The two men moved on towards Ahni's table.
Officer Helena Balteck nudged her friend and commanding officer. "He's coming over."
Ahni frowned slightly. "Who? Who's coming over?"
"That Captain, the one who's been staring at you all night. Your grandfather is bringing him over! Oh is he grand.." Helena sighed.
"That's enough Officer." Ahni turned just as her grandfather arrived. "Attention!" she commanded her unit. "Good evening Admiral sir, Captain sir!" the unit saluted both men.
"At ease all of you and congratulations on an assignment well done. You are all just what High Command takes pride in." Reynar spoke to the entire group.
"I agree. Congratulation. You represent the best of the Peacekeepers." Corinth added.
"Please enjoy yourselves in the Tago Lounge, I will make sure that they know I am paying." Reynar dismissed the group of young officers. Smiling at their whoops of joy. He delayed his granddaughter. "Stay a moment."
"Yes sir!" Ahni obeyed instantly.
"At ease Lieutenant. Let us move to a more private corner." Reynar insisted.
Ahni glanced around discreetly as she complied. "Yes sir."
"Do not worry Ahni, no one is listening." Reynar was more than aware of his granddaughters struggle to prove herself as an individual and not as the granddaughter of one High Command's Admirals. It had not been easy for either girl. Phaedra's road had been just as rocky. "Come." Reynar led the two to another room. Corinth followed Ahni, placing his hand on her lower back to gently guide her. The gestured did not go unnoticed.
Once they'd reached the secluded Observation deck, Reynar spoke. "Well done Ahni, I'm very proud of you." Reynar gathered his granddaughter into his arms. "I would like to reacquaint you with Captain Corinth Lazzar. Captain Lazzar, this is my granddaughter Lieutenant Serrca Ahni Sun, the pride of the Juccari."
"Grandfather please." Ahni blushed slightly and turned toward Corinth. "Hello Captain Lazzar, it's good to see you again."
"You also. A Juccari assassin and a Lieutenant, you are very young to have accomplished so much." Corinth smiled down at the young lieutenant.
"Yes but I am the best. There is no other such as I!" Ahni repeated the same words she'd spoken almost ten cycles before.
"But you are still young to have accomplished so much. Your sister received her lieutenant's bars but she is twenty-one cycles old, you are only sixteen cycles, as I said very young." He smiled.
"As are you Guardian, or have you given up your gift's in pursuit of Captain's bars?" Ahni could tease just as well. "To think a Guardian and Captain of the Solaris unit.
Reynar glanced from Corinth to Ahni and smiled knowingly. "I think I'll leave you two to get reacquainted and invite my old friend Maxus for a drink." Reynar had much to discuss with his old friend. He went back to the banquet hall, leaving the two alone on the observation deck.
Corinth waited until Reynar had departed before speaking again. "I've watched you rise through the ranks Ahni." He deliberately used the name her family and friends used. "I remember a beautiful child who not only had the courage to find me, but also the will to heal me. I owe you my life Serrca Ahni Sun.thank you." He bent forward and laid a gentle kiss on her forehead.
"You owe me nothing. Our families are banded in brotherhood. I am a Seeker, it was my calling, but you are most welcome." Ahni smiled up at Corinth.
Corinth couldn't help staring, he couldn't remember meeting a more perfect woman. He needed to stop his train of thought. "Will you be competing in the tournament at the end of the weeken?"
"Yes, I fear however that my greatest opponent will be a familiar one." Ahni responded. She was excited about the upcoming Officers' Battle, the one dimming factor, her sister. Like Ahni, Phaedra had ranked first in her division for the past seven cycles. Now the two would meet each other on the field and Phaedra's habit of winning at all cost was a constant pull on Ahni's nerves.
Corinth stared into Ahni's eyes for a moment. "Is the thought of competing against Phaedra so disconcerting?"
Ahni gasped slightly. "So you haven't given up your gifts, Guardian. You read my thoughts exactly." She smiled slightly. "Yes and no. Sometimes I would like to just wipe that smug little grin off of her face and then I remember that she's my sister."
"So you are confident that you can beat her?" Corinth asked. He'd seen the rankings among the younger officers and knew that from her standings, Ahni was more than a match for any opponent, including her sister.
"Yes! As I said before, there is no other such as I." Ahni giggled, destroying the stoic appearance she was trying to maintain. What was it about this man, that made her breath shallow, her pulse leap and made her giggle? She never giggled.
Her amusement was contagious. Corinth smiled also remembering those very words, spoken so long ago. Corinth reached out slowly to run his fingers across her cheek.
Ahni remained still, she'd never been touched by a male outside of her family, but she instinctively knew the difference and she wanted more than just a fleeting touch. She knew that would not happen as long as she remained on "Breeding Restriction". Per High Command she was not allowed to recreate without permission any deviation would mean demotion and she'd worked to hard to attain the level she had. But just one kiss.just a little taste. Who would know?
Corinth read the innocent desire and invitation in her eyes. Just one taste of those beautiful lips, what could it hurt? Corinth leaned forward to capture her lips, but he was never allowed to complete the action.
"Lieutenant Sun!" Phaedra Sun's voice sliced through the comfortable silence, like a bucket of cold water, causing both Corinth and Ahni to part suddenly.
Ahni jerked her head out of Corinth hands and turned to acknowledge her sister's presence. "What is it Phaedra?" she deliberately used her sister's name instead of ranking title, knowing this would aggravate Phaedra further.
Before Phaedra could snap out any response, Corinth's cold sharp words hit her. "Lieutenant! Is there any particular reason you would interrupt a superior officer without a request to do so?"
Phaedra immediately snapped to attention. "Sir! I'm sorry sir, but I wanted to have a private word with my sister. I didn't realize you were still in here. I assumed you'd left with my grandfather sir!"
"Your greeting in no way seemed sisterly to me." Corinth's voice dropped an octave.
Phaedra searched for the right words. "I know sir but by the time I'd reached the room, the two of you were in a very compromising position and Serrca was trying to kiss you. I know that she is on "Breeding Restriction" and didn't want either of you to endanger your positions within High Command." That sounded plausible, she hoped.
Corinth stared into Phaedra's eyes, eyes so like Serrca's but much colder. This woman wanted nothing but her sister's downfall; he would have to speak with their grandfather. "I see, well just to make sure the facts are correct. Lieutenant Sun wasn't trying to kiss me." He glanced down into Ahni's flushed face. "I was trying to kiss her, that is until you so boldly interrupted."
Serrca glanced from one to the other. She had to put a stop to this confrontation before Phaedra stepped too far out of line. "Phaedra please! What did you wish to speak to me about?"
Phaedra's eyes quickly zeroed in on her sister, her gaze full of distaste. "Why do you insist on calling me that? Sometimes you're so full of dren!"
Serrca refused to be drawn into an argument. She merely smiled. "Because sister dear, it is your name. Just because you have chosen your second name over your given, does not mean that your family will comply. To the Peacekeepers you may be Xhalax but to us you will always be Phaedra."
"Frell you! You're as stubborn as grandfather. What I wanted is of little consequence now. You would do well to watch yourself little sister. You know very well that High Command will not tolerate disobedience and it would be such a shame if they thought that you were breaking the rules."
"I wonder why they would think that, hmm?" Serrca's gaze, unnoticed by Corinth, turned deadly for a mere second causing Phaedra to remember exactly what her sister was, she draw back a small step. As quickly as the cold look appeared, it vanished. "Thank you for the warning." She turned to address Corinth. "If you would excuse me sir?"
Corinth fought against the desire to order Phaedra out of the room and take Serrca into his arms. "You are dismissed lieutenant, I'm sure we will meet at the games."
Serrca nodded and walked away, whispering to her sister. "Good bye Xhalax, I'll see you at the games as well!" She slipped quietly from the room, leaving the two alone.
Corinth waited a moment before turning his attention to Phaedra. "Now lieutenant, why don't you tell me why you really followed us here?"
Phaedra gave up all pretenses and answered truthfully. "I came to see you."
"Why?"
"Well, I know that you are only here for a short visit and I also know that you have not recreated since you arrived."
"I would ask how you know that, but on second thought I won't bother." He smiled slightly and continued. "So realizing that I haven't recreated in almost fourteen solar days, you decided to offer yourself, or should I say your services?"
"Well yes, I am after all a very healthy woman." Phaedra ran her hand lightly up Corinth's arm. "And you are after all a very healthy man."
Corinth couldn't help noticing that while her aggressive attitude was annoying, she was indeed quite desirable and any other time prior to this one he would not have hesitated to take her. However he was after a different kind of prey this time. "Your offer is quite a delectable one but I must decline the pleasure." He drew his arm away.
"Come now, you and I both know you need this. High Command understands the needs of its troops." Her voice was soft and compelling. She wanted this man and she would do her best to get him. "You just admitted trying to kiss my little sister."
"I may very well need to recreate, but it will not be with you I'm afraid."
Phaedra's eyes narrowed, she hadn't missed the emphasis on you. "Why not? I'm well placed within the Peacekeeper. You know my grandfather. I'm a woman grown with experience.." She paused a realization suddenly coming to her mind. "Ahhh. that is unless you prefer my inexperienced little sister."
Corinth shook his head at her show of temper "You've called her that at least twice in my presence. Considering she's at least three inches taller than you, she is hardly little. Corinth knew he was adding fuel to Phaedra's anger and widening the gap between sisters, but he couldn't stop himself.
Phaedra's faces redden in anger. "She's a child of sixteen cycles!" she hissed. How dare he compare her to that brat!
"No she's not. She's a very desirable woman of sixteen cycles. If I'm not mistaken, she'll be seventeen cycles in less than six monens. Face it Phaedra, your sister is far from a child. She's a woman just as you were at sixteen cycles, and just as all Sebacean females are at sixteen cycles!"
Phaedra's body stiffened in rage. "Serrca may be a woman of sixteen cycles but consider this, she's also on the restricted list and you nor any other man can touch hr! It would be just horrible, if High Command thought she and a fellow soldier were breaching that restriction."
Corinth had finally had enough of Phaedra's tantrums; he grasped her arm roughly. "Is that some sort of threat Lieutenant Sun? Tell me my sweet, just who is it against? Me or your sister?" he questioned softly.
Phaedra winced at the pain but ignored it and the silent threat in Corinth's voice. "Not a threat, a promise of future events! Serrca is restricted and not even you can have her, Captain Lazzar! She will not be removed until High Command orders it! Meaning you are under the same rules as the rest of the male Peacekeeper population with the same penalties if that restriction is breached!"
Corinth released her suddenly, watching her stumble for balance. "You should spend more time worrying about your own future within the Peacekeeper ranks, instead of thinking of ways to sabotage your sister's." He wasn't done with her yet. "Listen very well Lieutenant. I don't like threats. Especially threats from a newly pinned Officer with absolutely no power whatsoever. If I were you I'd be very careful. Pray I don't make a few threats myself, because they would be well outside of High Command's penalties and I do have the power to see them through and your grandfather would be powerless to stop me."
Phaedra stared at him. She'd lost this round, but only because her opponent was more ruthless then she. Corinth was not the usual Peacekeeper male, who could be led by the mivonks. She had to regroup and use a new strategy. She turned and left abruptly.
Corinth watched Phaedra storm out. "That one is definitely trouble." Shaking his head, he left the room in search of the two men who could help him. For all of her nonsense, the little trelk was right! Only High Command could remove Serrca from 'Restriction'. Peacekeeper High Command wanted him to breed; well they would give him his choice of mates. Serrca Ahni Sun was his choice and High Command would see to it that he got her!
TO BE CONTINUED.